 |
|
|
|
OXO is based on the concept of
Universal Design. But what is Universal Design and how does it
benefit users? In simplest terms, Universal Design means the design
of products usable by as many people as possible. In the case of
OXO, it means designing products for young and old, male and female,
left- and right- handed and many with special needs.
Universal Design can be found everywhere: buildings with
access for all instead of a separate entrance for people with
disabilities, unisex facilities where men or women have a place to
attend to a child's needs, and graphics on signs that can be
recognized and understood by anyone, regardless of language.
The concept of Universal Design makes room for all users by
taking as many needs as possible into consideration in the design
process. It is important to note that Universal Design does not mean
designing products fully usable by everybody, since there is no
product that can truly fulfill the needs of all users. But when all
users' needs are taken into consideration in the initial design
process, the result is a product that can be used by the broadest
spectrum of users.
For OXO, the principles of Universal
Design mean a salad spinner that can be used with one hand; liquid
measuring cups that can be read from above without bending over; a
toilet brush that bends to reach out-of-the-way places; a backlit
oven thermometer that can be read easily through the window of an
oven door; kettles with whistle lids that open automatically when
tipped to pour; and tools with pressure-absorbing, non-slip handles
that make them more efficient. | |
|
|
