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The Universal Design Network of Canada is proud to display the Universal Design Knowledge Matrix. This Matrix was designed to show the relationships between the 7 principles and the 8 goals of Universal Design.

UDNC Knowledge Matrix

Universal Design Network of Canada Knowledge Matrix (Adapted by Dalton from 8 Goals of Universal Design by Steinfeld and Maisel; Universal Design: Creating Inclusive Environments 2012). Intended for: Architects, Engineers, and the people who build things to make the built environment more livable for all people across the lifespan.
UD Knowledge Matrix Table Description: The 8 Goals of Universal Design share common knowledge domains with the 7 Principles which is represented with an "X" on the matrix.				7 Principles of Universal Design (Mace, et al 1997)
Universal Design Knowledge Parameters	Universal Design Knowledge Domains	Universal Design Knowledge Disciplines	8 Goals of Universal Design (Steinfeld and Maisel, 2012)	Equitable	Flexible	Simple to Use	Perceptable	Tolerance for Error	Low Physical Effort	Size and Space for Approach and Use
Human Performance	Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) Anthropometrics Biomechanics Perception Cognition	Occupational Therapists Certified Ergonomist User Expert	Body Fit		X			X		X
			Comfort		X			X	X	X
			Awareness		X		X	X
			Understanding		X	X	X
Health and Wellness	Rehabilitation and Health		Health and Wellness		X	X	X	X	X	X
Social Participation for All	Charter of Rights and Freedoms Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Accessible Canada Act Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act	User Experts (CNIB, Canadian Hard of Hearing Association, March of Dimes) Accessibility Consultants Social Workers	Social Integration	X
			Personalization	X	X				X	X
			Cultural Appropriate	X	X	X	X	X	X	X

Practical

Below are best practice examples of Universal Design for Housing. Each example is paired with corresponding UD principle(s). For example eliminating stairs to the front door and making a low threshold entrance satisfies Principle 1 (Equitable) and achieves social participation for all.

UDNC Knowledge Matrix for Housing

Universal Design Network of Canada Knowledge Matrix for Housing (Adapted from UDNC Knowledge Matrix and Saferhomes Certification Examples). Intended for Housing Contractors.
UD Knowledge Matrix Table Description: The 8 Goals of Universal Design share common knowledge domains with the 7 Principles which is represented with an "X" on the matrix.				7 Principles of Universal Design (Mace, et al 1997)
Universal Design Knowledge Parameters	Universal Design Knowledge Domains	Universal Design Knowledge Disciplines	8 Goals of Universal Design (Steinfeld and Maisel, 2012)	Equitable	Flexible	Simple to Use	Perceptable	Tolerance for Error	Low Physical Effort	Size and Space for Approach and Use
Human Performance	Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) Anthropometrics Biomechanics Perception Cognition	Occupational Therapists User Experts SaferHome Certification	Body Fit		X			X		X
			Comfort		X			X	X	X
			Awareness		X		X	X
			Understanding		X	X	X
Health and Wellness	Rehabilitation and Health		Health and Wellness		X	X	X	X	X	X
Social Participation for All	Charter of Rights and Freedoms Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Accessible Canada Act Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act		Social Integration	X
			Personalization	X	X				X	X
			Cultural Appropriate	X	X	X	X	X	X	X

Wall reinforcement at top of stairs. Satisfies Principle 5. Tolerance for Error (Allows for future installation of safety gates to prevent falls).

Installation of solid backing around bathroom walls. Satisfies Principle 5: Low Tolerance for Error (Allows for future installation of safety bars to prevent falls. Safety bars are not just for people who are frail. They assist everyone with balance and stability)

Level access to shower. Satisfies Principle 1: Equitable (Installing a shower that is a continuation of the floor (no step) ensures everyone can get into the shower with ease, as there is no step or lip to overcome) and Principle 5: Low Tolerance for Error (Eliminates falling and tripping hazards for people of all ages – from toddlers to seniors).

Stairs are eliminated at the front door. Satisfies Principle 1: Equitable ( All exterior entrances are the same for everyone) and Principle 5: Low Tolerance for Error (Eliminates falling and tripping hazards for people of all ages)

Wider hallways, doors and larger entryways. satisfies Principle 7: Size and Space for Approach and Use (can accommodate wheeled mobility devices, such as walkers, scooters, and strollers and let everyone pass through).

Lever door handles and rocker light switches are great for people with reduced range of motion and/or dexterity and anyone with their arms full.

Where stairs exist, alternatives for ascending and descending are provided, such as an elevator or stairlift.

Smoke alarms that include a visual or vibration- based signal for residents who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Good lighting. Provision of good lighting throughout a home is important, as it helps to minimize shadows and ensure people of all ages and abilities can move safely throughout the house

Stairs with graspable handrails on both sides. Handrails assist with balance and help to prevent falls.

Thermostats that are simple and straightforward to operate. The homeowner should be able to figure out how they work, even if they haven’t seen one before.