Defining Accessible Technology
Accessible technology is a technology that can be used by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. It is known to incorporate universal design and functions under the assumption that not all users use the same devices and therefore should accommodate that. The whole goal of A.T. is to return independence to its users.
Web accessibility should be perceivable, operable, understandable, and lastly robust. WCGA covers everything that needs to be covered to achieve the best care for those needing accessible technology.
See how to meet WCGA expectations here!
Difference between Accessible Technology and Assistive Technology
Assistive and Accessible Technology are two separate ideas with a common goal. Assistive technology is usually a piece of technology designed to perform a specific task for a specific disability. Accessible technology, on the other hand, is a technology that's been designed with the needs of many different users in mind.
Assistive technology can help clients but can also provide much-needed help to employees. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and similar laws require that technology be provided to these individuals to help them obtain a higher quality of life. Some of these things can include screen readers, Screen magnifiers, and Assistive keyboards. These things can help an individual go from struggling to functional creating a successful work environment with a pleasurable online experience.
Accessible technology on the other hand, really focuses on reaching everyone collectively. This usually indicates that a website is already implementing anything that the common public might need.
Being familiar with these will enhance web designers and UX designers to help include more people in their brands and businesses.