Usability and Accessibility

I work with usability as it applies to web sites and interactive pieces. We sometimes discuss accessibility with our clients, which has brought up some interesting questions. (Depending on the client, accessibility may be a requirement for the design we create.)

Glove for use with touch screen device

The first step is to understand how accessibility and usability work together. Accessibility addresses the needs of people with differing physical abilities. Usability considers the needs of all people. Typically, anything that makes a site or product more accessible will also make it more usable, but not always.

It’s also interesting to note that we are all in need of accessibility aids at some point. For example, we may be wearing gloves or may be using a mobile device—both will reduce our ability to manipulate smaller objects or click small text.
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Add comment November 7, 2011