The curb cut effect refers to the phenomenon where a design change or innovation intended to benefit a specific group of people ends up providing benefits to a much wider group. The term originates from the literal curb cuts in sidewalks - those small ramps built at crosswalks. Originally designed to aid people in wheelchairs, curb cuts have proven beneficial for a variety of people, including parents with strollers, travelers with luggage, bicyclists, and more.
In a broader sense, the curb cut effect is often cited in discussions about accessibility and universal design. It highlights how features added to assist people with disabilities can create an improved environment for everyone. This effect demonstrates the value of inclusive design - not only does it make products, services, and environments more accessible to people with disabilities, but it can also lead to innovations that benefit the broader population. It’s a powerful argument for why societies should invest in accessibility as a standard practice.