Highlights of the conference:

Jörg Heidrich from Robert Bosch on designing for digital accessibility

‘Accessibility is not just a legal standard, it is an opportunity to improve the user experience for everyone.‘

Heidrich emphasised that design should be accessible to all, and that accessibility is more than just an obligation – it is an opportunity to improve the user experience while strengthening the brand. He also stressed the importance of early identification and systematic removal of barriers, which not only leads to greater inclusion, but can also be used as a long-term competitive advantage.

Silke Parnack of wirDesign on society-centred design

‘Design has the power to make societal challenges visible and to create solutions that are more than just aesthetic – they are social, sustainable and inclusive.’

In her presentation, Parnack made it clear that design is more than just a creative process – it is a tool to actively contribute to shaping a fairer, more just and sustainable society. She pointed out that the success of companies and organisations increasingly depends on how well they develop and integrate the skills and potential of their employees. Incorporating social responsibility and diversity management into design projects not only strengthens society, but also companies’ competitiveness. Social sustainability, she argued, is not only an ethical imperative but also a strategic necessity that will lead to a better future in the long run.

Tobias Stuntebeck from whitecane on innovative aids for inclusion

‘Sustainable solutions can only emerge if we understand the needs of users beyond the obvious.’

In his presentation, Stuntebeck emphasised the importance of considering both practical and emotional needs when developing products for people with disabilities, especially the blind and visually impaired. He presented his innovative development, the ‘White Cane IO’, which combines the sense of touch with traditional navigation aids to improve mobility and independence. Stuntebeck emphasised that understanding the user experience beyond technical solutions is key to truly inclusive design.

Rebecca Lefèvre, of the association “Gemeinsam zusammen”, on people with invisible disabilities

‘Barriers that cannot be seen make it all the more difficult to talk about them and find solutions’.

Lefèvre spoke about the invisible barriers that people with non-visible disabilities experience on a daily basis. She highlighted how these are often overlooked but have a profound impact on participation in social life. Through her work with ‘together together’, she advocates for a more inclusive society where these invisible barriers are considered as much as physical ones. Lefèvre called for greater awareness and concrete action to achieve true inclusion.

Sema Gedik, founder of the ‘Auf Augenhöhe’ fashion label, on inclusive fashion and social sustainability

‘Inclusion is not a trend, it is a necessity for a sustainable society.’

In her talk, Gedik argued for the development of fashion for people with special needs, especially those with short stature, as there are no brands in the industry that cater for this group. With ‘On Eye Level’, she aims to create fashion that is not only functional, but also aesthetic and inclusive. Gedik called on the fashion industry to break down barriers and consider a wider and more diverse audience to reflect the diversity of society.