"For people without disabilities, technology makes things easier. For people with disabilities, technology makes things possible."

This phrase emphasizes the value of all users contributing to the development of design. Experience designers always have to keep one thing in mind: technology is continually evolving. Thus, we believe it is necessary to aid everyone in adapting to new forms of digital engagement and experience. In addition, we think Inclusive design is crucial in the modern era. There are several benefits to a company in the long run for accepting and celebrating diversity. User satisfaction is increased since a much bigger audience's demands are met when designing for accessibility. This widens a company's pool of possible buyers and opens up fresh avenues for expansion.

When we endeavor to create an inclusive design, a universal design is in the process of being created. This merely indicates that nobody is excluded on the basis of their abilities. It recognizes the significance of designing products, services, and environments with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, cognitive limitations, and neurodiversity in mind. By adhering to universal design principles, designers can create experiences that provide individuals with varying abilities equal opportunities to access, use, and appreciate the experiences.

Rather than treating accessibility as a separate task to be addressed at a later stage, It becomes an integral part of the design process itself. However, the journey was long to reach this point, when we consider it a must-have part of the design process itself, and it has definitely been a positive evolution. In the past, accessibility was often overlooked and only considered as an add-on after the main design was finished. This led to issues and barriers for users with needs that vary. As designers of a changing world, it fills our hearts to see this change with adapting times.

While designing for inclusivity, it is essential to understand the limitations faced by users with disabilities. Let's delve into some of these disabilities and explore what to consider when creating inclusive designs:

• Visual impairments: People with visual impairments have different levels of vision loss, which makes it difficult for them to see visual elements. Include text descriptions for images, use readable colors, allow text resizing, and ensure compatibility with screen readers and keyboard navigation. Below is an example to show an instance of alternate text.

  

• Hearing impairments: People with hearing impairments face challenges in accessing audio content. Provide closed captions, subtitles, transcripts, visual indicators, and notifications for audio content. The below image shows an example of close captions, which give the user an idea of what is happening in between conversations.

• Motor disabilities: Motor disabilities like mobility impairments, tremors, limited dexterity, etc. make it difficult for people to move and interact with digital interfaces. Make clickable areas larger, support keyboard navigation, and offer alternative input methods like voice commands or gestures.

• Cognitive limitations: Some people have difficulty processing and understanding complex information due to cognitive limitations. Present information in a simple, clear, and consistent manner; break down information into smaller chunks; use plain language; give clear instructions; and reduce distractions. Check out this great example from growth.design

• Neurodiversity: Neurodiverse individuals, like those with autism or ADHD, have different sensory and attention needs. Create a balanced sensory experience, reduce overwhelming elements, and offer customization options. Use clear navigation, visuals, and predictable interactions. This one is an example of well-organized and thought-out navigation.

• Speech impairments: People who have difficulty speaking may face obstacles when using interfaces that rely on voice or audio. Provide alternative input methods like typing or alternative communication tools. Here is an example of Google's accessibility features for Chrome.

• Learning disabilities: Learning disabilities, like dyslexia or specific learning disorders, can make it harder for people to process and understand written information. Use dyslexia-friendly formatting, such as adequate spacing and easy-to-read fonts, and support text-to-speech technologies. Below is an example of an immersive reading experience in which you can let the software read the text out for you.

• Emotional and mental health conditions: Be mindful of sensitive content, provide warnings, offer content filtering options, and ensure access to relevant mental health resources. One common example these days of considering sensitivity is Instagram, and its feature of not displaying sensitive content unless the user agrees is quite helpful.

When it comes to designing for accessibility, it's crucial to be aware of legal and ethical considerations as well. Several accessibility laws and regulations exist to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities. Here are a few key points about relevant accessibility laws and regulations:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA is a significant U.S. law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It covers both physical spaces and digital platforms, requiring equal access to goods, services, and information. Websites, mobile apps, and other digital content should comply with ADA guidelines for accessibility.
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): The WCAG provides internationally recognized standards for web accessibility. It offers guidelines and success criteria to make digital content more accessible to individuals with disabilities. WCAG covers areas such as permeability, operability, understandability, and robustness.
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act: Section 508 applies to U.S. federal agencies and requires them to make electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. It sets standards for accessibility in federal websites, software, and other digital products.
• European Accessibility Act (EAA): The EAA aims to improve the accessibility of certain products and services within the European Union. It covers areas such as computers, smartphones, ATMs, e-books, and e-commerce platforms. The act ensures that individuals with disabilities can use these products and services without barriers.
• International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) standards: ISO has developed accessibility standards like ISO 9241-171, which address the accessibility of software user interfaces.

Designers and businesses have an ethical obligation to ensure accessibility for all users. By embracing inclusivity, they acknowledge the rights of individuals with disabilities to access information without barriers. Designing an accessible design from the start demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. Non-compliance with accessibility laws and regulations can have serious consequences. Legal repercussions, such as lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage, can arise from accessibility violations. Moreover, inaccessible designs limit access for individuals with disabilities, denying them equal opportunities and potentially leading to social exclusion.

We can conclude from the above that inclusivity is vital in the design landscape, ensuring that all users, regardless of their abilities, can access and benefit from products and services. UXers and businesses need to focus on building accessible experiences that promote equal opportunity and user delight by addressing disabilities, adopting inclusive design principles, and adhering to legal and ethical obligations. This dedication to accessibility not only corresponds with social responsibility, but it also creates new market prospects and broadens the possible client base. As the noble edge effect plainly demonstrates, when businesses display genuine compassion and social responsibility, they are rewarded with enhanced brand loyalty and higher profitability. By understanding human behavior, motivations, and cognitive processes, businesses and UX professionals can forge deeper connections with their audience and make informed decisions that resonate with their customer's desires and needs, ultimately driving long-term success and growth.