What is accessibility?

The word ‘accessibility’ is generally used in relation to people with disabilities.

Digital accessibility means that websites, tools and technologies are designed and developed so that disabled people can use them. 

An accessible website or app is one that people with a diverse range of hearing, movement, sight, and cognitive ability can use.

Accessibility is now a growing discipline in many companies that care about inclusion. 

Social model vs Medical model

The medical model says people are disabled by their impairments or difference, whereas the social model is a way of viewing the world, developed and preferred by the disabled community. 

The social model helps us recognise barriers that make life harder for disabled people. Removing these barriers creates equality and offers disabled people more independence, choice and control.

Inclusive design

By designing with everyone in mind, we create products that work for everyone. 

Inclusive design is the methodology we embrace to consider the full range of human diversity with respect to ability, culture, gender, age, ethnicity, and other forms of human difference. It should be a Designer’s core objective. 

When done well, inclusive design leads to products that are barrier-free, giving everyone a beautiful, equitable experience.

For more information, visit our Partner Accessibility Hub