11.2 Accessible technology and universal design
10 min read•august 20, 2024
Accessible technology and aim to create digital products usable by everyone, regardless of abilities. This approach ensures inclusivity, meets legal requirements, and expands market reach. It's not just about accommodating disabilities, but enhancing usability for all users.
Implementing accessible tech involves considering diverse needs from the start of product development. This includes following accessibility guidelines, using assistive technologies, and conducting inclusive user testing. The goal is to create inherently accessible products, benefiting users and businesses alike.
Principles of accessible technology
- Accessible technology aims to create products, services, and environments that can be used by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities
- Adhering to principles of accessible technology helps ensure that digital products and services are inclusive and usable by the broadest possible audience
- Implementing accessible technology principles is not only an ethical imperative but also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions
Equitable use
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- Provides the same means of use for all users (identical whenever possible, equivalent when not)
- Avoids segregating or stigmatizing any users
- Ensures privacy, security, and safety are equally available to all users
- Makes the design appealing to all users
Flexibility in use
- Accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities
- Provides choice in methods of use (e.g., keyboard navigation, voice input)
- Facilitates the user's accuracy and precision
- Adapts to the user's pace and needs
Simple and intuitive
- Eliminates unnecessary complexity in the user interface and interaction design
- Accommodates a wide range of literacy and language skills
- Arranges information consistent with its importance and user expectations
- Provides effective prompting and feedback during and after task completion
Perceptible information
- Communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user's sensory abilities
- Uses different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for redundant presentation of essential information
- Provides adequate contrast between essential information and its surroundings
- Maximizes "legibility" of essential information through appropriate font sizes, line spacing, and text formatting
Tolerance for error
- Arranges elements to minimize hazards and errors (most used elements, most accessible; hazardous elements eliminated, isolated, or shielded)
- Provides warnings of hazards and errors
- Provides fail-safe features to minimize unintended actions
- Discourages unconscious action in tasks that require vigilance
Low physical effort
- Allows user to maintain a neutral body position while interacting with the product or service
- Uses reasonable operating forces and minimizes repetitive actions
- Minimizes sustained physical effort required for interaction
Size and space for approach and use
- Provides a clear line of sight to important elements for any seated or standing user
- Ensures reach to all components is comfortable for any seated or standing user
- Accommodates variations in hand and grip size
- Provides adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance
Universal design in technology
- Universal design is the process of creating products that are usable by people with the widest possible range of abilities, operating within the widest possible range of situations
- The goal is to create technology that is inherently accessible to people with and without disabilities, rather than designing for the average user and retrofitting for accessibility
Definition and goals
- Universal design aims to create products, environments, and systems that can be used by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design
- The goal is to simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and the built environment more usable by as many people as possible at little or no extra cost
- Universal design benefits people of all ages and abilities, not just those with disabilities
Benefits for businesses and users
- Expands market reach by making products and services accessible to a broader range of users
- Improves user experience and satisfaction by providing multiple ways to interact with technology
- Reduces the need for costly retrofits or specialized accommodations by designing for accessibility from the start
- Enhances brand reputation and demonstrates social responsibility by prioritizing inclusion and equal access
Inclusive design vs universal design
- Inclusive design focuses on designing for specific underserved or excluded populations, often involving direct engagement with those user groups
- Universal design aims to create solutions that work for everyone, considering the full range of human diversity from the outset
- Both approaches prioritize accessibility and usability, but inclusive design targets specific user needs while universal design seeks the broadest possible applicability
Assistive technologies
- Assistive technologies are products, equipment, and systems that enhance learning, working, and daily living for people with disabilities
- These technologies can be hardware devices, software applications, or built-in accessibility features that help users interact with digital content and services
Types of assistive devices
- that convert text to speech for users with visual impairments (JAWS, NVDA)
- Alternative input devices like switch controls, eye-gaze trackers, and sip-and-puff systems for users with motor disabilities
- Hearing aids and FM systems that amplify sound for users with hearing loss
- Refreshable Braille displays that convert text to tactile Braille characters for users who are blind or deafblind
Software accessibility features
- Operating system settings for text size, color contrast, and audio descriptions (Windows Ease of Access Center, macOS Accessibility)
- Keyboard navigation and shortcuts for users who cannot use a mouse or touchscreen
- Voice control and dictation for hands-free interaction (Apple's Voice Control, Google's Voice Access)
- Visual notifications and closed captions for users with hearing impairments
Web accessibility standards
- (WCAG) provide technical standards for creating accessible websites and web applications
- WCAG covers principles like perceivable content, operable interface elements, understandable information, and robust compatibility with assistive technologies
- Implementing WCAG helps ensure that web content is accessible to users with a wide range of disabilities
Legal requirements for accessibility
- Many countries have laws and regulations that require digital products and services to be accessible to people with disabilities
- These legal requirements help ensure equal access to information, communication, and opportunities for people with disabilities
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and places open to the general public
- Title III of the ADA requires that businesses and nonprofit service providers make accessibility accommodations to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to goods and services
- While the ADA does not explicitly mention websites, courts have interpreted the law to apply to digital spaces and services
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
- Section 508 requires that all electronic and information technology developed, procured, maintained, or used by the federal government be accessible to people with disabilities
- This includes websites, software applications, and hardware devices used by federal employees or the public
- Many states have adopted similar accessibility requirements for state-funded technology projects
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
- WCAG is a set of technical standards for creating accessible web content, developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)
- WCAG 2.1 is the current version, with success criteria organized under four principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust
- Many countries and organizations have adopted WCAG as the legal standard for web accessibility compliance
Ethical considerations
- Beyond legal requirements, there are important ethical considerations around accessibility and inclusion in technology
- As digital products and services become increasingly central to daily life, ensuring equal access is a matter of social justice and human rights
Digital divide and accessibility
- The refers to the gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technology and those who do not
- People with disabilities are often disproportionately affected by the digital divide, facing barriers to access and participation in digital spaces
- Prioritizing accessibility helps bridge the digital divide and ensure that people with disabilities are not left behind in an increasingly technology-dependent world
Balancing accessibility and innovation
- There can be tensions between pushing the boundaries of technological innovation and ensuring that new technologies are accessible to all users
- However, accessibility and innovation are not inherently at odds; designing with accessibility in mind can often lead to more intuitive, user-friendly solutions that benefit everyone
- Balancing accessibility and innovation requires a commitment to inclusive design practices and a willingness to prioritize user needs over purely technical or aesthetic considerations
Inclusive user research and testing
- To create truly accessible and inclusive technology, it is essential to involve people with disabilities in the design and development process
- Inclusive user research means actively seeking out and engaging with users who have a wide range of abilities and experiences
- Conducting accessibility testing with users who have disabilities can help identify barriers and opportunities for improvement that may not be apparent to non-disabled designers and developers
- Inclusive research and testing help ensure that the final product meets the needs of all users, not just a narrow subset of the population
Implementing accessible technology
- Incorporating accessibility into technology products and services requires a holistic approach that considers accessibility at every stage of the development process
- This includes setting clear accessibility goals, involving diverse users in research and testing, and providing ongoing training and support for employees
Accessibility in product development
- Accessibility should be a key consideration from the earliest stages of product ideation and design
- This means defining accessibility requirements alongside other product specifications and prioritizing accessibility features in the development roadmap
- Accessibility testing should be integrated into the quality assurance process, with dedicated time and resources for identifying and resolving accessibility issues
Training and awareness for employees
- Creating accessible technology requires buy-in and participation from employees across the organization, not just the design and development teams
- Providing accessibility training for all employees helps build awareness and understanding of accessibility principles and best practices
- This can include general awareness training for all staff, as well as more specialized training for roles like content creators, customer support, and product managers
Continuous improvement and updates
- Accessibility is an ongoing process, not a one-time checklist or certification
- As technology evolves and new accessibility standards emerge, it is important to continuously assess and update products and services to ensure they remain accessible
- This requires a commitment to monitoring industry trends, engaging with the disability community, and prioritizing accessibility in product roadmaps and budgets
Business benefits of accessibility
- Beyond the ethical and legal imperatives, prioritizing accessibility can also bring significant business benefits for technology companies
- By designing products that are usable by the widest possible range of people, companies can expand their market reach, improve user satisfaction, and differentiate themselves from competitors
Expanded market reach
- The global population of people with disabilities is estimated to be over 1 billion, representing a significant untapped market for accessible products and services
- By designing for accessibility, companies can expand their potential customer base and reach new markets that may be underserved by competitors
- Accessible products often have broader appeal beyond the disability community, as they tend to be more user-friendly and intuitive for all users
Improved user experience and loyalty
- When products are accessible and easy to use, customers are more likely to have a positive experience and develop loyalty to the brand
- Accessible design principles like clear navigation, intuitive controls, and multiple input options can benefit all users, not just those with disabilities
- By prioritizing accessibility, companies can improve overall user satisfaction and reduce customer churn
Positive brand reputation and PR
- Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility and inclusion can help companies build a positive brand reputation and generate goodwill among customers and the public
- Accessible products and inclusive hiring practices can be powerful PR stories that showcase a company's values and social responsibility
- In an era of increasing consumer demand for ethical and socially conscious brands, accessibility can be a key differentiator and competitive advantage
Challenges and limitations
- While the benefits of accessible technology are clear, there are also challenges and limitations that companies may face in implementing accessibility initiatives
- These challenges can include technical constraints, resource limitations, and competing priorities within the organization
Legacy systems and compatibility
- Many companies have existing technology systems and platforms that were not built with accessibility in mind
- Retrofitting these legacy systems to meet accessibility standards can be a complex and resource-intensive process
- Ensuring compatibility between newer, accessible technologies and older, non-accessible systems can also present technical challenges and require significant development effort
Costs and resource allocation
- Implementing accessibility features and testing can require additional time, personnel, and financial resources compared to traditional product development
- For smaller companies or those with limited budgets, allocating sufficient resources to accessibility initiatives may be a challenge
- Balancing the costs of accessibility with other business priorities requires a strong commitment from leadership and a clear understanding of the long-term benefits
Balancing accessibility and aesthetics
- In some cases, there may be tensions between creating an accessible user interface and achieving certain aesthetic or branding goals
- Accessibility features like high-contrast color schemes, large text sizes, and simplified layouts may not always align with a company's established visual identity
- Finding ways to balance accessibility and aesthetics requires creativity, flexibility, and a willingness to prioritize user needs over purely visual considerations
- Ultimately, the goal should be to create products that are both accessible and appealing, demonstrating that inclusive design can be beautiful and functional
Key Terms to Review (23)
Accessible e-commerce: Accessible e-commerce refers to online shopping platforms designed to be usable by all individuals, including those with disabilities. This concept emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive digital experiences that comply with accessibility standards and guidelines, ensuring that everyone can navigate, interact with, and complete transactions on e-commerce websites. Accessible e-commerce not only focuses on usability but also encompasses design elements that accommodate various needs, enhancing the overall customer experience.
Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark piece of legislation enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places open to the general public. The ADA aims to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, promoting accessible technology and universal design principles that cater to diverse needs and fostering inclusivity within organizations through employee resource groups and allyship initiatives.
Assistive technology: Assistive technology refers to devices, software, or equipment that help individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. This technology is essential in promoting accessibility and enhancing the quality of life for users, as it can include anything from screen readers and speech recognition software to specialized communication devices. By integrating assistive technology into various environments, it's possible to support a more inclusive society that values universal design principles.
Captioning software: Captioning software is a tool that enables the creation, editing, and display of text captions for audio and video content. This technology enhances accessibility by providing visual text representation of spoken dialogue and other audio cues, ensuring that deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals can fully engage with multimedia. It plays a critical role in universal design, promoting inclusivity in digital content by ensuring that information is available to everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Digital divide: The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals and communities that have access to modern information and communication technology and those that do not. This divide can be influenced by various factors such as socioeconomic status, geographic location, age, and education level, affecting how people participate in an increasingly digital world.
Digital Equity: Digital equity refers to the principle of ensuring that all individuals have equal access to digital technologies, resources, and opportunities. It emphasizes the need to bridge the digital divide, which can arise from socioeconomic factors, disabilities, or geographical barriers, so everyone can fully participate in a digital society. Achieving digital equity involves making technology accessible and usable for all, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in the digital realm.
Equitable Use: Equitable use refers to the principle that all individuals should have equal access to technology and information, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This concept emphasizes that technology should be designed and implemented in a way that enables everyone to benefit from it equally, promoting inclusivity and fairness in digital spaces.
Flexibility in use: Flexibility in use refers to the design principle that allows various users to interact with a technology or system in multiple ways, accommodating a wide range of individual preferences and abilities. This approach not only enhances user experience but also ensures that different people, including those with disabilities, can engage with the technology effectively. It promotes inclusivity by allowing adaptations based on users' unique needs, preferences, and contexts.
Inaccessible design: Inaccessible design refers to products, services, or environments that are not usable or navigable by individuals with disabilities. This concept highlights the barriers created by poor design choices, which can exclude people from fully participating in various activities or accessing information. Inaccessible design often overlooks the needs of users with diverse abilities, leading to social inequities and diminished opportunities for those affected.
Inclusive web design: Inclusive web design is an approach that ensures websites and digital interfaces are accessible and usable for everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. It focuses on creating a positive user experience for all by considering diverse needs, preferences, and contexts of users, including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive challenges.
Low physical effort: Low physical effort refers to the design principle that ensures products and environments can be used with minimal physical strain. This principle is important in creating accessible technology and universal design, enabling users of all abilities to interact with various systems without facing unnecessary challenges. By prioritizing low physical effort, designs can accommodate people with disabilities, older adults, and anyone who might struggle with high physical demands.
Perceptible Information: Perceptible information refers to data that is presented in a way that can be easily perceived and understood by all users, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This type of information is crucial in ensuring that technology is accessible to everyone, as it allows for the inclusion of diverse sensory experiences such as visual, auditory, and tactile means. Effective perceptible information enables users to receive and interpret content in a manner that suits their individual needs, promoting a more inclusive digital environment.
Ron Mace: Ron Mace was an influential architect and designer known for his pioneering work in the field of universal design, which focuses on creating environments and products that are accessible to all people, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. His advocacy for accessible design has greatly impacted how buildings and technologies are structured, promoting inclusivity in various aspects of life.
Screen readers: Screen readers are assistive technology tools that convert digital text into synthesized speech or Braille output, enabling visually impaired individuals to access and interact with content on computers and mobile devices. By reading aloud text displayed on the screen, they help users navigate websites, applications, and documents, making information more accessible and promoting inclusivity in the digital environment.
Sharron Rush: Sharron Rush is a prominent advocate for accessible technology and universal design, known for her work in promoting digital accessibility for individuals with disabilities. She co-founded Knowbility, an organization that focuses on ensuring equal access to technology for everyone, regardless of their abilities. Through her efforts, Rush has significantly influenced the conversation around making digital content and tools more inclusive.
Simple and intuitive: Simple and intuitive refers to design principles that prioritize ease of use and straightforward understanding for users. This concept emphasizes creating interfaces and technologies that minimize complexity, allowing users to navigate and utilize them effortlessly. By focusing on simplicity and intuitive design, products can enhance accessibility and user experience for a diverse range of individuals, including those with varying abilities.
Size and Space for Approach and Use: Size and space for approach and use refers to the design principles that ensure environments, products, and systems can be accessed and utilized by individuals of various abilities. This concept emphasizes that physical spaces must accommodate different body sizes, postures, and approaches to enhance usability and accessibility for all users, which aligns with the goals of accessible technology and universal design.
Social Inclusion: Social inclusion refers to the process of improving the terms of participation in society for marginalized groups, ensuring that everyone has access to resources, opportunities, and networks. It emphasizes the importance of removing barriers that prevent individuals from fully participating in economic, social, and political life. Through social inclusion, communities aim to foster diversity and equality, allowing all individuals to thrive regardless of their background or abilities.
Tolerance for error: Tolerance for error refers to the degree to which a system or design can accommodate mistakes or failures without causing severe consequences. This concept is crucial in creating accessible technology and universal design, as it allows users to engage with systems in a way that recognizes their limitations and provides second chances for success. A high tolerance for error means that if a user makes a mistake, the consequences are minimized, promoting inclusivity and usability for individuals of varying abilities.
Universal Access: Universal access refers to the principle of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their abilities or circumstances, can obtain and use technology and services effectively. This concept is integral to promoting inclusivity, as it emphasizes the need for accessible technology that accommodates diverse user needs, aligning with the values of universal design which focuses on creating products and environments usable by all people.
Universal Design: Universal Design is a concept that refers to creating products and environments that are accessible and usable by all people, regardless of their age, ability, or status. This approach promotes inclusivity by considering the diverse needs of users from the outset, ensuring that everyone can benefit from the design without the need for adaptation or specialized solutions.
User-centered design: User-centered design is a design process that prioritizes the needs, preferences, and limitations of end-users at every stage of the development process. This approach aims to create products that are not only functional but also user-friendly, enhancing usability and overall satisfaction. By focusing on users' experiences, designers can develop solutions that are more effective and efficient in meeting their needs.
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a set of international standards aimed at making web content more accessible to people with disabilities. These guidelines focus on enhancing usability by ensuring that websites can be navigated and understood by all users, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. WCAG emphasizes the importance of creating a digital environment that is inclusive, ultimately supporting the principles of accessible technology and universal design.