Me in Mind: Developing Design Principles for the Inclusion of Non-verbal Communicators with Profound Intellectual Disabilities in Design Process.

Non-verbal communicators, particularly those with profound intellectual disabilities, possess unique perspectives and interactions with their environment. Their diverse cognition and communication styles present a challenge to traditional spatial design processes, which often fail to accommodate their unconventional forms of expression and participation. This PhD has contributed to the field of inclusive design through the development of the Me in Mind design principles. The principles offer tools and techniques for designers, supporting them in designing with the non-verbal communicator. Designers are encouraged to explore the individual's holistic needs, considering their needs, interests, abilities and preferences, ensuring design processes can employ an empathetic approach that creates meaningful and genuine participation. The principles support designers to modify their design engagements to accommodate the unique contribution of the non-verbal individual, increasing the individual’s autonomy and voice.