Why You Should Think Accessibility From the Design Phase?

Two years ago, I wasn’t aware that people use mobile devices in different ways. Until one day, a colleague showed me how a vision-impaired user navigates a website. From then, I started to view this world differently.

I used to think that implementing designs in an accessible way was the developers’ responsibility. So we as designers, would leave it solely up to them during the implementation phase. With time, I started to understand that a designer plays an essential role in building an accessible design. Why? Let’s dive in to find out.

1. Remember NOT everyone uses mobile in the same way

In my early years, I only know my own preference in using a mobile device. So I used it to design for the so-called ‘average user’.

Average users

I can hear and read without any difficulties, and I take it for granted. I can tag and drag to rearrange my calendar, and I’m used to swiping left to delete an email. Most digital services in the market are created for users like me.

Then, I learnt that there are many different ways to interact with a mobile device.

Users with hearing impairment

If a person is literate but hearing impaired, they can access video content by reading subtitles. Additionally, using a sign language interpreter can be helpful to those who may know sign language, particularly during live events.

Users with low vision

Users with low vision may zoom in their screen to 200% and increase the screen contrast. When the zoom function is on, all components are double the size compared to their standard dimensions. In addition…