Accessibility is not binary. It is conditional, and it’s rare that something is universally accessible. For example, something can be functional, but annoying to use and that would be sort-of accessible. Some people’s support needs contradict each other, so something can be accessible to one person, but not another.
Engaging in accessibility work means honoring many different user needs as you make decisions. Part of the process is accepting that your results will be imperfect, but you can improve as time goes on.
Accessibility vs Usability
Accessibility and usability are different. Even if someone can access your work, if they can’t find it on the website, or if it’s frustrating to wade through the information, they are unlikely to actually see it.
Multimodality
Multimodality means that something can be accessed or used through multiple modes. Here are some examples:
- A website that can be operated by mouse, keyboard, mobile phone, and/or screen reader.
- An article that is published both in writing and as a podcast.
- An in-person event with options to participate online (also known as a “hybrid” event).
Multimodality is key to accommodating a variety of users, especially when their support needs contradict each other.
Universal Design Principles
Universal Design is a framework that encourages designers to make their work as accessible as possible to different audiences, with a focus on accommodating diverse disabilities. Learn more about Universal Design here.
There are seven principles of Universal Design. Here are a select few:
Principle 2:
Flexibility in Use
The design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
Principle 3:
Simple and Intuitive Use
Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level.
Principle 4:
Perceptible Information
The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.