ICT and Accessibility
Accessibility is a general term referring to the degree to which any product is accessible to as many people as possible.
In ICT terms accessibility is most often mentioned when discussing websites - because that's often an organisation's main interface with the outside world. However, all hardware and software should be accessible to those who use it, including staff and volunteers.
You can find out more about accessibility on the following websites:
- The Web Accessibility Initiative provides strategies, guidelines, resources to make the Web accessible to people with disabilities
- AbilityNet, a national charity that provides independent advice and information on all aspects making ICT accessible for people with a disability or limiting condition has information on hardware, software and website accessibility. Some of AbilityNet's interesting links are:
- The ICT Hub Knowledgebase has an article on making PDF files accessible.
There are also many specialist organisations which deal with various aspects of technology and accessibility.
Workshops
During 2006 iT4Communities ran a series of accessibility workshops in partnership with AbilityNet
The workshops gave a practical overview of the key issues involved and ideas about how to address them. They also provided information about UK law and guidelines. They focused on practical solutions and introduced tools aimed at making technology more accessible amongst disabled people.
Although the workshops are not currently being delivered the slides used during the presentations are available as PDF files by clicking on the links below:
- Setting the scene - an introduction
- Adaptive Technology - how disabled people use the web
- Key Issues for web accessibility - at levels 1 and 2
- Testing tools and techniques
- A strategic approach
- For editors - writing for the web
