Brands for accessible design
**Brands That GET Accessibility: Your Ultimate Guide (You Won't Believe #3!)**
How to Get Started with Accessible Design Product Design Manager at Justworks Sabrina Hall by awwwards.
Title: How to Get Started with Accessible Design Product Design Manager at Justworks Sabrina Hall
Channel: awwwards.
Brands That GET Accessibility: Your Ultimate Guide (You Won't Believe #3!) - Seriously, Though, This Matters
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the world of Brands That GET Accessibility. And I gotta tell you, it's a wild ride. It's not just about slapping a few alt tags on your images anymore. It's about thinking, actually caring, and building a world that doesn't just tolerate everyone, but embraces the glorious, quirky diversity of the human experience. And, trust me, you won't believe some of the big names making serious headway (and some of the ones still…struggling).
This isn't just fluffy feel-good stuff, either. It’s about smart business. Accessibility isn’t some niche afterthought. It’s about reaching a HUGE audience, loyal customers, and, frankly, doing the right thing. But, before we all get our halos polished, let's be honest: things aren't always sunshine and rainbows. So, let’s peel back the layers, shall we?
Section 1: The Champions - Brands Kicking Ass in Accessibility (And Why They're Winning)
This is where we get to applaud the rockstars. These are the brands that truly get it. They understand that accessibility isn't about ticking boxes; it's about building a better experience for everyone.
- Apple: Seriously, where do I even start with Apple? Their dedication to accessibility is legendary. VoiceOver, AssistiveTouch, zoom features… the list goes on. I remember, years ago, watching a friend with a visual impairment navigate an iPhone with VoiceOver, and I was just blown away -- the speed, the precision, the intuitiveness. It wasn't just usable, it was amazing. These features aren't just added on; they're woven into the core of their products. And they understand that access isn't just about the technology, it's about the services around it… like AppleCare.
- Microsoft: Now, I've got a soft spot for Microsoft. Seriously. They've made massive strides with their "Microsoft Inclusive Design" initiative. They provide tons of resources and training, which is incredibly important for developers. They're making a conscious effort, and that matters. And the real game-changer? Their commitment is to empower everyone with tools, not just the "disabled." Features like Immersive Reader and live captions in Teams are a godsend.
- Starbucks: Okay, this one surprised me. They've made considerable leaps, integrating features like braille menus and allowing for customization. It's not perfect, sure (and I'll explain that in a bit), but the effort is there, and it's noticeable. They show a willingness to adapt, which is the key.
Key Takeaways (and a little rant): These brands aren't just doing it for brownie points. They're doing it because it makes their products better, their brands stronger, and their customer base wider. They're also reaping the rewards: increased customer loyalty, positive press, and a competitive edge. It's a no-brainer. Okay, rant over.
Section 2: Why Accessibility Matters (Seriously, The Reasons are Everywhere!)
Let's get this straight: Accessibility is not a nice-to-have. It's a must-have. It's not a fringe benefit; it's a fundamental right. And, from a business perspective, it's just smart. A few HUGE reasons why everyone who's anyone should care:
- Reaching a Huge Target Audience (LSI Keywords: Web Accessibility, Inclusive Design): Consider this: according to the CDC, around 26% of adults in the US have some type of disability. Globally, that number is even higher. That’s a massive market segment that’s often overlooked. Ignoring accessibility is like deliberately excluding a huge chunk of your potential customers. Seriously, think about it -- you could be missing out on billions of dollars.
- The Power of Positive Brand Perception (LSI Keywords: Accessibility Compliance, User Experience): In today's world, consumers are increasingly demanding that brands act responsibly. Companies that prioritize accessibility are seen as ethical, caring, and forward-thinking. Think of it like this: if you have a choice between buying from a brand that "gets it" and one that doesn't, which one are you more likely to support? It's that simple. And, let's be honest, everyone loves a good PR story about a company doing good.
- It Boosts SEO (LSI Keywords: Accessible Websites, Digital Accessibility): Search engines (like Google) love websites that are well-structured and easy to navigate. Accessibility best practices, such as using semantic HTML and alt text, naturally improve SEO. So, not only are you making your website more user-friendly, but you're also making it more searchable. Double win!
- Good for Everyone (LSI Keywords: Assistive Technology, Design for All): Accessibility benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities. Subtitles, for example, are great for people who are deaf or hard of hearing… but they're also fantastic for people who are watching in a noisy environment or learning a new language. Consider Zoom's live transcript features, they're useful for everyone!
Section 3: The Dark Side (Challenges and Pitfalls of Accessibility)
Okay, now for the messy stuff. While some brands are killing it, many others are… well, lagging. And there are real challenges involved, both in the implementation and in the perception of accessibility.
- The Cost Factor (LSI Keywords: Accessibility Planning, Budget Allocation): Let's be real: implementing accessibility features can be expensive. It requires time, resources, expertise, and ongoing maintenance. "Accessibility" gets tacked on at the end of a project, and it can be a pain. I feel ya. But often, if you prioritize accessibility from the start of a project, you'll save time and money in the long run.
- The Myth of Perfect Compliance (LSI Keywords: WCAG Guidelines, Accessibility Standards): It's easy to get bogged down in the technical details of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and other standards. While these are essential to follow, they're not a magic bullet. True accessibility goes beyond checking boxes. It’s about empathy, understanding, and ongoing iteration – learning from real users and adapting accordingly.
- The "Tick-Box" Mentality (LSI Keywords: Accessibility Audits, Web Design for Accessibility): I've seen it. Brands think they can hire someone to do an accessibility audit, make a few quick fixes, and call it a day, then move on. It's not a one-and-done project. It's an ongoing process. Accessibility requires constant monitoring, testing, and feedback.
- The "Us vs. Them" Problem (LSI Keywords: Disability Awareness, Inclusive Cultures): Sometimes, accessibility is approached as a separate issue, rather than being woven into the fabric of the company's culture. This can lead to a siloed approach where accessibility is seen as the responsibility of a specific team, rather than everyone. It becomes their problem, not the company's benefit.
Section 4: My Own Take - A Mixed Bag of Frustration and Hope
Okay, I’m going to get real personal here. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of accessibility firsthand. And, frankly, it's frustrating as hell sometimes.
I once worked on a project where we tried to make our website accessible. We had the best intentions, but we faced significant resistance from the "powers that be." We were constantly battling tight deadlines, budget cuts, and a general lack of understanding of what we were trying to achieve. It was exhausting. And the compromises we made… they still haunt me.
But then, I've had experiences that fill me with hope. Like when I saw someone use a screen reader to navigate a well-designed website, and I saw their face light up, like they'd finally been given the key to a door they'd been locked out of. That’s what matters, you know?
Accessibility isn't about perfection. It's about progress. It's about recognizing that we all deserve to be included, to participate, to experience the world fully.
Section 5: The Future of Accessibility: What's Next?
So, where do we go from here? What's the future of accessibility?
- AI and Automation: Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize accessibility. Imagine AI-powered tools that can automatically generate alt text for images, transcribe audio in real-time, and personalize website experiences for individual users.
- The Metaverse (and Beyond): As we move into the metaverse, accessibility will become even more crucial. Designers need to think about how people with disabilities will interact with these virtual environments. This includes everything from haptic feedback to accessible interfaces.
- User-Centric Design: The days of designing for people with disabilities are over. Instead, brands need to design with them. This means involving people with disabilities in the design process from the very beginning
Our BRAND NEW series about website accessibility design - Part One by Hoffi
Title: Our BRAND NEW series about website accessibility design - Part One
Channel: Hoffi
Hey there! Ever felt like the world just wasn’t built for you? Maybe it’s a website that’s a total headache to navigate, or a physical space that feels like climbing Mount Everest just to get inside. I get it. And that’s why I want to chat about something seriously important, something that’s finally starting to gain some serious traction: Brands for accessible design. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about making sure everyone can be a part of the party.
Accessible Design: It's Not Just a Buzzword, Folks!
So, what is accessible design? Think of it this way: it's not a special feature, it’s the default. It's about designing products, services, and environments that are usable by people of all abilities. That means considering visual impairments, hearing loss, cognitive differences, physical limitations, even temporary challenges like a broken arm. And frankly, it's about being a decent human being!
Now, I know, sometimes this all sounds a little… overwhelming. Like you have to become an accessibility expert overnight. But trust me, it doesn't have to be. We're going to break it down, focus on some seriously cool brands for accessible design that are nailing it, and give you some practical tips you can actually use. Let's dive in!
Why Should Brands Even Care About Accessibility? (Beyond the Law!)
Okay, so maybe you're thinking, "Why bother? Isn't accessibility just for, you know, legal compliance?" Well, yes, there are laws. But here’s the real kicker: accessibility is good for everyone.
Think about it. When a website is easy to navigate for someone with a screen reader, it’s also easier for someone using a mobile phone. When a product has clear instructions, it’s easier for all users to understand. And, let's be honest, we're all going to age if we live long enough. Designing for older adults, with their common vision or mobility challenges, benefits everyone eventually!
Plus, accessibility unlocks a HUGE market. Seriously. People with disabilities represent a massive consumer base, and they're loyal to brands that get them. Ignoring this segment is like voluntarily leaving money on the table.
Finally, and this is crucial, it’s the right thing to do. We should be creating a world where everyone has equal opportunity, and that includes access to information, products, and services.
Real-World Examples: Brands Rocking the Accessibility Game
Alright, enough preaching, let’s get to the good stuff. Who are these brands for accessible design that are actually walking the walk? Here are a few examples, along with why they're making waves:
- Microsoft: Seriously, Microsoft is crushing it. Their commitment to accessibility is baked into their products, from screen readers in Windows to color contrast options in Office. They actively seek feedback from users with disabilities and iterate based on it. I still remember—I was training a new hire at work a few years back, and she kept complaining about the Word document she was working on. It's too small, the colors are clashing… so I showed her the accessibility options, the reading view, and the high contrast settings. The smile on her face when she realized she could customize everything to her exact needs was amazing. Microsoft gets it.
- Starbucks: Okay, this might seem odd, but the Starbucks app. I find it really easy to use, and when I was recovering from an injury I appreciated the voice assistant available options they offer. It made so many steps of interacting with my local store to be quite fast and easy.
- Apple: Like Microsoft, Apple makes a huge commitment to its ecosystem's accessibility. A great example of this is the iPhone; from its voiceover feature to the ability to customize size and bold text in order to give a better experience. They also include the ability to customize text, and screen colors! This is huge when trying to navigate their menu. Simple but effective.
The point? These brands understand that accessibility isn't an afterthought. It's a core design principle – an investment, not a cost.
Actionable Tips: Where Do You Start?
Feeling inspired? Awesome! Here's some practical advice, whether you're a designer, a business owner, or just a concerned citizen:
- Audit Your Website: Use tools like WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool) to identify accessibility issues on your website. Seriously, it's free, and it can save you HUGE headaches down the line.
- Prioritize Color Contrast: Make sure text and background colors have sufficient contrast. There are tons of online tools to help with this!
- Use Alt Text, Properly: Alt text (alternative text) describes images for people who can't see them. Make it descriptive and useful. Imagine you're describing the image to someone over the phone.
- Think About Keyboard Navigation: Can users navigate your website using only a keyboard? This is critical for people who can't use a mouse.
- Get Feedback: The best way to improve accessibility is to involve people with disabilities in your design process. Ask for their input!
The Future of Design: Inclusive and Awesome!
So, what's it all boil down to? Brands for accessible design are leading the charge towards a more inclusive and equitable world. It's not just a trend; it's a fundamental shift in how we think about design.
Look, it’s not always going to be perfect. You'll make mistakes. But the important thing is that you're trying. That you're committed to learning and improving. And that you're willing to embrace the incredible opportunity to design for everyone.
The more we talk about this, the more we advocate for it, the more we support companies doing it right, the better things will get. Let’s make that happen! What are your favorite examples of accessible design? Share them in the comments! Let's get the conversation going!
Sneaker Drops: The Holy Grail of Kicks Is HERE!Design for Accessibility by Value at Void
Title: Design for Accessibility
Channel: Value at Void
Brands That GET Accessibility: Your Ultimate Guide (You Won't Believe #3!) - Buckle Up!
Okay, so what *ACTUALLY* makes a brand "accessible"? Is it just ramps and stuff? (Spoiler: NOPE)
Alright, let's get real. Ramps are great, don't get me wrong. But thinking accessibility *just* means a wheelchair ramp and a big font on the website is like thinking a five-star restaurant is just about the silverware. It's... a start. A tiny, tiny start.
True accessibility is like a freakin' symphony. It's about EVERY SINGLE NOTE, every instrument, every single person in the audience being able to enjoy the experience. It's about visual design (contrast, colorblindness considerations), audio cues, captions (YES, PLEASE!) on videos, alt text on images (I'm looking at you, Instagram!), easy-to-navigate websites for screen readers, and even the language used in their marketing. Think plain language, avoiding jargon... basically, treating everyone with respect and understanding they aren't all like you or me.
And honestly, it's also about *attitude*. Does the brand *care*? Do they genuinely listen to feedback? Are they proactively *seeking* it? THAT'S the real differentiator.
So, who's actually *nailing* this accessibility thing? Give me some examples, already!
Okay, okay, I’ll give you some names. But brace yourselves, because it’s a mixed bag. This isn't perfect, okay? Nobody's perfect. But here are a few that are *trying* (and some, succeeding a bit better than others), and this is based on my own, incredibly subjective, experience, mind you:
1. Apple: I'm gonna be a little biased here, because I'm an Apple user with visual challenges, and I can tell you that they are generally getting there. VoiceOver is a lifesaver, and they’re consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Look, they're not perfect, but they put serious emphasis on it. I remember having a meltdown trying to use a competitor's smart phone, a very popular phone brand, about three years ago… I'd spent hours trying to set up voiceover and nothing worked. I wanted to smash the phone. That moment solidified my loyalty.
2. Microsoft: Their accessibility tools are pretty *decent* too. They have spent serious money to make their product accessible. And it shows.
3. Starbucks: Hear me out! Accessibility is more than websites... it's the real world too. Starbucks, at least in a lot of locations, makes a real effort with signage, counter heights and (most importantly!) training their staff. When I read Braille with my friend, who is visually impaired, they also have Braille menus. Little things, but they add up. Also, I absolutely *adore* their mobile app's accessibility features - it's a godsend!
4. Smaller Businesses (The Underrated Heroes!): Honestly, some of the *best* accessibility efforts I've seen are from small businesses. I once found a tiny little bakery that had their entire menu on a tablet with LARGE PRINT and a voice-over option. It blew me away. They were doing this, like, as a reflex. That kind of dedication is inspiring.
Are there brands that are… well… *failing* miserably at this? (And can you name names?)
Oh, honey, where do I even *start*? Ugh. This is where my blood pressure goes up a few notches. Yes, there are brands that are spectacularly failing, and often with absolutely no excuse.
Brand X (Let's call them that): I once tried to use their website. Seriously, the contrast was so bad. It was like they hired a colorblind mime to design the whole thing. I emailed them for help, and I got a generic "we'll look into it." That was five years ago. Still a disaster and a sign of their disinterest. I'm telling you, I felt like I was navigating a black hole of digital frustration. Every time I see their ads I want to scream.
Brand Y: I have nothing against them, but I needed to use an online form and gave up. It's like they’ve never heard of keyboard navigation or alt text. Their site is a nightmare for a screen reader. A total, utter, audio wasteland. Unforgivable for a company of their size.
Look... accessibility isn't rocket science. It's about being *thoughtful* and *caring*. It's about spending a tiny bit of time making your brand welcoming to everyone. It's not about huge budgets. It's about caring. Seriously, it's that simple.
What about social media? Accessibility there?
Oh, social media! The Wild West of accessibility! It's better than it used to be, but it’s still rough around the edges.
The Good: Facebook and Instagram *finally* support alt text. Now, are people using it? Sometimes. If your alt text says "a picture of a sunset" versus "A beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean, with vibrant orange and purple hues and two palm trees silhouetted against the sky," well, it is telling. Twitter has a decent captioning system for videos (though it still has its issues). Pinterest.. at least they are trying... even if it's a bit patchy.
The Bad: Too many videos without captions. Too many images without alt text. Misinformation abounds. And the sheer volume of content makes it hard to keep up. I'm looking at you, TikTok and Reels - caption your stuff, please!
The Ugly: Brands that don’t even *bother*. Influencers who never add descriptions. It's a missed opportunity, a sign of laziness, and, frankly, a bit insulting. Accessibility on social media isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about being part of the conversation. And if you're excluding people, you’re missing out on a huge audience and a ton of potential engagement.
Okay, so what can *I* do to help brands improve their accessibility?
You can make a difference! Seriously! It doesn't take much:
- Speak Up! Email brands, DM them on social media, leave reviews. Politely, but firmly, let them know where they're falling short.
- Report Issues: If you find accessibility problems on a website or app, report them! Most sites have a feedback form.
- Share this Guide!: Spread the knowledge! Share this article with your friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who understand the importance of accessibility, the better.
- Support Accessible Brands: Vote with your wallet! Choose to support companies that make an effort to be inclusive. Let them know why you're choosing them.
- Learn More: Educate yourself! There are tons of resources online. The W3C is a great place to start. Honestly, a little research goes a long way.
And remember: you are not alone. And together, we can make the internet, and the world, a more accessible place for everyone.
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