Why is Accessibility So Hard?
Included in subscription
Description
Accessible design is inherently challenging because it’s not a "settled science." Standards are constantly evolving—sometimes even in conflict with one another. This course will cut through the confusion.
Our discussion/exploration will:
- Review compliance missteps and achievements in real-world scenarios
- Identify phases of the design process where various concerns are best addressed
- Help you create a clear plan for accessibility success
- Address questions, comments, and concerns from members like you
Hear from accessibility experts and learn from the experiences of your peers in this clarifying course.
Course expires on 4/19/2026.
Learning Objectives
Explain the best ways to design accessibility into projects at each phase of the project.
Identify valuable no-cost accessibility resources available throughout the country and funded by the federal government.
Apply knowledge of the problem/solution process (identify, analyze, address) exemplified in the course to your practice.
Use the checklist of accessibility issues at each phase of your project work.
Mr. Dipner holds degrees in Aeronautical Engineering and Computer Science from Ohio State University. He is a founder of Meeting the Challenge, Inc. and has conducted ADA Self-Evaluations and Transition Plans and over 200 facility accessibility surveys. Mr. Dipner is a member of the U.S. Access Board ADAAG Review Committee for a review and rewrite of the ADAAG, the U.S. Access Board Federal Advisory Committee on Accessible Electronic and Information Technology, and the ANSI A117.1 Working Group on dwelling unit accessibility.
As a Principal and a Design Realization Leader for Gensler’s Southwest Region, Warwick thrives on the technical aspects of architecture. Warwick is part of the leadership team for the Los Angeles Hospitality studio, where his passion for delivering large-scale projects with complex teams is evidenced in the success of recent work. As a member of the Gensler’s BIM Oversight Committee, he contributes to elevating the firm’s technology standards and approach to integrated project delivery.
Mr. Schmidt, Principal at Semple Brown P.C., is responsible for the success of a wide range of project types, from conception through completion. Project experience highlights include the King Performing Arts Center, Designscapes Colorado's offices, Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Kent Denver School Student Center for the Arts , RedLine Center for Contemporary Art, Kent Denver School Dining Hall, Pueblo Memorial Hall Renovation and Addition.
Mike Janas has more than 16 years of experience as a project architect on multiple building types. With his strong technical background and comprehensive experience with interiors, renovations and large-scale hospitality projects, Mike bridges the gap between technical and design roles. A strong communicator, Mike points to large scale resort projects such as Grand Hyatt Incheon in Korea and Westin Denver Airport as the jobs that helped him recognize and hone his skill for managing relationships among clients, consultants, and contractors. Recognized as specialist in hotel planning and programming, Mike consults with project teams in other offices to bring his knowledge of brand and hotel operations to all of Gensler’s hospitality projects. As a Design Realization leader for Gensler’s Los Angeles office, and a Technical Director for the office, Mike ensures quality of project delivery, integration between technical, design, and management disciplines. Mike travels internationally as much as he can, sampling cultures and broadening his horizons. He loves the architecture of London, the urban life of Shanghai, and the resorts of Thailand.