Inclusive design, like a protective umbrella, covers an immense range of diverse individuals. It caters not only to those dealing with accessibility issues but also to users confronted with a loss of ability or environmental barriers. From those juggling unreliable internet connections to people living with low vision conditions like myopia or astigmatism, inclusive design aims to reach everyone.
At our branding agency we believe that starting the design process with accessibility design guidelines lays a robust foundation. Yet, simply ticking off accessibility standards does not automatically yield enjoyable or highly usable experiences. That’s where we bring in usability practices, ensuring alignment with product goals and needs at every design stage.
For instance, let’s look at interaction design. Crafting a well-thought-out blueprint is essential when drawing wireframes. Grouping related content and controls, such as checkboxes and labels, and structuring your layout content with keyboard interactions and tabbing control are aspects worth considering.
Visual design
To enhance user engagement, it’s critical to set color and contrast at the right levels and select typography size and line height that facilitate easy reading. More importantly, we shouldn’t rely solely on color to deliver information. Including icons or shapes in error messages can be a great aid for colorblind individuals.
The role of UX copy in shaping user experience is also significant. The use of accessible language that respects the user’s education and background can dramatically boost your product’s comprehension. Consistency, clarity, and conciseness are the keystones of an effective copy, particularly for crucial elements like confirmation and error messages.
Motion design
Animation too influences accessibility. Animations that play out too quickly can disorient users with specific accessibility needs. It’s crucial to ensure alerts and vital messages are displayed long enough for all users to grasp them, from those with short sightedness to the momentarily distracted ones.
As a webdesign agency we believe that inclusive design and accessibility matter immensely. As we continually learn, grow, and refine our approach, we remain committed to breaking down barriers to information and enhancing digital experiences. Remember, our ultimate goal is to cater equally to all users. With a dedicated focus on accessibility, we’re determined to create standout, improved products for all.
Initiating the design process with accessibility design guidelines is a solid first step. However, simply meeting accessibility standards doesn’t guarantee the creation of usable or exceptional experiences. This is where usability practices enter the equation, ensuring we align product goals and needs throughout all stages of the design process.
Interaction design
A well-designed foundation is instrumental when sketching wireframes. Consider grouping related content and controls together (like checkboxes and labels) and organizing your layout content with keyboard interactions and tabbing control in mind.
Visual design
To enhance user interaction, it’s critical to ensure settings for color and contrast are adequately high, and typography size and line height promote easy legibility. Also, steer clear from using color as the sole method to convey information to users. Incorporate icons or shapes in error messages, as these visual cues aid colorblind individuals.
Moreover, UX copy also plays a significant role in enhancing user experience. Using accessible language that considers the user’s education and background can vastly improve comprehension of your product. Consistency, clarity, and brevity are the pillars of an effective copy, especially when it comes to critical elements such as confirmation and error messages.
Don’t forget about motiondesign! Animation could impact accessibility too, for example animations that occur too rapidly can cause issues for users with accessibility needs. Make sure alerts and important messages are displayed long enough for all users to see them, from those with short sightedness to the ones momentarily distracted.
Inclusive design and accessibility truly matter. As we continue to evolve and refine our approach, we strive to remove barriers to accessing information and enjoying digital experiences. Remember, our end goal is to serve all users equally. With a thoughtful focus on accessibility, we can create distinguished and improved products for everyone.