Featherstone says accessibility needs to be part of the design process

He said the importance of accessible for the web is not just in meeting the guidelines, but about good design and planning. “Too much of accessibility happens between the implementation and launch of a project when the costs are highest,” said Featherstone.

Much of the information in his presentation centered on designing for people who use screen readers. This included ensuring there is another way to perceive images, such as descriptive texts and, he said images that could be added as text rather than images, such as a schedule should be.

He added that screen readers use picture names, so ensure your files are labeled with information that supports the image, not a generic file name. “We can’t just think visually,” said Featherstone. “If we do, we’re sunk.” Contact: Furtherahead.com, Rgdontario.com

by Val Maloney (orginally published in Design Edge, 3 February 2010)

Accessibility is no longer an option. It’s a necessity.

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario (RGD Ontario) is helping to lead the way to a more accessible province for everyone through a partnership with the Ontario government.

Through the EnAbling Change Partnership Program, RGD Ontario will work with the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario to develop tools that will educate the design community on accessible design.

These resources, which will be finalized by June 2010, will help graphic designers meet requirements in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

“This partnership will help the graphic design industry to improve accessibility so people with disabilities have more opportunities to work, live, buy products and access services across Ontario,” says Minister of Community and Social Services Madeleine Meilleur.

Through this partnership, RGD Ontario will help make Ontario accessible by 2025.

“We are proud to play this important role to improve accessibility — it means more customers for our businesses and more talent for our workforce,” says Hilary Ashworth, Executive Director, RGD Ontario.

Do you have an accessibility success story you’d like to share? Tell your story by contacting RGD Ontario Access Ability using our online contact form.

For more information on how to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, visit www.ontario.ca/AccessON.