The purpose of this blog post is to explore recommendations put forth by AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, regarding audiovisual (AV) design for collaborative spaces that promotes accessibility and inclusivity. Collaborative spaces such as conference rooms, huddle spaces, and training rooms are more prevalent in workplaces today as teams look to foster cooperation and innovation. However, it is important that the AV solutions implemented in these spaces consider people of all abilities and backgrounds.

AVIXA Guidance on Accessibility and Inclusivity in AV Design AVIXA has released guidance aimed at promoting accessibility and inclusivity through intentional AV design. Some key aspects they recommend considering include:

Ensuring people who are deaf or hard of hearing can both see and participate in discussions equally through the use of assistive listening systems, captioning/subtitling, and video conferencing solutions that support sign language interpretation.

Providing flexible lighting options so that visual information like presentations can be seen clearly by all, including those with low vision.

Using intuitive and consistent user interfaces across different room systems so that people of varying technical skills and abilities can easily operate the technology.

Considering both audio and visual feedback modes for feedback on controls so that functionality is accessible to more people.

Implementing flexible furniture layouts, sightlines, and technology placements so the spaces are comfortable and inclusive for people of all physical abilities.

Universal Design Principles in Practice

Universal design principles seek to make products and environments usable and accessible by people of all abilities to the greatest extent possible without need for adaptation. When applied to AV design, some practical ways this can be achieved include:

Touch Panel and Remote Control Design

- Large Touch Targets and Buttons

Touch panels and remote controls should have large touch targets and buttons spaced sufficiently apart to accommodate variations in dexterity, mobility, and vision. Simple iconography helps circumvent language barriers.

- Consistent Layout

Button placement and labeling should be consistent across different rooms and systems for intuitive use. Common functions like volume, mute, and menu navigation should be in the same location on all devices.

- Audible and Tactile Feedback

In addition to visual confirmation, controls provide audible tones or tactile vibrations to acknowledge input for users who may not see or see well.

Room Acoustics and Sightlines

- Acoustic Treatments

Absorptive materials help reduce echoes and reverberation, making the audio clearer and easier to understand for everyone. Ceiling microphones can also improve speech intelligibility.

- Clear Lines of Sight

Furniture and technology should be arranged to allow those seated or standing to see shared content and each without barriers. Adjustable tables and displays facilitate varying postures.

Assistive Technologies

- Hearing Assistance

Induction loops and audio systems paired with personal receivers provide access to discussions for those with hearing loss while minimizing audio interference.

- Visual Assistance

Subtitling/captioning displays text of discussions for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Descriptive playback narrates shared content to benefit those who are blind or visually impaired.

- Alternative Interfaces

Touch screens, switches, mobility devices adapt the user interface as needed. Interface customization allows adjustments by individuals according to preferences and abilities.

Considering the Whole User Experience

True accessibility and usability emerges from a holistic, user-centered design approach. AVIXA's guidance advocates intentionally considering human factors during planning, design, implementation and evaluation stages. User research and testing with a variety of abilities ensures the experience meets real needs. With care and forethought, collaborative spaces can leverage AV to bring more people together on equal footing.

Conclusion

In summary, when applied effectively, universal design and accessibility practices as outlined by AVIXA can help collaborative workspaces become more inclusive through their AV solutions. Intentional upfront planning lays the groundwork for spaces and technologies that accommodate human diversity. This supports inclusion, collaboration and innovation which are increasingly important in today's work environments. Continuing engagement with user communities also helps solutions evolve to best serve all.