Demographic trends and increasing support costs means that good design for older and disabled people is an economic necessity, as well as a moral imperative. Alan Newell has been described as "a visionary who stretches the imagination of all of us" and "truly ahead of his time."

Demographic trends and increasing support costs means that good design for older and disabled people is an economic necessity, as well as a moral imperative. Alan Newell has been described as "a visionary who stretches the imagination of all of us" and "truly ahead of his time." This monograph describes research ranging from developing communication systems for non-speaking and hearing-impaired people to technology to support older people, and addresses the particular challenges older people have with much modern technology.

Alan recounts the insights gained from this research journey, and recommends a philosophy, and design practices, to reduce the "Digital Divide" between users of information technology and those who are excluded by the poor design of many current systems. How to create and lead interdisciplinary teams, and the practical and ethical challenges of working in clinically related fields are discussed. The concepts of "Ordinary and Extra-ordinary HCI", "User Sensitive Inclusive Design" , and "Design for Dynamic Diversity", and the use of "Creative Design" techniques are suggested as extensions of "User Centered" and "Universal Design."

Also described are the use of professional theatre and other methods for raising designers' awareness of the challenges faced by older and disabled people, ways of engaging with these groups, and of ascertaining what they "want" rather than just what they "need."

Part of the Series "Synthesis Lectures on Assistive, Rehabilitative, and Health-Preserving Technologies" - "Design and the Digital Divide: Computer Support for Older and Disabled People" is available to buy from Amazon.

"I’ve come away from reading this book with fresh perspectives about research, clarity about teamwork, and reminders about persistence. Newell’s writings and his life work defined and legitimized research on extraordinary users, producing plentiful benefits for all technology users. He deserves ample recognition for catalyzing innovative research, initiating academic courses, and launching valuable products."
– from the foreword by Ben Shneiderman, June, 2011

"I am going to have all my students read it."
– Gregg C. Vanderheiden, University of Wisconsin, Madison

"…An excellent piece of work of high quality in terms of content and the conveyance of significant cumulative experience on the part of a superb research team that has evolved in imaginative and creative ways. The audience… will be well satisfied and especially enlightened by the work which bristles with enormously valuable insights and ideas and which offers excellent direction for serious players in the field."
– Morris Milner, Consultant, Rehabilitation Science, and Medical and Assistive Technologies