SaaS Article #1
Designing Barrier-Free Zoo Exhibits: Turning Complex Systems into Accessible Experiences for Everyone...
The Philosophy: Barrier-Free Zoo Design (BFZD) is often developed through an ethical lens—which is critical. However, from a technical perspective, it must be viewed as a strategic framework for improving operational efficiency, risk management, and long-term sustainability. My time spent designing for the Western Lowland Gorillas at the Denver Zoo in Colorado, taught me to evaluate, approach and seek solutions that are ever-changing.
The Systemic Approach: A zoo exhibit functions as an interconnected environment involving animal well-being, visitor experience, operational workflows, and regulatory compliance. Design decisions that prioritize "barrier-free" accessibility across all stakeholders reduce friction, eliminate variability, and minimize the need for reactive interventions.
For Animals: Natural, evolving environments that support innate behaviors contribute to biological stability and a decrease in veterinary-related disruptions.
For Staff: Accessible, intuitive layouts improve safety, predictability, and maintenance efficiency.
For Visitors: BFZD enhances engagement and increases dwell-time without adding unnecessary operational complexity.
The Business Impact: From a business standpoint, BFZD mitigates risk, reduces retrofit costs, and ensures adaptability as building codes, regulations, and visitor needs evolve. These benefits translate into stronger institutional expertise and more sustainable financial performance.
The Conclusion: Barrier-Free Zoo Design is not a trend; it is a profitable business framework. When ethical accountability and accessibility are integrated at the system level, complex environments become more reliable, scalable, and effective for everyone.
My approach, outline, and research are available upon request