Inclusive Design ideas for people in wheelchairs

designstudent
designstudent Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
edited July 2024 in Housing and independent living
Hi, I am a design student in a course about Human Factors and Inclusive Design. I am working on a project to redesign self-checkout machines at grocery stores to make them more inclusive for people in wheelchairs and those with mobility issues. I am hoping to learn about the issues people struggle with most when using the machines or why people do not use them. Is the height or distance away from the screen an issue? Would it be helpful if the screen was adjustable or moveable? Are the messages on the screen clear? I would really appreciate any feedback, comments, or suggestions. Thank you for your time! 

Comments

  • designstudent
    designstudent Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    edited October 2019
    Hi, I am a design student in a course about Human Factors and Inclusive Design. I am working on a project to redesign self-checkout machines at grocery stores to make them more inclusive for people in wheelchairs and those with mobility issues. I am hoping to learn about the issues people struggle with most when using the machines or why people do not use them. Is the height or distance away from the screen an issue? Would it be helpful if the screen was adjustable or moveable? Are the messages on the screen clear? I would really appreciate any feedback, comments, or suggestions. Thank you for your time! 
  • Adrian_Scope
    Adrian_Scope Posts: 14,323 Online Community Programme Lead
    Hi @designstudent and a warm welcome to the community. Hopefully some of our members will share some of their insights with you. :)
  • pollyanna1052
    pollyanna1052 Online Community Member Posts: 2,015 Championing
    Hi, thank you for doing this and I hope the stores will take your research on board.
    Yes, the screens and payment slots are too high and far away for me. I cant stretch as I may fall out of my chair. Also the card machine at regular checkouts dont lower of come off the stand and I cannot reach them. My carer has t do it for me. I want to do it myself.
  • designstudent
    designstudent Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Hi @pollyanna1052, thank you so much for your response. Do you believe the screen and payment slot height is the biggest issue for you when using the machines? Are there any other aspects that make it even more difficult? What would be the most helpful change for you so that you are able to do it yourself? 
  • emmarenshaw
    emmarenshaw Online Community Member Posts: 697 Empowering
    Hello @designstudent welcome to the community. I'm a wheelchair user and it would make it so much easer for me if counters and screens were at the right height and adjustable. Also,  it's crucial that disabled people are part of the design and consultation process at every stage.
  • Chloe_Alumni
    Chloe_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 10,506 Championing
    Welcome to the community @designstudent!

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