Project Overview
The Global Universal Design Commission, Inc. (GUDC) is a not-for-profit corporation established to develop Universal Design (UD) standards for buildings, products, and services. GUDC is currently developing voluntary consensus UD standards for commercial buildings, which will expand access to buildings for all people, regardless of physical stature and varying abilities. The approved UD standards will guide corporations and government entities in the creation of barrier-free facilities, providing diverse users with access to commerce, public services, entertainment, and employment opportunities. Universal Design increases usability, safety, and health of environments, products, and systems in response to the diversity of people and abilities.
BBI is affiliated with the GUDC through BBI Chairman Peter Blanck, who is also the Chairman for the GUDC. BBI supports GUDC administrative processes by receiving and handling inquiries to the GUDC general mailbox and website, web development, etc.
Goals and Objectives
- Develop and promote Universal Design voluntary consensus standards for commercial buildings.
- Accelerate adoption of Universal Design concepts with bipartisan support at federal and state levels.
- Expand access to buildings for all people, regardless of physical stature and varying abilities.
- Guide corporations and government entities in the creation of barrier-free facilities.
- Increase understanding and use of Universal Design to benefit everyone, including the 650 million people living with disabilities worldwide and the growing aging population.
- Move design beyond compliance with law toward a vision of good design that provides ease of use without disadvantage to any group or individuals.
Contact Information
GUDC Chairman: Peter Blanck
Email: bbi@syr.edu
Website: globaluniversaldesign.org
Funding Agency
Supported by the public and private sector contributions