Understanding the Power of Functional Performance Statements

In the scope of accessibility, creating a world that includes everyone's needs is vital. The concept of Functional Performance Statements (FPS), a remarkable framework introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO). FPS is like a compass that guides us towards designing environments, products, and services that cater to the diverse abilities of people. Let us delve into the FPS, understand its importance, and grasp its application through a real-world example. We will specifically discuss the FPS defined for the Indian accessibility standard IS-17802.

Understanding Functional Performance Statements

Imagine you are building a bridge. You would not build it without understanding its purpose and considering the weight it will carry, right? Similarly, when designing for accessibility, we need to focus on the function something needs to serve and how it empowers individuals with different abilities. That is where FPS steps in. A similar approach is applicable while designing digital products and services like websites, apps, e-books.

FPS is all about crafting clear, precise, and measurable statements that describe how a person with a specific disability can function effectively in each environment. It is about recognizing that disabilities do not define people; they simply alter how they interact with the world. FPS paints a rich picture of how to make this interaction smooth and empowering.

The Strength of FPS

Think of FPS as a bridge itself—a bridge that connects the domain of design with the diverse abilities of people. It bridges the gap between exclusion and inclusion. When we have a well-defined FPS, we are equipped with the tools to create digital or physical environments that everyone can navigate effortlessly. It enables system architects, developers, and designers to break down barriers that have long separated people with disabilities from fully participating in digital spaces.

Indian accessibility standard IS-17802 is FPS driven.

This year on 11th May we have the biggest breakthrough for the accessibility journey in our country as Indian accessibility standard IS-17802 was legally notified under the rights for Person with Disabilities (RPDA) rule amendment. With this legal backing now all the ICT products and services available in India must comply to this Indian accessibility standard. To understand the journey and highlights of this standard you can read my earlier article here https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/indian-ict-accessibility-standard-is-17802-now-legally-sai-bhagat/

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One essential element of this standard is its FPS driven guidelines and requirements. It has defined its own FPS to cater for a variety of users, situations, and environments. Due to its FPS driven nature, it is technology agnostic and not targeted to any specific user.

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FPS defined in IS-17802

·?????? Usage without vision

·?????? Usage with limited vision

·?????? Usage without perception of color

·?????? Usage without hearing

·?????? Usage with limited hearing

·?????? Usage without vocal capability

·?????? Usage with limited manipulation or strength

·?????? Usage with limited reach

·?????? Minimize photosensitive seizure triggers.

·?????? Usage with limited cognition

·?????? Privacy

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If you carefully ?read the above-mentioned functional performance statements defined in the Indian standard, you will realize that these statements are not specific to any disability they depict the functional and environmental limitations of a user. For e.g. usage without vision is applicable for a blind user and will also benefits the senior citizen who is loosing his sight due to aging. It is also applicable in the situation and environment? where user without any? disability want to operate ICT by not looking at it or he or she is not suppose to look at it for e.g. while driving. ?Since all the requirements laid in various chapters of the standard are solely based on these statements it helps in designing a maximum accessible ICT product and service. It is not only helping users with various physical, visual, auditory, and cognitive abilities but also serves the variety of situations and environment.

Example: Accessible Mobile App for Individuals with Visual Impairment

Traditional Approach: Consider a mobile app that heavily relies on visual elements for navigation and interaction. For Alex, who is visually impaired, using this app in its traditional form can be quite challenging.

• The app may have valuable information conveyed solely through visual cues, such as icons or color-coded buttons, making it inaccessible for Alex.
• Features like menus, buttons, or interactive elements may lack proper labeling or alternative descriptions, hindering Alex's ability to navigate effectively.

FPS approach: as per the FPS defined in IS-17802, the mobile app is redesigned to be inclusive and accessible to individuals with visual impairment. This is as per the important functional performance statement? ‘Usage without vision’ , all the visual elements will have other alternative to make it accessible and inclusive.

• Screen Reader Compatibility: Ensure the app is compatible with screen readers, which can convert on-screen text into speech or Braille output. This allows Alex to navigate and interact with the app using audio or tactile feedback.
• Accessible Navigation: Implement clear and logical navigation pathways. Use text-based menus and buttons with proper labels and descriptions, making it easy for Alex to understand and navigate through different sections of the app.
• Voice Commands: Integrate voice command functionality, allowing Alex to control the app by giving verbal commands. This feature enables hands-free navigation and interaction.
• High Contrast and Large Fonts: Provide options for high-contrast display modes and larger font sizes to enhance visibility for users with low vision.
• Haptic Feedback: Include haptic feedback for certain interactions. When Alex taps on a button or navigates through options, the device vibrates, providing tactile confirmation of actions.

Outcome: In adopting the FPS approach, the mobile app becomes an inclusive space for individuals with visual impairment, like Alex. It does not merely accommodate Alex; it empowers them to use the app independently and effectively on their terms. By considering various accessibility features, the app becomes a more universally accessible tool, ensuring a positive and empowering user experience for all, regardless of visual abilities.

With FPS itnbsp; is universal and inclusive

Functional Performance Statements from the WHO are more than just guidelines; they are a beacon of inclusivity. They urge us to view disabilities through the lens of empowerment rather than limitation. By crafting these statements, we take a crucial step towards weaving accessibility into the very fabric of our society. Adopting FPS means embracing diversity and tapping into the enormous potential that lies within everyone. As we strive ahead, let us remember that every well-designed website, every thoughtfully designed mobile application, accessible multimedia content and every inclusive ICT is not just a modification; it is a testament to the power of functional performance statements that create a world where everyone truly belongs.

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