The Oxford English Dictionary states that disability is: “1. A physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities {and} 2. A disadvantage”. Whilst restricted mobility or complete blindness can often be identified by a persons behavioural patterns or assets – such as a guide dog, cane or wheelchair – so called invisible disabilities […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Chapter 1.2: Background Information – Inclusive Design
“(…) in an increasingly global marketplace, understanding and catering for difference is crucial to business success. The design challenge is to include and not exclude unknowingly.” Trying to understand any theory or concept, whether design related or not, it makes sense to start with its origins. The thoughts and considerations that form the backbone of inclusive design date back to the […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Chapter 1.3: Background Information – Laws & Regulation
There are numerous laws and regulations in place to protect and support people with disabilities. Both on a national and international level these frame works give consideration to ethical and moral obligations within society and enable an enforceable set of rules. Being aware of and understanding how to apply these rules and regulations is not only important to protect […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Chapter 2.1: A Need For Inclusivity – The World at Change
Looking at the global picture, the worlds overall population is facing a projected growth of up to a total of 9,1 billion inhabitants by the year 2050. More than half of the overall growth will stem from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Congo, Bangladesh, Uganda, the USA, Ethiopia and China combined. Within Europe the situation is very different – the overall population […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Chapter 2.2: A Need For Inclusivity – Market Revolution
Looking at the previous findings in demographic structure and change, adapting to the new and emerging market of the elderly is not only a key element for future success but also a social and moral obligation – if not for others, at least for our future selves. “Older users are us – If you are over 50, you […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Chapter 3: The Current Situation
Statistics show that almost every fifth person travelling within Europe could use help navigating or communicating. After establishing all relevant background information, collecting first hand research and actually testing existing airport environments was the next logical step. To find a valid conclusion to the initial research question the analysis was carried out in terms of usability and accessibility for the visually […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Conclusion
When using the product Airport it is the navigational system and strategy in place that enables the user to successfully journey from the booking process through check-in, security and departure to the actual boarding. Failing to provide a logical and clear combination of signage and information design will result in a negative user experience, errors during the travel process and […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Appendix 1: The Social Model of Disability
“Words are critical in shaping ideas, perceptions and attitudes.” The written and spoken word is one of the most important tools of communication. Its use can shape social behaviour and viewpoints to a drastic extend. Considering the language used to describe ethnic groups and social differences, it is a fact that terms commonly used only one or two generations […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Appendix 2: The Mechanics of Vision
What we describe as visual perception is the ability to interpret visible light that reaches the eye. The result is what we know as sight or vision. When entering the eye the light passes through the Cornea and is refracted – its speed is changed in order to change the direction of its waves. After that it carries on through […]
Inclusive Airport Navigation – Appendix 3: Visual Impairments
The most common visual impairments and their symptoms or effects include: 1 Astigmatism – Distorted or blurred representation of objects at any distance caused by an imbalance in the cornea curve. Usually correctable by glasses or contact lenses. Cataracts – Blurred vision similar to the view through a steamed window. Results from the clouding of the lens of the eye. Cataracts […]