Disability Characteristics Model

The disability characteristics are designed to prompt deeper thinking about how different combinations can shape unique access needs in design. They aren't exhaustive, but offer a practical lens for exploring diverse experiences. As a disabled person, they also help me name common patterns without relying solely on personal disclosure, which can be exhausting. Each characteristic should be read as a neutral fact, not a value judgment.

Duration
Whether the disability is lifelong or momentary (e.g. chronic illness vs. situational).
Range: Temporary to Permanent
Progression
Whether the disability remains the same or changes over time (fluctuation, deterioration, remission).
Range: Static to Dynamic
Origin
Whether the disability was present at birth or developed later in life.
Range: Congenital to Acquired
Framing Model
Whether the experience is seen as shaped by systemic barriers or by individual diagnosis.
Range: Social Model to Medical Model
Onset Speed
Whether the disability appeared abruptly or developed over time.
Range: Gradual to Sudden
Visibility
Whether the disability is outwardly noticeable to others.
Range: Non-Apparent to Apparent
Barrier Frequency
How often the person encounters digital or systemic barriers.
Range: Low Frequency to High Frequency
Fatigue Sensitivity
How much energy limitations impact the person (cognitive, emotional, or physical).
Range: Low Fatigue to High Fatigue
Trauma Sensitivity
How much past harm or trauma affects present engagement and trust.
Range: Low Trauma to High Trauma
Prototypicality
Whether the disability aligns with common societal assumptions of what disability looks like.
Range: Non-Prototypical to Prototypical
Prevalence
How frequently the disability occurs in the general population.
Range: Rare to Common
Support System Access
Access to assistive technology, services, caregivers, or community support.
Range: Low Support to High Support
Cognitive Style
How information is interpreted—concrete, direct language vs. inferential or conceptual thinking.
Range: Literal Processing to Abstract Processing

Explore the Principles

Check out the cross-cutting principles of inclusive design to help guide your work.