Policy and Organization

Our UD Policy specifies six required design elements such as "making operations easily understandable." The UD concept is a fundamental prerequisite for any of our "V Products," which we view as an engine of growth. We are gradually extending the use of this concept to all Panasonic products.

To create UD products, two types of research are vital. First, we undertake "human research" to better understand human characteristics and behavior. Second, "lifestyle research" is needed to gain deeper knowledge of areas where products fail to satisfy customer needs. We study the factors that reduce any usage-related stress suffered by users and analyze what is needed for a person to feel that a particular product is well adapted to his or her needs. The ultimate goal of UD is to create a product that any customer finds easy and convenient to use within any specific individual setting.

To this end, the fruits of our research into human lifestyles are incorporated into common UD regulations and design standards on which product planning and design processes across Panasonic are based. Research findings are also reflected in various technical development programs to create UD-based functions.

UD policy

Providing help and assistance for more people through our commodities and services, and to pursue active, comfortable and rewarding lifestyles.

Six Basic Elements of Universal Design

1. Easy-to-understand operation
2. Easy-to-understand description and expression
3. Ergonomic use
4. Movement and space
5. Security and safety
6. Use environment

Please visit Panasonic centers for product examples of UD and thoughts for developments.

• Panasonic Center Tokyo
• Panasonic Center Osaka

Panasonic's UD Policy specifies six basic design elements with the goal of creating products, user manuals, packaging and catalogs that respect UD principles. Starting at the planning and development stages, our approach is to try to adopt the customer's viewpoint to assess the overall "usability" of a product, which equates to the level of satisfaction associated with using it. Usability includes such features as "operability," "efficiency," "comfort," and "convenience." Since fiscal 2006, the UD promotion system has been a collaborative effort with Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. (MEW). A new system will come into operation from fiscal 2008 involving PanaHome Corporation.