Launching Into a New Era of Accessibility: OSU's Accessible Campus Map Project

By Michael McDonald on Feb. 20, 2025
Image
Four decorative map-related icons in a line

Oregon State University is embarking on a transformative effort to enhance navigation for students, faculty, staff, and visitors across all our locations. The Accessible Campus Map Project is a bold step forward in our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, aligning with OSU’s ADA31 Taskforce recommendations, our newly adopted Digital Accessibility Policy, and the upcoming ADA compliance changes set for 2026. 

The Accessible Campus Map project is a cross-university effort with key contributors and project team members from across the institution—Including Student Affairs, UIT Digital Experience, Division of Finance and Administration IT, Public Safety, University Relations & Marketing, Equal Opportunity and Access, Disability Access Services, and others. We will be partnering closely with stakeholders at OSU’s campuses and locations as we prepare to deliver a unified map experience no matter where you’re interacting with OSU.

What You Can Expect and Why This Project Matters 

At OSU, we believe that navigation should be seamless, intuitive, and accessible for everyone. The Accessible Campus Map will ensure that OSU provides a fully accessible and compliant map that meets the diverse needs of our community while consolidating various mapping solutions into a single, user-friendly platform. 

This project is more than just a compliance initiative—it’s about creating a truly inclusive digital environment. Here's what you can expect from the new Accessible Campus Map: 

  • Mobile-first, user-friendly design: Optimized for both web and app use to ensure seamless navigation on any device. 

  • Searchable locations with accessibility filters: Easily find barrier-free routes, ensuring you can navigate campus with ease. 

  • Event integration: The map will highlight events from OSU's Event Calendar, helping users plan and navigate events happening at various campus locations. 

  • Consistent branding and real-time updates: Navigation will always be accurate, reliable, and aligned with OSU’s visual identity. 

This initiative highlights OSU’s proactive approach to digital accessibility, solidifying our leadership in fostering inclusive campus experiences for all. 

Meet Concept3D: Our Accessibility-Focused Partner 

After an extensive selection process, Concept3D was chosen as OSU’s partner for this project. Why Concept3D? Their platform stands out for several reasons: 

  • Commitment to Accessibility – Concept3D is a leader in accessibility and is dedicated to meeting additional ADA requirements well ahead of the DOJ’s 2026 deadline. 

  • Intuitive Navigation and Wayfinding – Features include real-time updates, and customizable overlays, making it easier for users to find key locations, like accessible paths, lactation rooms, and gender-inclusive restrooms. 

  • Integration Capabilities – The map will seamlessly integrate with existing OSU digital experiences like the OSU mobile app, Drupal websites, and GIS mapping data, ensuring a cohesive user experience. 

  • Proven Track Record – Concept3D has implemented accessible campus maps for over 600 institutions, including peer universities like Penn State, University of Minnesota, and Texas A&M. 

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Future 

OSU remains firmly committed to enhancing digital accessibility across our community. By launching this Accessible Campus Map project, we are taking a significant step toward making our university a more navigable and inclusive environment for everyone.  

We're working hard to make the new Accessible Campus Map available before the end of the Spring 2025 academic term. Stay tuned for updates as we work toward delivering a map that truly reflects OSU's values of equity, inclusion, and accessibility.