This book presents a guide to the concept of universal design, the design of products and environments to be usable to the greatest extent possible by people of all ages and abilities/disabilities. Chapters 1 and 2 present a brief history of universal design and examine the spectrum of human abilities. Chapter 3 addresses the seven principles of universal design: (1) equitable use; (2) flexibility in use; (3) simple and intuitive use; (4) perceptible information; (5) tolerance for error; (6) low physical effort; and (7) size and space for approach and use. Chapter 4 offers case studies to illustrate each of the seven principles including: (1) promoting equality while preserving history at the University of Virginia; (2) consideration by the Fiskars company of various customer ages and abilities in design of tools such as scissors; (3) the IKEA company's commitment to simplicity in product assembly; (4) designing for the senses at the Lighthouse, Inc.; (5) McKechne Plastics' elimination of measuring tasks in its "squeeze-meter" dispenser; (6) redesign of classic Tupperware by that company; and (7) Steelcase, Inc.'s commitment to a new approach to workplace design. A resource list is appended. (Contains approximately 300 references.) (DB)