preventonesizefitsall

PreventOneSizeFitsAll is a design concept and critique that challenges the idea of universal sizing or one-size-fits-all solutions. It promotes creating products, services, and systems that can be adjusted, customized, or scaled to fit diverse users, contexts, and environments. The term is used in discussions about inclusivity, accessibility, and user experience to urge alternatives to generic defaults.

Applications span multiple domains. In clothing and furniture, this means adjustable dimensions and modular components. In software and digital services, it involves configurable interfaces, adaptable layouts, and personalized settings that respond to user needs. In education and public policy, it encourages flexible curricula, formats, and delivery methods that accommodate different learning styles and circumstances. In product design, it supports universal design principles alongside options for customization.

Common approaches include adjustable hardware, modular or extensible components, and software that supports user preferences without sacrificing accessibility or safety. Research and testing with diverse user groups are emphasized to identify real-world variability and ensure inclusive outcomes. Privacy and data governance are considerations when personalization relies on user data.

Benefits of this approach include broader accessibility, higher user satisfaction, reduced waste from mismatched products, and safer outcomes for varied use cases. Potential drawbacks include higher upfront costs, greater design and maintenance complexity, and the need to manage defaults in a way that remains intuitive. See also inclusive design, universal design, and personalization.