Pilot Scheme – embracing inclusivity through student engagement.
The University of Salford’s forward-thinking approach has powered progress for 125 years. Driven by a mission to transform lives, stimulate discovery, and realise potential, this leading institution aims to build a thriving education community in Salford and beyond.
With a choice of library facilities located at various buildings throughout the campus, students have access, 24/7, to a wealth of resources. Southernsbroadstock was delighted to be selected by the University to enhance the library furniture by applying its expertise in inclusive design.
What were the challenges?
With experience of working on many ground-breaking projects together with years of extensive research, Southernsbroadstock has developed recognised expertise in designing for diversity and inclusion. The University’s facilities team turned, therefore, to our design specialists to lead on the Library project. Recognising the importance and relevance of creating more inclusive spaces, the customer wanted guidance and support to develop an appropriate solution which would facilitate greater access opportunities for all as well as increase engagement and space usage.
How did we overcome these challenges?
Working to tight timescales, the SB team created a comprehensive presentation offering a variety of furniture solutions, with each offering particular features and benefits. As well as providing improved access for those with physical disability, the proposal also included considerations for neurodiversity. It is now recognised that one in five people are considered neurodivergent – but fewer than 50% even know it. Equally, new research is indicating that this figure is considerably underestimated. The challenge is that neurodiverse people may not always be able to thrive within existing environments. They can often be over- or under-stimulated by factors which may affect their ability to concentrate, manage distractions, regulate emotions, recall information, process details quickly, or communicate effectively.
Everyone – neurotypical and diverse – is impacted by sensory stimulation. Design for diversity has benefits, therefore, for all through providing options, choice, and a degree of personal control. Following the initial presentation, the combined teams fine-tuned the options for an initial pilot scheme. Students and staff would be able to test each product and provide feedback which could then be assessed to decide the final selection.
The University team distributed social media notifications inviting involvement in the library initiative. Student champions were also recruited to help encourage participation. In addition, the student library champion already had considerable experience in understanding the diversity of student needs, and the demographic profile. Participation was further incentivised through the opportunity to win Amazon vouchers and enjoy the sweets and treats on offer!
Inclusivity at the Clifford Whitworth Library.
What was the outcome?
The pilot scheme was hugely successful with over 350 people attending the event providing verbal and written feedback on thoughts and opinions of the 17 furniture options. The online questionnaire included six specific questions relating to each possibility.
The height adjustable workstation proved to be particularly popular. Students appreciated the fact that the desk was set up with a monitor arm, PC screen and the facility to plug in a laptop. The screen share option to the monitor also offered the benefit of two screen views. Many people commented on how easy the desk was to adjust and overall, most attendees stayed longer at this product and showed more interest than most of the other furniture.
Southernsbroadstock’s own task chair was also a top performer.
People liked the chair’s adjustability features and commented that it could be easily and exactly set up to suit their needs. Some staff who visited the event advised that they had seen these chairs in other areas of the university and feedback they have had so far had been extremely positive. The majority of people preferred this product and were surprised to find that it was the lowest priced option of all the task chairs on display!
Testimonial.
“We really appreciated Southernsbroadstock’s proactive approach in creating a truly interactive and engaging experience for our staff and students. Their expertise in the application of inclusive design was invaluable to the project.”
Joanne Moolenaar, Spaces and Innovation Officer. – University of Salford
Everyone – neurotypical and diverse is impacted by sensory stimulation. Design for diversity has benefits, therefore, for all, through providing options, choice, and a degree of personal control.
Would you like to learn more about our approach to inclusive design, or develop an engaging pilot space of your own?
Please contact us to find out more about how we can support you and help you to better understand the needs of your people.
