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Building and Construction Authority

Universal Design Performance

Discover how the Universal Design Index (UDi) measures inclusivity and accessibility in buildings and how UD performance can be improved.

Last updated 18 March 2026
Building with skybridge and greenery illustrating universal design and inclusive accessibility.

Universal Design (UD) is crucial for creating inclusive and accessible environments. To measure and evaluate this performance, BCA developed a rating system under the Universal Design Index (UDi) self-assessment framework. Discover how the UDi framework works and learn how it helps create inclusive environments for everyone.

How UDi ratings reflect UD performance

Universal Design aims to create environments that accommodate as many user groups as possible. This enables people of all ages and abilities to live, work, learn, and play comfortably. The Universal Design Index (UDi) serves as a guide to measure how user-friendly a building is for key user groups. It considers a wide range of factors, including:

  • Accessibility: ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms

  • Wayfinding: clear signage, tactile guidance

  • User-friendly Amenities: family washrooms, nursing rooms

The UDi provides a score based on the provision of user-friendly features for each user group. It builds on the baseline requirements set by the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment.

Illustration showing four user groups: persons with disability, elderly persons, families with young children, and expectant or nursing mothers.

Key user groups considered in the Universal Design index

The scores across the four key user groups determine the building’s overall UDi rating:

UDi rating scale describing how well a building caters to different user groups, from excellent universal design to basic code-minimum accessibility.

UDi Rating

Indicator

A

Excellent – Caters well to all user groups

B

Good – Caters well to most user groups

C

Fair – Caters to some user groups

D

Basic – Minimal provisions for universal design

E

Meets only the Code’s minimum accessibility standard

UDi ratings

List of recently completed projects with their UDI ratings based on Qualified Persons' declaration when the building is completed.

View all projects

Explore the official BCA Universal Design Index page for comprehensive details and guidebook.

How to improve UD performance

While the UDi helps everyone understand the level of inclusivity in building design, industry professionals play a crucial role in shaping these environments. Here are how they can enhance UD performance in their projects: 

  • Consult with accessibility experts in the design process to ensure your project meets the needs of all users.

  • Involve people with disabilities to understand their experiences and identify potential improvements.

  • Use universal design principles to design buildings that are usable by people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

  • Strive to exceed baseline regulatory requirements and create truly inclusive environments.

The Universal Design Excellence Award (UDEA)

The Universal Design Excellence Award (UDEA) recognises outstanding projects that show excellence in Universal Design. These winners are inspiring examples of how UD can be integrated into the Built Environment. Learn more about the UDEA and past winners.