Learning How To Create Accessible Designs
by: Sierra
Hello, my name is Sierra, and I am a full-time student in the Experiential Design program. Accessibility within design involves creating and adapting products, services, and environments that are used by people with and without disabilities. Being a UX/UI student helped me learn and understand the entire range of accessibility needs in design, such as visual and auditory disabilities. If you’re looking to create accessible designs, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way.
1. Put Yourself in Someone Else’s Shoes
I always asked myself questions such as: “Will people be able to read this text from afar?” and “Does this colour choice contrast well with the background?” These questions helped me to discover any faults with the design choices and I made sure to fix everything to comply with easily accessible design features for everyone to abide by.
2. Get to Know the Guidelines
Alongside the design features, I was taught to conduct user testing to make sure everything worked well according to the guidelines. As such, this provides direct feedback to myself when there are needed improvements, or I am unaware of possible faults within the design process that will affect the overall aspects of accessibility.
3. Have an Open Mind When You Design
I think the most important thing I learned throughout my first year would be to have an open mind when starting design projects that are assigned to you. This allows me to learn continuously and can adapt to researching and creating solutions to enhance usability for everyone.
During my time at Sheridan, I learned to explore a variety of ways to gather information regarding my assignments such as user personas and surveys to name a few. Throughout all the courses I took here at Sheridan, the curriculum makes it well known to consider ethical imperatives while thinking about designs. I continuously learned how to incorporate guidelines that comply with inclusivity in society.
Interested in UX/UI Design?
This blog was written by Sierra, a club lead for PixelPerfect for the 2024/2025 school year. This student-led club provides dives into the captivating world of UX/UI design through engaging workshops and fun monthly design challenges! Looking to spark your curiosity and grow your skills? Check them out on Clubs Corner! Learn more about creating inclusive digital content and design, accessibility tools, and more by clicking the button below.