How do you stay current with accessibility and inclusion trends?

One thing I’ve found helpful... Automated accessibility tools like Axe are helpful for identifying basic issues. They serve as a good starting point but aren't a complete solution. Actually I disagree with... While WCAG guidelines are essential, they aren't the end-all for accessibility. User testing with a diverse group, including those with disabilities, provides insights that guidelines alone can't offer. An example I’ve seen... Dark mode in modern UIs is a great example of going beyond guidelines. Initially a design choice, it's now recognized for aiding users with visual impairments, enhancing overall accessibility. By combining guidelines, automated tests, and user feedback, we can strive for truly inclusive design.

There are few things as powerful as working in the field to get top-notch insights. Taking from social anthropology practices and incorporating systemic thinking principles you can deliver top-notch results.

The A11y Slack group is an invaluable resource for real-time discussions and immediate feedback from global experts. Blog articles from sources like the A11y Project offer insights into the latest trends and best practices. Networking with professionals in these platforms enriches your perspective and exposes you to real-world challenges. Deep dives into new HTML elements and following GitHub activity for W3C specs keep you ahead of the curve. Don't overlook accessibility forum mailing lists; they're gold mines for in-depth discussions on best practices. Leveraging these resources not only keeps you informed but also actively contributes to a more inclusive digital landscape.

One thing I’ve found helpful... Following experts and their content is invaluable for staying updated. Platforms like the A11y Project offer practical tips and case studies that provide real-world context, making the guidelines more actionable. Actually I disagree with... While learning from experts is beneficial, it's important not to take everything at face value. The field of accessibility is ever-evolving, and what works in one context may not in another. Critical thinking and adaptability are key. An example I’ve seen... The Inclusive Design 24 conference is a standout example. It not only disseminates expert knowledge but also fosters community engagement. This dual approach enriches the learning experience, making it more holistic.

Experts are NOT the end all be all. In fact, including juniors and the greater community in the conversation we find more authentic perceptive solution to accessibility and inclusion. Afterall, the people we're trying to serve in accessibility and inclusion are the very people we MUST hear from.

One thing I’ve found helpful... User testing with diverse groups is invaluable. It provides insights that guidelines and automated tools can't capture, making your design truly inclusive. Actually I disagree with... While tools like WAVE and Lighthouse are useful, relying solely on them can give a false sense of accessibility. They can't replicate the nuanced experiences of real users, so human testing remains indispensable. An example I’ve seen... Google's Lighthouse is a good example of a tool that offers both accessibility and performance metrics. It's useful for quick checks but should be complemented by user research for a comprehensive view.

Learning from real people's experiences is a great way to make your designs more inclusive. Accessibility can seem like a lot of laws and standards, and that can be overwhelming. Designers are already great at thinking about the human impact of the work you do, and it's easier to understand when it's about real people instead of rules. Doing research and testing with people who have disabilities gives you insight into their experiences, which will help you design more inclusively.

One thing I’ve found helpful... User testing with diverse groups is invaluable. It provides insights that guidelines and automated tools can't capture, making your design truly inclusive. Actually I disagree with... While tools like WAVE and Lighthouse are useful, relying solely on them can give a false sense of accessibility. They can't replicate the nuanced experiences of real users, so human testing remains indispensable. An example I’ve seen... Google's Lighthouse is a good example of a tool that offers both accessibility and performance metrics. It's useful for quick checks but should be complemented by user research for a comprehensive view.

One thing I’ve found helpful... Exploring emerging technologies like voice assistants can open new avenues for accessibility. These technologies can make interactions more natural for users with specific needs. Actually I disagree with... Innovation is exciting, but it's important not to overlook the basics in the quest for the new. Sometimes, the most effective solutions are simple and well-established methods, like semantic HTML for web accessibility. An example I’ve seen... Inclusive personas are an excellent example of innovation in methodology. They help designers think from diverse perspectives, making the design process inherently more inclusive.

Don't be afraid of failure. As commonly said, fail often and fail fast. Iteration is key to your product or service to accomplish delivery.

One thing I’ve found helpful... Online courses and certifications offer structured learning paths that can significantly boost your understanding of accessibility. They often include hands-on exercises that provide practical experience. Actually I disagree with... While formal education is valuable, it's not the only way to grow. Sometimes, real-world experience and iterative design can teach you nuances that courses and books might not cover. An example I’ve seen... Webinars are a great example of bite-sized learning. They allow you to gain insights on specific topics without a long-term commitment, making it easier to stay updated in a fast-moving field.

Ask questions. Ask your target, customer, team and research. Keep asking questions until a path emerges. There's no one person, expert or group with all of the answers - and no singular technique serves the need. So we start by asking questions. And continue with more questions. The answers will reveal themselves!

Accessibility and inclusion in UX design is a multi-faceted endeavor that requires a blend of guidelines, expert advice, user feedback, innovative thinking, and continuous learning. No single approach is sufficient; it's the synergy of these elements that creates a truly inclusive experience. It's also a field that's ever-evolving, so staying static is not an option. Whether it's keeping up with new technologies or revisiting the basics, the key is to remain adaptable and receptive to change.