Resistance to accessibility often comes from a lack of connection to its impact. Here’s how I break down that barrier: 1. Humanize Accessibility: Real user testimonials about how accessible designs transform their experiences make accessibility more relatable and urgent for the team. 2. Gamify Accessibility Metrics: Track progress on accessibility KPIs (e.g., readability or navigability scores), sparking a sense of ownership and measurable success. 3. Incentivize Learning: Host workshops and challenge sessions on accessible design, turning education into a hands-on experience. At Stikkman UX, we’ve found gamified KPIs spark healthy competition, transforming accessibility from a checkbox into a shared mission.

In my experience, getting team members on board with integrating accessibility into product design starts with fostering a culture of understanding. I emphasize the importance of empathy by sharing stories that highlight the impact of accessible design on users with disabilities. To motivate the team, I encourage brainstorming sessions and creative workshops focused on accessibility. These collaborative environments allow us to explore innovative solutions together. I find it effective to showcase success stories from competitors or companies that excel in accessibility. Highlighting their achievements and demonstrate the tangible benefits of prioritizing accessibility.

Integrating accessibility into product design is no longer optional—it's essential. According to a study by the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people worldwide live with a disability, and the global market for accessible products is expected to grow to $8 trillion by 2028. In Asia Pacific, countries like Japan and Australia are leading the way, with policies driving accessibility adoption. To bring your team on board, start by sharing these market insights and demonstrating how accessibility fosters inclusivity, broadens reach, and boosts brand loyalty. #InclusiveDesign #Accessibility #BusinessGrowth

The best way I can think of is story telling. “Imagine this.. “ and go through super frustrating moments of how people will struggle to use your application that is supposed to have impact in the world, and identify how the product is alienating all kinds of users, just by ignoring accessibility. If the design/engineering team cares about the impact they are making through their craft, they should have a deep understanding of what can be done for designing better products for EVERYONE!

Integrating accessibility into product design is essential, but it can sometimes face resistance. 1. Educate and Raise Awareness - Conduct workshops and training sessions to educate the team about the importance of accessibility 2. Highlight Business and Legal Benefits - Stress the importance of adhering to accessibility laws and regulations, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 3. Lead by Example - As a leader, demonstrate a commitment to accessibility in your work. Your dedication can inspire the team to follow suit. Does this approach align with your vision?

To bring team members on board with integrating accessibility, start by emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and the broader impact it has on users' lives. Share compelling data and real-world examples that demonstrate how accessible design benefits everyone, not just users with disabilities. Offer workshops or training sessions to demystify accessibility and make it relatable. Involve team members in user testing with people who rely on accessible features, allowing them to experience firsthand the challenges and gains. Foster a collaborative environment where questions and concerns are addressed openly, and reinforce the notion that accessibility leads to a better, more user-centric product for all.

Getting Team Members On Board with Accessibility - Educate on the Impact: Share real-life stories and data demonstrating how accessibility improves lives and broadens the user base. - Showcase Success Stories: Highlight competitors or companies excelling in accessibility to inspire the team. - Provide Resources and Training: Offer workshops or tools to make integrating accessibility smoother and more intuitive. How do you encourage your team to prioritize accessibility?

When team members resist integrating accessibility into product design, the key is to shift the conversation from "extra work" to "added value." Start by educating the team on the business benefits of accessibility—wider reach, improved SEO, and stronger customer loyalty. Highlight that accessibility isn’t just about compliance, but creating a better experience for everyone. Introduce small, manageable changes first and celebrate early wins to build momentum. Did you know? Accessible products can boost user satisfaction and retention by over 25%. By emphasizing both the ethical responsibility and business value, you can turn resistance into enthusiasm. Isn’t it time to make your product accessible to everyone?

Share user stories that highlight how accessible design benefits everyone, enhancing usability and reach. Emphasize how accessibility aligns with business success and innovation. Recognize team contributions and provide accessible design resources and training. By embedding accessibility as a core design value, you can transform it from a requirement into a shared commitment.

When team members resist integrating accessibility, I focus on education and empathy. I share real-world examples of how accessibility improves user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities. Data, case studies, and usability insights help show the business and ethical benefits.