Universal design in the organization of workplaces – a literature review
Universal design in the organization of workplaces – a literature review
StatusVoR
Alternative title
Authors
Jokiel, Maja
Młodzińska-Granek, Agnieszka
Jokiel, Grzegorz
Monograph
Monograph (alternative title)
Date
2025-05
Publisher
Journal title
Scientific Papers of Silesian University of Technology – Organization and Management Series
Issue
Volume
219
Pages
Pages
343-369
ISSN
1641-3466
2720-751X
2720-751X
ISSN of series
Weblink
Access date
2025-05-30
Abstract PL
Abstract EN
Purpose: This paper aims to identify and evaluate the application of universal design (UD) principles in workplace organisation through a systematic literature review. The research aims to: 1. Analyse the dimensions of accessibility, including physical, digital, information, communication, social and sensory aspects in the workplace. 2. Identify specific applications of UD in organising accessible and inclusive workplaces.3. Identify the benefits, challenges and best practices associated with implementing UD principles to increase inclusion and productivity in the workplace.
Design/methodology/approach: This paper uses a systematic literature review methodolog, analysing articles from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed.
Findings: The literature review reveals several critical findings: 1. Applications of UD: Ergonomic design, assistive technologies, etc. were highlighted as key applications of UD in workplace design. 2. Benefits: Increased integration, improved employee satisfaction and retention, increased productivity and innovative workplace solutions. 3. Challenges: Financial constraints, limited awareness and lack of training, contextual differences and insufficiently researched sensory accessibility needs. 4. Best practices: Early integration of UD principles, stakeholder engagement, adapted strategies and adoption of new technologies to enhance workplace accessibility.
Research limitations/implications: Lack of sectoral research on specific industry needs. Limited research on the lasting impact of UD in the work environment. Under-representation of description of sensory accessibility in the literature.
Practical implications: The research findings suggest practical recommendations for organisations:
1. Invest in training programmes to raise awareness and build expertise in UD principles.
2. Incorporate UD into the early stages of workplace design to avoid costly retrofitting.
3. Use assistive technologies and flexible infrastructure to meet the diverse needs of the workforce.
Social implications: This research highlights the importance of UD in supporting equitable and inclusive workplaces, by contributing to:
1. Improving the quality of life of employees, particularly those with disabilities or cognitive and sensory needs.
2. Positive socialetal attitudes towards diversity and inclusion.
3. Influence corporate social responsibility (CSR) and public policy to prioritise accessibility in the workplace.
Originality/value: This article provides a comprehensive synthesis of the literature on UD in workplace organisation, identifying under-researched dimensions such as sensory accessibility and the potential of new technologies
Abstract other
Keywords PL
Keywords EN
Universal design
workplace accessibility
inclusive design
ergonomic adaptations
assistive technologies
workplace accessibility
inclusive design
ergonomic adaptations
assistive technologies
Keywords other
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