In this episode of CRE Talks, Colliers' Tonya Lagrasta, global head of sustainability, and Erin O’Hearn, senior property manager, are joined by Matthew Shaw, head, accessible practice at the Rick Hansen Foundation.

They discuss the importance of removing barriers for people with disabilities in buildings, and the need for continuous improvement beyond simply complying with regulations.

There is also a business case for improving accessibility. Enabling more people to access, enjoy and thrive in spaces can enhance tenant retention and improve a building’s performance.

The conversation covers:

• the challenges and misconceptions around accessibility and why relying on minimum government requirements is not enough; 
• why the best approach is to focus on education, empathy and strategic planning to create more accessible spaces;
• the importance of considering the entire journey and experience of a person when they arrive at a building, move through the space, and eventually depart;
• Why accessibility audits of buildings are integral to the pursuit of continuous improvement.