top of page

What Is Inclusive Design – and how can it benefit your business?

Writer's picture: inksplotdesignsinksplotdesigns

Inclusive design is a design approach that aims to create visual content and communication materials that are accessible and welcoming to a diverse range of people, including those with disabilities, different cultural backgrounds, and various cognitive abilities. It involves designing with empathy and consideration for the needs and preferences of a broad audience. Inclusive graphic design strives to remove barriers and ensure that everyone can access and understand the information or message conveyed through visuals, regardless of their individual characteristics or limitations.


Whilst typically referred to whilst designing and sourcing a physical product, inclusive design is also an important part of visual design; this can involve aspects like using clear typography, colour choices that accommodate colour blindness, providing alternative text for images, and adhering to accessibility standards to create more inclusive and equitable design solutions.


In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, companies that embrace inclusive design gain a competitive edge. Inclusive design goes beyond simply accommodating individuals with disabilities; it is a mindset that fosters innovation, broadens market reach, and enhances overall business success. In this blog post, we'll explore the numerous benefits of inclusive design for companies and why it should be a cornerstone of your business strategy.


1. Expanded Market Reach

One of the most significant advantages of inclusive design is the ability to reach a broader audience. By creating products, services, and experiences that cater to diverse needs, you open doors to customers who might have previously been excluded. This inclusivity extends not only to people with disabilities but also to various demographic groups, including different age ranges, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The more inclusive your offerings, the more potential consumers you can engage. This can only be a positive thing for businesses, as it widens your potential customer base.


2. Increased Customer Loyalty

Customers are increasingly choosing to support companies that align with their values. By demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity, your company can foster strong customer loyalty; people appreciate businesses that make a conscious effort to ensure that their products and services are accessible to all, and they are more likely to become repeat customers and brand advocates.


3. Competitive Advantage

In today's crowded marketplace, a commitment to inclusive design can set your company apart from competitors. It becomes a unique selling point and a powerful marketing tool. Inclusive design is not just a checkbox in societal responsibility; it's a competitive advantage that can help you win over customers, boost your reputation, and gain an edge in your industry.


4. Improved Product Quality

Inclusivity sparks innovation. When teams incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences, they generate fresh ideas and creative solutions. Embracing different viewpoints encourages out-of-the-box thinking and can lead to breakthrough innovations that would have remained undiscovered in a less diverse environment.


Incorporating accessibility and inclusivity early in the product development stage ensures a higher standard of quality. When companies prioritize inclusive design, they identify and rectify potential usability issues early in the design process, resulting in a smoother user experience for everyone. This not only reduces the risk of costly product recalls or updates but also bolsters your brand's reputation for delivering reliable and user-friendly solutions. Moreover, it shows that you value all your customers/clients and helps to build your business’ reputation as a responsible, aware business.


5. Regulatory Compliance

Legislation surrounding accessibility and inclusivity is becoming stricter and stricter. Adhering to these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a way to protect your brand from potential lawsuits and negative publicity.


Whilst I make no claim to be a regulatory expert, I can speak from experience and say that clients that are already thinking about inclusive design tend to be ahead of the game where regulations are concerned; in an effort to make their products/packaging/designs inclusive, they typically already meet criteria before it’s a requirement.


Conclusion

Inclusive design is not only a moral imperative but also a sound business strategy. It empowers companies to tap into new markets, foster innovation, improve product quality, stay ahead of regulations, build customer loyalty, and gain a competitive edge. By prioritizing inclusivity, your company can reap the benefits of a diverse and inclusive customer base while contributing to a more equitable and accessible world.


This is something that we are very passionate about at Inksplot Designs; we take every opportunity to educate our clients on the methods and techniques available to improve their graphic communications, products and packaging. Get in touch today to learn how we can apply this design method to your brand.

Related Posts

See All

Comentários


bottom of page