Implementation of Universal Design in South Asian Countries

Abstract

As the aged and the disabled show a desire and a determination to live productive lives, universal design (UD) products could allow independence in daily life among these people. UD products are designed in such a way that they are usable to the greatest extent possible, by people of all ages and abilities. This research uses a descriptive analysis of data collected through a survey of 142 respondents in South Asian countries to determine their levels of awareness and practice of UD, willingness to pay more for UD products and preferred features in durable goods. The survey results show that South Asians are not very aware of UD, even though UD is already being incorporated into durable goods. There are three reasons driving market opportunities for UD products in South Asia. First is the consumers’ belief that the market for durable goods will increase. Second is the consumers’ willingness to pay 25% higher for UD products. Finally, consumers face problems while using products even though they have no disability. Furthermore, this paper discusses why some consumers like or do not like features in current products. This paper also discusses easier and safer features preferred by consumers of all age groups. Keywords: Awareness, Durable Goods, Practice, South Asia, Universal Design To cite this document: Nisha Prajapati and Tatsuo Asai, "Implementation of Universal Design in South Asian Countries", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.9, No.2, pp.109-136, 2013. Permanent link to this document http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.6158