Dispelling the Myths of Accessibility Testing

Accessibility is an essential part of a user centred design approach and should not be viewed as a ‘nice to have’.  Here we dispel some of the myths that are used to argue against accessibility testing.

Myth 1:  ‘Hardly any disabled people use the internet, and even if they do they won’t spend money on it, so we shouldn’t waste our budget on accessibility’

This could not be further from the truth.  The internet is a positive, liberating force for disabled people giving them greater independence and freedom.  It allows people to shop, manage bank accounts and socialise from the comfort and convenience of their homes. 

The 10 million disabled people in the UK have a disposable income of nearly £50 billion.  The aging UK population means many more consumers have problems such as reduced vision and reduced mobility.  It makes good business sense to ensure your website can be used by as many people as possible within your target audience, and that you do not exclude those with disabilities.        

Myth 2: ‘Accessible websites mean text-only and they are unattractive and not innovative, which makes them unsuitable for everyone else’

We have helped numerous clients develop innovative websites that are accessible and usable to everyone, so we know that it is possible to be innovative, creative and accessible at the same time.  We have found that a User Centred Design (UCD) approach which involves users throughout the design process often leads to innovative and accessible design solutions.

Text-only versions of websites should only be used as a last resort, when an ordinary website cannot be made accessible due to some essential special functionality. 

Myth 3: ‘It is up to the assistive technology to deal with barriers and it is up to the user to become an expert in assistive technology’

It is impossible for assistive technology to make sense of a page that has not been coded properly and thoughtfully.  It is essential that content producers and developers work towards accessible products from early on in the development process. 

Simply testing designs with assistive technology is not enough and it is unfair to expect all assistive technology users to be ‘experts’ at using their chosen assistive technology.  The design needs to be evaluated by real accessibility technology users who range from experts to novice users.

Myth 4: ‘Accessibility and usability are completely different and need two specialist teams, doubling the time and budget.’

From a users’ perspective, accessibility and usability are not that different.  In fact, accessible websites are generally more usable.  Our consultants have the experience and training to carry out both usability and accessibility sessions. In our experience, combining usability and accessibility into a single study:

• takes less time and money than running two separate studies
• improves project continuity
• results in more pragmatic recommendations.

Myth 5: ‘Inclusive design is just about accessibility’

Inclusive design (BS 7000I) involves designing for the widest range of possible users.  This involves understanding the requirements and context of use for non-disabled as well as disabled users.  Considering and testing with users with a range of abilities gives the best chance of ensuring that products, systems or services can be used effectively, efficiently and with satisfaction.    

Myth 6:  ‘Accessibility is simply about making sure that the website meets the W3C’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines’ 

Even though the W3C’s WCAG version 2.0 guidelines are internationally recognised, there are other standards and guidelines to consider, while many accessibility issues can only be found through user testing.  Guidelines should be used as a basis for assessing a site’s accessibility rather than as a method for ensuring a site is accessible.  They are not a replacement for user testing. 

And if you're still not convinced ...

Accessibility can easily be included in a User Centred Design process without significant additional cost.  We believe that considering the requirements of everyone in your target audience when designing and developing products and services makes both commercial and moral sense.

If you would like to find out more about how we can help you please contact us to arrange a meeting without obligation.    

Last updated: October, 2009

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