tech and cultural changes

What is inclusive design according to BSI?

The design of mainstream products/services usable by as many people as possible, without needing special adaptation.

Why did the white teeth advertising campaign fail?

In that culture, white teeth are associated with demons and wild animals—showing the importance of cultural research in design.

What does "universal design" aim to achieve?

Products and environments that are usable by everyone, regardless of ability, without stigmatization.

What is the 5th to 95th percentile used for in design?

To determine the size and adjustability range of products to suit most people based on anthropometric data.

Give an example of an inclusive product.

OXO Good Grips kitchen utensils – designed for ease of use by people with limited grip strength.

What are some inclusive features in public transport?

Low floors, bright yellow handrails, ramps, audio and tactile signals for crossings.

What is empathic research in design?

Designers simulating disabilities (e.g., arthritis gloves, vision-blurring goggles) to understand user challenges.

How does design help address social problems like littering?

Creating child-friendly litterbins to promote good habits from a young age.

What is a 'black box' device in cars?

A device that monitors driving behavior (speed, location, braking) to promote safer driving and reduce insurance risks.

What was Trevor Baylis’s invention and its purpose?

The wind-up radio – provided access to health broadcasts in Africa without needing batteries.

What is the Gravity Light?

A light powered by a raised weight, offering a safe, affordable alternative to kerosene lamps in Kenya.

How can crowdfunding support design?

It enables people to fund social or humanitarian design projects (e.g., Gravity Light).

What is open design and who promotes it?

Making designs freely available to benefit disadvantaged people; promoted by NGOs like Practical Action.

Give an example of a practical poverty solution by design.

A 3-ring concrete compost bin in Sri Lanka to improve agriculture and health.

Name three healthcare design innovations.

Robotic surgery (da Vinci), Telehealth monitoring, MRI/CT scans.

What are artificial organs and examples?

Man-made organs replacing biological ones, like artificial hearts and cochlear implants.

How is 3D printing used in medicine?

For making implants, prosthetics, medical tools, and synthetic skin.

What are ‘hospitainers’?

Shipping containers converted into mobile hospitals used in refugee crises.

What is Adiff clothing?

Garments designed for refugees that double as tents—functional fashion for crisis situations.

What does Fairtrade promote?

Ethical trade that ensures fair pay, safe working conditions, and social benefits for producers.

Name a Fairtrade craft producer in India.

Pushpanjali – provides fair wages and equal rights to local artisans in Agra.

What are the four stages of a product life cycle?

Introduction → Growth → Maturity → Decline

What is planned obsolescence?

Intentionally designing products with a limited useful life to encourage replacement.

How does Fairphone challenge planned obsolescence?

It is designed for easy repairs and upgrades, promoting sustainability.

What drives the evolution of products?

New materials, technologies, consumer demand, and R&D efforts.