Making HSE digital services inclusive - Accessibility and inclusivity
Accessibility and inclusivity are aspects of usability and human-centred design. Sometimes the terms are used interchangeably.
But, defining the terms helps us deliver the best experience for our users.
Accessibility
Accessible design helps users with different levels of ability. Visual, auditory, physical or cognitive impairments should not be barriers to using the HSE website and digital services. We must meet legal and international accessibility standards to ensure we are accessible.
Some examples of designing for accessibility include:
- webpages that can be navigated using a screen reader
- conducting regular accessibility audits
- carrying out regular usability testing with people with disabilities
- adding captions (subtitles) to videos
- publishing an accessibility statement
Inclusivity
Inclusive design goes beyond accessibility. We aim to create a website and digital experience that welcomes and considers the needs of everyone. This should be regardless of gender, age, religion, race, sexuality, ability, literacy level, or socio-economic status.
Some examples of designing for inclusivity include:
- translating relevant webpages into other languages
- ensuring diverse recruitment for user testing
- using plain English
- fostering a workplace culture that embraces different viewpoints
Accessibility is the first step in creating an inclusive user experience. It aims to set a baseline so that people, regardless of their abilities, can engage with HSE digital platforms. Inclusivity widens the net to welcome users from diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
We always strive to ensure our digital experience is inclusive. But, we take measurable, specific steps to ensure our digital experience is accessible.
Accessible and inclusive design will never be ‘completed’. They are ongoing and integral parts of our process. We are always working to make things better today than they were yesterday.