How do you give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features?

1 Use accessibility guidelines

One of the best ways to give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features is to use established and widely recognized accessibility guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) or the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). These guidelines provide clear and measurable criteria for evaluating the accessibility and usability of your content and products. You can use them to identify the strengths and weaknesses of your features, as well as to suggest improvements and solutions.

2 Use accessibility testing tools

Another way to give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features is to use accessibility testing tools, such as screen readers, keyboard navigation, color contrast analyzers, or automated checkers. These tools can help you simulate the experience of different users and detect any issues or errors that might affect their access or enjoyment. You can use these tools to complement your feedback based on the accessibility guidelines, as well as to provide specific examples and screenshots of the problems and how to fix them.

3 Use accessibility personas

A third way to give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features is to use accessibility personas, which are fictional characters that represent the needs, goals, and characteristics of different user groups. Accessibility personas can help you empathize with your users and understand how they interact with your content and products. You can use them to provide feedback that is relevant, realistic, and respectful of your users' diversity and preferences.

4 Use accessibility feedback methods

A fourth way to give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features is to use accessibility feedback methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, or user testing. These methods can help you collect direct and honest feedback from your users and stakeholders, as well as to observe their behavior and reactions. You can use them to validate your feedback based on the accessibility guidelines and tools, as well as to discover any new insights or opportunities for improvement.

5 Use accessibility feedback principles

To give feedback for accessibility and inclusion features, you can use accessibility feedback principles. These principles should be specific and objective, based on guidelines, tools, personas, and methods. They should also be positive and supportive, acknowledging strengths and achievements. Furthermore, the feedback should be clear and concise, using simple language and formatting. Finally, the feedback should be timely and responsive, following deadlines and expectations. This will help ensure that you are giving effective and constructive feedback.

6 Use accessibility feedback etiquette

When giving feedback for accessibility and inclusion features, it’s important to use appropriate etiquette. This includes being polite and courteous, honest and trustworthy, and open and collaborative. You should provide feedback that is respectful, considerate, truthful, reliable, constructive, and helpful. Additionally, you should avoid feedback that is rude, offensive, false or misleading, destructive or unhelpful, or competitive or confrontational. By following these tips, you can give effective feedback that can help you improve your content and products for everyone.

7 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?