Did you know that over 1 billion people across the globe live with disabilities?

Yet, the sad reality is that many of today’s digital products fail to serve this vast community effectively. Each year, as we observe Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) on May 16, we are reminded of the urgency to promote digital access and inclusion for everyone.

Why Inclusive Design Matters

Implementing inclusive design isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s a strategic business decision that can lead to increased revenue, reduced costs, improved resilience, and stronger trust with both customers and employees. However, to truly implement inclusive design, it’s imperative that companies embrace inclusive research practices from the get-go.

Shockingly, a recent Forrester survey revealed that only 29% of North American businesses actively seek feedback from individuals with disabilities on their products. Many companies settle for quick fixes to meet accessibility requirements, neglecting the critical research needed to understand the actual needs of people with disabilities.

Reaching Diverse Participants

To make your research genuinely inclusive, it’s essential to engage a broad spectrum of participants. Inclusive recruitment is key! When screening for participants, be transparent about your intentions. For instance, if you’re inquiring about disabilities, clarify that it's to gain better insights into your customer base. Moreover, ask if they utilize any assistive technologies—this will help tailor your research approach effectively.

Utilizing accessible platforms for conducting research is vital. Some organizations partner with accessibility experts like Fable and Knowbility to connect with panels of individuals who have disabilities for valuable insights.

Effective companies dedicated to inclusive design also track participant demographics to ensure they are engaging a diverse set of voices. Start by reviewing past studies to identify gaps in representation and strive for a wider inclusion in your future research.

Building Empathy Through Engagement

Crafting empathy is critical in understanding your customers. Instead of relying solely on assumptions, involve customers directly throughout the design process. Empathy tools such as personas might help conceptualize your audience, but these still rely on adequate research to avoid pitfalls of pre-conceived notions.

Unfortunately, traditional empathy workshops—where participants simulate disabilities (like using blindfolds)—often backfire. Instead of gaining valuable insights, they mostly leave participants with frustration and misunderstanding. Rather than simulating experiences, the real value lies in engaging with individuals who possess disabilities, observing their interactions with your products, and focusing on genuine user-centered solutions.

Valuing Employee Insights

Your employees are your most valuable asset, especially when it comes to fostering an inclusive environment. They understand your company’s core values, products, and target market. When employees provide feedback, particularly those with disabilities, it can highlight accessibility challenges early in the product development cycle.

Additionally, actively fostering a culture of inclusivity signals to employees that their thoughts are valuable. Encouraging employee resource groups is a fantastic way to open up dialogues surrounding accessibility and find solutions to improve the customer experience.

Join the Movement for Accessibility!

The journey towards creating inclusive experiences doesn't have to be daunting. By integrating inclusive research practices, consulting with diverse participants, and valuing employee feedback, companies can pave the way for a truly accessible digital landscape. So, why wait? Embrace inclusivity today, and watch your business thrive like never before!