In my texts, I’ve often used terms like *accessibility* and *inclusion*, but if you’re not familiar with the field, or with people with disabilities—yes, you read that right, 😊 the field—and I should stop there, otherwise I might be tempted to call it a problem area, as society often sees it. 😊
Today I thought I’d explain what inclusion means. Nooo, not the dictionary definition, because you could find that on Google, and I’m sure you would have if you weren’t here with me.
And since examples are the best teachers, pay attention here:
In building X, access is provided both by stairs and a ramp. You can choose: you climb the stairs, or if the ramp is less demanding, you decide to use it, or you choose the ramp because you have a child in a stroller, and they haven’t learned to climb stairs yet 😊 or who knows.
Then, you receive a notification; your mentor has posted a new article containing information that interests you. You can’t read it because you’re driving, but you say, “Let’s give it a try,” and open the link.
Surprise, there’s an audio playback button!
Another reason to admire the person, not just for the information they offer, but also because they’ve made it accessible to you.
In this way, you were able to drive calmly and listen to the text.
Besides you, perhaps another ten thousand people listened to it, whether they were in traffic, visually impaired, or chopping onions for cooking 😊—the circumstances aren’t relevant.
These are just two examples, which I hope have made the concept of inclusion more understandable for you.
An inclusive product or service is one that can be accessed and used by as diverse a group of people as possible. The example of an inclusive map is a great illustration of how thoughtful design can expand accessibility. An inclusive map could feature bright, high-contrast colors for easy visibility and embossed lines that can be felt with fingers, making it accessible not just to those who are visually impaired but also to individuals who rely on tactile information.
A personal example of an inclusive situation involves a local community center that redesigned its entrance. Previously, it had steps leading up to the main door, which was a barrier for anyone using a wheelchair or with mobility issues. After the redesign, they installed a ramp with a gentle incline alongside the steps. They also included braille signage and audio cues at various locations within the center, making the space welcoming not just for those with physical disabilities but also for visually and hearing-impaired visitors. This change allowed a broader range of community members to participate in events and activities, reinforcing the importance of inclusion.
Around us, one increasingly common inclusive product is software applications with built-in accessibility features. For instance, many smartphones now come with options for text-to-speech, magnification, and high contrast settings, which are designed to assist users with varying degrees of visual impairment. These features are built into the device’s operating system, allowing users to interact with their devices more effectively and independently.
#Accessibility_is_not_a_luxury—it’s a step toward the inclusive society we dream of. Would you like to share any inclusive products or situations you’ve encountered? I’d love to hear about them!
