Digital accessibility: Why inclusive tech matters
To mark the occasion of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2025, I want to share something personal: how technology, particularly computers and software, helped shape my life and career.
A personal journey
Well, I don’t have an engineering degree. I studied sociology. What I did have was a thirst to earn a living and become financially independent, which led me to work in the IT industry. Back then, doors were not open to most jobs because of my disability. It was my ability to use a computer keyboard and my persistent effort to learn more about computers and software that have made me a software professional. More than 20 years on, I’m still proud to be part of this industry.
Though my journey wasn’t easy. At the time, technology was not as advanced or accessible as it is today. This was due to many reasons. Technology was in its naive stage. Awareness of disability inclusion was low. Assistive equipment and devices were rarely available. And though things have largely improved, there is still a huge gap when it comes to digital accessibility. Many websites and apps are still not designed with inclusion in mind. That’s why it’s so important to understand digital accessibility holistically and raise awareness about its impact.
What is digital accessibility?
Digital accessibility means designing and developing products and environments in a way that ensures people with disabilities can access and use digital content. This includes websites, software, documents, audio, video, and any other online content. If accessibility features are incorporated for digital access, they should support people who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, mobility impaired and people with learning disabilities.
Why is it important? Here’s why:
- Inclusion and opportunity: It is essential to ensure that people with disabilities can access and use digital products, services, and information so they can participate fully at work, in education and society - promoting equal opportunities and inclusion.
- Broader reach: By making digital content accessible, it means catering to a wider audience that includes people with disabilities across the globe.
- Better design: Accessible design can benefit all users, not just people with disabilities, by providing clearer navigation, simpler language, and more intuitive interfaces.
- Legal compliance: Many countries have stringent laws and regulations for digital accessibility, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US and the European Accessibility Act (EAA) in the EU.
- Reputation and trust: Prioritizing digital accessibility can show commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity, enhancing a brand's reputation and trustworthiness.
The internet is a gateway to a world of knowledge, connection, opportunities, products and much more. Prioritizing digital accessibility can create a more inclusive and equitable digital landscape for everyone.
Posted on: Mai 13, 2025
