7.6 Accessibility and inclusive design
8 min read•august 19, 2024
and are crucial for creating equitable access to cultural heritage resources. These approaches ensure that digital platforms and experiences are usable by people with diverse abilities, fostering participation from all audiences.
Accessibility focuses on making content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Inclusive design goes further, proactively considering diverse user needs throughout the design process. Together, they create more engaging and meaningful digital experiences for everyone.
Defining accessibility and inclusive design
- Accessibility in the context of digital art history and cultural heritage ensures that digital resources, platforms, and experiences are usable by people with diverse abilities and disabilities
- Inclusive design goes beyond accessibility compliance, proactively considering the needs and perspectives of a wide range of users throughout the design process
- Both accessibility and inclusive design are essential for creating equitable access to digital cultural heritage and fostering participation from diverse audiences
Principles of accessible design
Perceivable vs operable content
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- Perceivable content can be accessed through multiple senses (sight, hearing, touch) and is compatible with assistive technologies
- Examples include providing alternative text for images, captions for videos, and transcripts for audio content
- Operable content can be navigated and interacted with using various input methods (keyboard, mouse, touch, voice) and allows users to control timing and pace
- Examples include ensuring keyboard accessibility, providing clear navigation, and allowing users to pause or stop media
Understandable vs robust interfaces
- Understandable interfaces use clear, concise language, provide context and explanations, and offer predictable and consistent interactions
- Examples include using plain language, providing instructions and feedback, and maintaining a logical structure and flow
- Robust interfaces are compatible with current and future technologies, adhere to web standards, and gracefully handle errors or unexpected user actions
- Examples include using valid HTML and CSS, testing across browsers and devices, and providing fallback options for unsupported features
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
WCAG conformance levels
- defines three levels of conformance: A (lowest), AA (mid-range), and AAA (highest)
- Each level builds upon the previous one, with increasing requirements for accessibility
- Most organizations aim for WCAG 2.1 Level AA conformance, which is considered the industry standard and is often legally required
WCAG success criteria
- WCAG success criteria are specific, testable statements that define the requirements for each guideline
- There are 78 success criteria organized under 13 guidelines and 4 principles (perceivable, operable, understandable, robust)
- Examples of success criteria include providing captions for prerecorded audio content (1.2.2), ensuring a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for text (1.4.3), and allowing users to extend time limits (2.2.1)
Accessibility testing tools and techniques
Manual vs automated testing
- Manual testing involves human evaluators using assistive technologies, keyboard navigation, and other methods to assess the accessibility of a digital resource
- Examples include testing with , navigating with a keyboard, and checking color contrast
- Automated testing uses software tools to scan a website or application for accessibility issues and generate reports
- Examples of automated testing tools include WAVE, aXe, and Lighthouse
Accessibility evaluation methods
- Accessibility evaluation methods include conformance review (checking against WCAG success criteria), user testing (involving people with disabilities), and (assessing ease of use and effectiveness)
- A comprehensive accessibility evaluation often combines multiple methods to identify and prioritize issues
- Involving people with disabilities throughout the design and testing process is crucial for ensuring real-world accessibility and inclusive experiences
Inclusive design considerations
Designing for diverse abilities
- Inclusive design considers the needs and perspectives of users with a wide range of abilities, including visual, auditory, motor, and
- Designers should also consider situational and temporary disabilities, such as limited mobility due to injury or impaired vision due to bright sunlight
- Inclusive design benefits all users by providing multiple ways to access and interact with digital content and experiences
Inclusive design principles
- Inclusive design principles include flexibility (offering choices and accommodating preferences), simplicity (reducing complexity and cognitive load), and equitability (ensuring comparable experiences for all users)
- Other key principles include perceptibility (making information easy to perceive), tolerance for error (minimizing the consequences of mistakes), and low physical effort (minimizing sustained physical exertion)
- Applying these principles throughout the design process helps create digital resources that are usable, engaging, and meaningful for diverse audiences
Accessibility in digital art and cultural heritage
Accessible digital exhibits and collections
- and collections provide multiple ways to explore and engage with artworks, artifacts, and historical materials
- Examples include providing audio descriptions for visual content, offering transcripts and captions for multimedia, and enabling keyboard navigation for interactive features
- Accessibility considerations should be integrated from the early stages of exhibit planning and design, rather than as an afterthought or retrofitted solution
- Collaborating with disability communities and accessibility experts can help ensure that digital exhibits are inclusive and meet the needs of diverse audiences
Inclusive virtual museum experiences
- go beyond basic accessibility to create immersive, engaging, and equitable digital environments for all visitors
- Examples include providing multiple modes of exploration (guided tours, self-directed browsing), offering personalization options (adjusting display settings, saving preferences), and enabling social interaction (commenting, sharing)
- Designing inclusive virtual experiences requires a deep understanding of user needs, preferences, and behaviors, as well as a commitment to continuous improvement based on feedback and data
- Inclusive virtual museums have the potential to reach and engage new audiences, foster cultural understanding, and promote social inclusion
Assistive technologies for digital accessibility
Screen readers and magnifiers
- Screen readers are software programs that convert text and other visual content into synthesized speech or braille output for users who are blind or visually impaired
- Examples of screen readers include JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver
- are software programs that enlarge a portion of the screen for users with low vision
- Examples of screen magnifiers include ZoomText and MAGic
Alternative input devices
- enable users with motor disabilities or limited mobility to navigate and interact with digital content
- Examples include adaptive keyboards (with larger keys or custom layouts), eye-gaze trackers (that allow users to control a cursor with eye movements), and voice recognition software (that converts speech into text or commands)
- Designing for compatibility with alternative input devices involves ensuring that all functionality is available through multiple methods (keyboard, voice, etc.) and providing clear visual and auditory feedback
Accessible multimedia and interactivity
Captioning and audio description
- provides a text alternative for audio content, including speech, sound effects, and other relevant information
- Captions can be closed (turned on or off by the user) or open (always visible) and should be synchronized with the audio and video
- provides a spoken narration of visual content, including actions, settings, and other relevant details
- Audio description is typically provided during pauses in dialogue and can be delivered through a separate audio track or integrated into the main soundtrack
Accessible interactive features
- Accessible interactive features enable users with disabilities to participate fully in digital experiences, such as simulations, games, and virtual tours
- Examples include providing keyboard-accessible controls, offering multiple difficulty levels or assistance options, and allowing users to customize display and input settings
- Designing accessible interactivity requires considering the needs and preferences of users with a wide range of abilities and testing with diverse user groups to ensure usability and engagement
- Accessible interactive features can enhance learning, creativity, and social connection for all users, while promoting inclusion and equity in digital art and cultural heritage
Legal requirements for digital accessibility
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation, and access to public and private spaces
- While the ADA does not specifically mention digital accessibility, courts have interpreted the law to apply to websites and other digital platforms
- Organizations that fail to provide accessible digital resources may face legal action, financial penalties, and reputational damage
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
- Section 508 is a federal law that requires all electronic and information technology developed, procured, maintained, or used by the federal government to be accessible to people with disabilities
- The Section 508 standards are based on the WCAG and provide specific technical and functional criteria for various types of digital content and applications
- While Section 508 applies directly to federal agencies, many states and organizations have adopted similar requirements for digital accessibility
Integrating accessibility into design workflows
Accessibility in agile development
- Agile development is an iterative approach that emphasizes collaboration, flexibility, and continuous improvement
- Integrating accessibility into agile workflows involves including accessibility requirements in user stories, conducting regular accessibility testing, and prioritizing accessibility fixes in each sprint
- Accessibility should be a shared responsibility among all team members, with dedicated accessibility champions or experts providing guidance and support
Collaborating with disability communities
- Collaborating with disability communities is essential for understanding real-world accessibility needs, gathering feedback on designs, and promoting inclusive innovation
- Collaboration can take many forms, such as conducting user research with people with disabilities, involving accessibility experts in design reviews, and partnering with disability organizations on outreach and education
- Engaging with disability communities throughout the design process helps ensure that digital art and cultural heritage resources are not only technically accessible but also meaningful, relevant, and empowering for diverse audiences
Case studies of accessible digital art and heritage projects
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art's "AccessMet" project provides verbal descriptions, touch tours, and other accessibility features for selected artworks and galleries
- The project includes a mobile app with audio descriptions, enlarged images, and customizable display settings, as well as in-person programs for visitors with disabilities
- The British Museum's "VocalEyes" project offers audio-described tours of exhibits and collections for blind and partially sighted visitors
- The tours are delivered by trained audio describers and cover key objects, themes, and historical context, providing an engaging and informative experience for all visitors
- The Smithsonian Institution's "Access Smithsonian" program includes a range of accessibility initiatives across its museums and cultural heritage sites
- Examples include the "Morning at the Museum" program for visitors with sensory processing disabilities, the "See Me at the Smithsonian" app for visitors with cognitive disabilities, and the "SHHH!" (Smithsonian Heritage and History for the Hearing-impaired) program for deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors
- These case studies demonstrate the potential for accessible digital art and heritage projects to create inclusive, engaging, and meaningful experiences for diverse audiences, while promoting cultural understanding and social inclusion.
Key Terms to Review (27)
Accessibility audits: Accessibility audits are systematic evaluations of digital and physical environments to assess their compliance with accessibility standards and guidelines. These audits identify barriers that may prevent individuals with disabilities from effectively accessing content or services, ensuring that design is inclusive for everyone. By analyzing usability, navigation, and content structure, accessibility audits play a critical role in promoting equitable access in various settings.
Accessible digital exhibits: Accessible digital exhibits are online displays of cultural or historical artifacts designed to be usable by people with varying abilities and disabilities. This involves implementing features such as alternative text for images, keyboard navigation, and screen reader compatibility, ensuring that all users can experience and engage with the content. By focusing on inclusive design principles, these exhibits promote equal access to information and cultural heritage for everyone.
ADA Compliance: ADA compliance refers to the adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which mandates that individuals with disabilities have equal access to all public and private spaces, including digital environments. This compliance is crucial for ensuring that websites, applications, and other digital content are accessible to people with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunity. By following ADA guidelines, organizations can create an online experience that accommodates a diverse range of users, fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusive design.
Adaptive interfaces: Adaptive interfaces are dynamic systems that adjust their layout, content, or functionality based on the needs and preferences of individual users. This personalization aims to enhance user experience by making technology more accessible and inclusive, especially for those with varying abilities and backgrounds. By responding to user interactions and environmental factors, adaptive interfaces can significantly improve usability and engagement.
Alt text: Alt text, or alternative text, is a textual description that is added to an image in digital content, primarily serving to improve accessibility for individuals who may not be able to see the images. It allows screen readers to convey the image's meaning and context to visually impaired users, making digital content more inclusive. Additionally, alt text can provide information when images fail to load, enhancing user experience across various devices and platforms.
Alternative input devices: Alternative input devices are specialized hardware tools that allow users to interact with computers and digital systems in non-traditional ways. These devices cater to individuals with disabilities or specific needs by providing alternative methods of input that enhance accessibility and usability. They can include various technologies such as adaptive keyboards, eye-tracking systems, and speech recognition software that facilitate interaction for those who may struggle with standard input methods like a mouse or keyboard.
Assistive technology: Assistive technology refers to any device, software, or equipment that helps individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. This includes tools designed to enhance mobility, communication, learning, and daily living skills, ultimately aiming to improve accessibility and promote independence for users. By integrating these technologies, inclusive design becomes a priority, ensuring that everyone has equal access to information and environments.
Audio description: Audio description is an accessibility feature that provides verbal narration of visual elements in various media, including films, television shows, and live performances. This narration describes key visual information, such as actions, settings, and facial expressions, to enhance understanding for individuals with visual impairments. By incorporating audio descriptions, creators aim to promote inclusivity and ensure that their content is accessible to a wider audience.
Captioning: Captioning is the process of displaying text on a screen to provide a textual representation of spoken dialogue and relevant non-verbal sounds. It enhances accessibility by allowing individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to understand audio content in videos, films, or live broadcasts, while also benefiting non-native speakers and viewers in noisy environments. Captioning can take several forms, including closed captions, which can be turned on or off, and open captions, which are always visible.
Cognitive disabilities: Cognitive disabilities refer to a range of conditions that impact an individual's ability to think, learn, reason, and process information. These disabilities can affect memory, attention, problem-solving, and comprehension skills, which can create barriers to effective learning and engagement in various environments. Understanding cognitive disabilities is essential for promoting accessibility and inclusive design, ensuring that all individuals can participate meaningfully in society.
Community engagement: Community engagement refers to the process of involving individuals and groups in decision-making and activities that affect their lives, fostering collaboration and shared ownership. It encompasses various approaches, such as inviting input, building partnerships, and creating opportunities for participation, ultimately aiming to strengthen relationships within the community and enhance social cohesion. Effective community engagement can lead to better outcomes by ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in initiatives.
Digital accessibility: Digital accessibility refers to the practice of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, can access and interact with digital content and technologies. This includes websites, applications, and digital resources, which should be designed to accommodate various needs, enabling full participation for users with disabilities. The goal is to create inclusive environments that remove barriers and provide equal access to information and experiences.
Inclusive design: Inclusive design is a design approach that aims to create products, services, and environments accessible and usable by all people, regardless of their age, ability, or status. This approach goes beyond mere compliance with accessibility standards; it emphasizes understanding the diverse needs of users and integrating those considerations throughout the design process. By focusing on inclusivity, designers can enhance user experiences and ensure equitable access to various resources.
Inclusive virtual museum experiences: Inclusive virtual museum experiences refer to online platforms that provide equitable access to cultural heritage, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, can engage with and appreciate museum collections. These experiences prioritize accessibility and user-friendly design to cater to a wide range of needs, promoting broader participation in cultural activities and fostering a sense of belonging within the digital space.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a theoretical framework that examines how various social identities, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, intersect and interact to create unique experiences of discrimination or privilege. This concept emphasizes that individuals may face multiple overlapping forms of oppression, which cannot be understood by examining each identity separately. By recognizing these complexities, intersectionality informs more inclusive practices in areas like accessibility and design.
Multiculturalism: Multiculturalism is the presence and acknowledgment of diverse cultural identities within a society, promoting equal respect and appreciation for various cultural backgrounds. This concept emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and representation, especially in environments like design, where multiple perspectives can enhance accessibility and user experience for everyone, regardless of their cultural identity or ability.
Participatory design: Participatory design is a collaborative approach that actively involves all stakeholders, particularly users, in the design process to ensure that the final product meets their needs and preferences. This method emphasizes co-creation and shared ownership, allowing participants to contribute their insights and experiences, which can lead to more effective and user-friendly outcomes. By integrating diverse perspectives, participatory design fosters innovation and helps create solutions that are more relevant and inclusive.
Screen magnifiers: Screen magnifiers are assistive technology tools that enlarge the content displayed on computer screens, making it easier for individuals with visual impairments to access and interact with digital information. These tools can adjust the size of text and images, enhancing readability and user experience, and often come with additional features such as color contrast adjustments and cursor enhancements.
Screen reader compatibility: Screen reader compatibility refers to the ability of digital content and interfaces to be effectively interpreted and navigated by screen reading software, which converts text and other visual elements into synthesized speech or Braille output for users with visual impairments. Ensuring screen reader compatibility is a crucial aspect of web accessibility and inclusive design, enabling people with disabilities to access information and interact with digital environments just like their sighted peers.
Screen readers: Screen readers are assistive technology programs that convert digital text into synthesized speech or Braille, enabling visually impaired users to access and navigate digital content. These tools are vital for promoting accessibility and inclusive design, ensuring that individuals with visual impairments can interact with websites, applications, and documents effectively.
Tim Berners-Lee: Tim Berners-Lee is a computer scientist best known for inventing the World Wide Web, which revolutionized how information is accessed and shared online. His work laid the foundation for the development of linked open data, enabling the connection and integration of data across different platforms, and emphasizing the importance of accessibility in web design to ensure that everyone can access online information regardless of their abilities.
Universal Design: Universal design refers to the creation of products and environments that are accessible and usable by all people, regardless of their age, ability, or status. This concept emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that everyone can engage with digital platforms and cultural heritage sites without barriers. It is a guiding principle in ethical considerations for digital heritage projects, as well as a crucial aspect of accessibility and inclusive design.
Usability testing: Usability testing is a method used to evaluate how easy and user-friendly a product, such as an interactive display or application, is for its intended audience. This process often involves observing real users as they interact with the product to identify any challenges or areas for improvement. By focusing on user experience, usability testing can enhance the design and effectiveness of various interactive technologies, ensuring that they are accessible and inclusive for all users.
Visual impairment: Visual impairment refers to a significant loss of vision that cannot be corrected with standard glasses or contact lenses. This condition can range from partial sight to complete blindness and affects how individuals perceive the world around them. It is crucial to understand visual impairment in the context of creating environments and designs that are accessible and inclusive for all users.
W3C: The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is an international community that develops open standards to ensure the long-term growth of the web. Founded in 1994, W3C plays a crucial role in promoting accessibility and inclusive design, enabling all users to access and benefit from web content regardless of their abilities or disabilities. By establishing guidelines and best practices, W3C helps create a more equitable digital environment.
WCAG: WCAG stands for the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, which are a set of recommendations designed to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. These guidelines help ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the web. By following WCAG, designers and developers create a more inclusive digital environment, which is essential for fostering accessibility in virtual experiences and interfaces.
Web accessibility: Web accessibility refers to the practice of ensuring that websites and web applications are usable by people with disabilities. This includes making content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for users with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. The goal is to create an inclusive digital environment that allows everyone to access and benefit from online resources without barriers.