What network design accessibility issues should you avoid?

1 Accessibility principles

The WCAG are a set of guidelines that provide four principles for creating accessible web content: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. These principles can also be applied to network design, as they ensure that your network can deliver information and services to different users and devices. For example, you should make sure that your network supports different media formats, input methods, output devices, and protocols, and that it does not rely on a single technology or feature that may not be available or compatible for some users.

2 Accessibility testing

One of the best ways to avoid network design accessibility issues is to test your network regularly and with different tools and methods. Accessibility testing can help you identify and fix any problems or gaps in your network that may affect the user experience or functionality. For example, you can use automated tools to check your network for compliance with the WCAG and other standards, such as the Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act or the EN 301 549. You can also use manual testing methods, such as user testing, expert reviews, or heuristic evaluations, to get feedback and insights from real users or experts.

3 Accessibility documentation

Another way to avoid network design accessibility issues is to document your network and its accessibility features and requirements. Documentation can help you communicate your network design goals and decisions to your stakeholders, clients, and users, and to demonstrate your compliance with the accessibility standards and regulations. For example, you can create an accessibility statement, a policy, or a report that explains how your network meets the WCAG and other criteria, what accessibility issues or limitations it may have, and how you plan to address them. You can also provide guidance and instructions on how to use your network and its accessibility features.

4 Accessibility training

A third way to avoid network design accessibility issues is to train yourself and your team on the best practices and techniques for creating accessible networks. Training can help you improve your knowledge and skills on network design and accessibility, and to keep up with the latest trends and developments in the field. For example, you can take online courses, attend webinars, or join communities and forums that focus on network design and accessibility. You can also seek advice and support from accessibility experts or consultants who can help you with your network design challenges and solutions.

5 Accessibility maintenance

A fourth way to avoid network design accessibility issues is to maintain your network and its accessibility features regularly and consistently. Maintenance can help you ensure that your network stays accessible and functional over time, and that it adapts to the changing needs and expectations of your users and devices. For example, you should monitor your network performance and usage, update your network software and hardware, fix any bugs or errors, and implement any feedback or suggestions that you receive from your users or testers.

6 Accessibility benefits

By avoiding network design accessibility issues, you can enjoy many benefits for your network and your business. Accessibility can help you improve your network quality, reliability, and usability, and to reach more users and customers, especially those with disabilities or special needs. Accessibility can also help you comply with the legal and ethical obligations and standards that apply to your network and your industry, and to avoid any penalties or lawsuits that may arise from accessibility violations. Accessibility can also help you enhance your reputation and credibility as a network designer and a service provider, and to gain a competitive edge in the market.

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?