March 4, 2017
As a product designer navigating the exciting and ever-evolving landscape of digital creation and problem-solving, one principle has emerged as not just a design choice but a moral imperative: accessibility. In a world where technology connects us more than ever, the importance of creating products that are inclusive and cater to diverse needs cannot be overstated.
Designing for accessibility is not merely about complying with regulations or ticking checkboxes; it’s about recognizing the power we wield as designers to shape experiences for everyone, regardless of their abilities. The digital realm is our canvas, and it’s high time we embrace the responsibility that comes with it.
Imagine using an app without the ability to see, or relying on a screen reader to interpret the visual elements. How about using a financial app as someone who is dyslexic or just finds numbers intimidating?
It’s a stark reminder that our designs aren’t just pixels on a screen; they’re pathways to information, services, and connections. The journey toward accessibility is a journey toward a more humane, considerate, and inclusive digital world.
So, where does one begin on this quest for inclusivity in design? Let’s break it down into a comprehensive guide, a roadmap for product designers like myself who are eager to make a positive impact.
Understanding User Diversity
The first step on our accessibility journey is acknowledging the diverse needs of our users. Disabilities come in various forms, from visual and auditory impairments to motor and cognitive challenges. By understanding these diverse needs, we can design with empathy, ensuring our products cater to a broad spectrum of users.
Prioritizing Inclusive Design Principles
Inclusive design is not an afterthought; it’s a foundational principle. It involves considering accessibility from the outset, ensuring that every user, regardless of ability, can engage with and benefit from the product. It’s about avoiding barriers rather than retrofitting solutions.
Navigating the WCAG Guidelines
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the North Star for accessible design. They provide a set of guidelines and success criteria to help designers create more accessible digital experiences. While they may seem daunting at first, integrating WCAG principles into our design process becomes more intuitive with practice.
Leveraging Assistive Technologies
Understanding and incorporating assistive technologies is crucial. Screen readers, voice commands, and other assistive tools are lifelines for many users. By designing with these technologies in mind, we can ensure a seamless experience for everyone.
Embracing Simplicity and Minimalism
In the ever-evolving landscape of product design, where features often compete for attention like eager performers on a crowded stage, there’s a timeless principle that continues to shine through the chaos: less is more.
I am an advocate for clutter-free interfaces that guide users seamlessly through their journey, with only the essential elements capturing their attention. It’s not about a lack of creativity or a minimalist aesthetic for its own sake; it’s about distilling the user experience to its core, ensuring that every interaction serves a purpose.
Testing and Iteration
Accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Regular testing, including usability testing with individuals with disabilities, is essential. This iterative process allows us to identify and address accessibility challenges, refining our designs to be more inclusive with each iteration.
Advocacy within the design community
As product designers, we hold a unique position to advocate for accessibility within our design teams and the broader community. By fostering a culture that prioritizes inclusivity, we can contribute to a collective mindset shift towards designing for everyone.
The Bottom Line: A Better User Experience for All
Designing for accessibility isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about creating a better user experience for everyone. An accessible design isn’t a compromise; it’s an elevation of our craft. It challenges us to think beyond the conventional and opens up new creative avenues, resulting in products that are not only usable but delightful for a diverse audience.
So let’s champion accessibility as a core value in our work. By doing so, we not only create better products but also contribute to a digital landscape that truly reflects the richness and diversity of the human experience.
The journey toward designing accessible products is an ongoing process, a commitment to constant improvement. As mid-level product designers, let's champion accessibility as a core value in our work. By doing so, we not only create better products but also contribute to a digital landscape that truly reflects the richness and diversity of the human experience.