Considering that one in four people in the UK have a physical and/or mental health disability, the need for making communications accessible to all should always figure highly in our thoughts.
Yet, often in the planning process, making our products and services accessible to all through effective communications seems something of an after-thought. Instead, accessible communications through design should be integral to the development of any new process or programme.
As our creative director Scott says in this learning and development video produced for staff at Essex County Council, there is no ‘magic accessibility button’. Making our communications accessible is a rigorous and carefully considered process, needing to conform to best practice at all times.
In the video, Scott, along with colleagues Jo and Billy, explain about all aspects of accessible design, including consideration of topics such as colour contrasts and using fonts correctly, alt text for images and choice of imagery.
The video was produced to support the council’s teams in embracing accessibility in service design and improving understanding of how materials such as reports and leaflets need to be produced to meet the highest standards.
Accessibility is not a ‘nice to have’ – it is an ‘essential to have’. Through accessibility, you achieve reach, and reach is what we strive for in order to be able to hit our objectives. Designing products to be accessible means reaching the audiences you want to reach. Inclusive design helps you reach everyone who needs your services, meeting standards and building trust.
If you are interested in finding out more about accessible design, please watch the video. It’s only 30 minutes long and full of insights and practical tips from the team. If you wanted further advice or information, just get in This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Give us a call on 0115 950 9394 or email info@touchdesign.co.uk