How can you make devices more accessible to users with diverse needs?

2 Apply universal design principles

Universal design principles aim to create products that are accessible to all people, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. These principles include equitable use, flexibility in use, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, and size and space for approach and use. For example, a device should be useful and appealing to people with diverse abilities, easy to understand and operate regardless of the user's experience or concentration level, and provide appropriate size and space for the user to reach and manipulate. All of these principles help ensure that devices are usable by everyone, to the greatest extent possible.

4 Test accessibility with real users

The most important step to make devices more accessible is to test them with real users who have diverse needs and abilities. Involving users in the design and evaluation process can help identify and address accessibility issues, as well as get feedback on how to improve usability and functionality. To ensure success, you should consider accessibility audits, testing, and user feedback. Accessibility audits involve checking the device's compliance with standards and guidelines, while accessibility testing includes conducting usability tests with scenarios, tasks, and metrics. Additionally, you can collect user feedback on the device's accessibility through surveys, interviews, focus groups, or online platforms. Overall, following these tips and best practices can make devices more accessible to a wider range of users and create a more inclusive experience.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?