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Transitioning from DEI to IDEA: The Imperative of Accessibility
By: Garrett Crump | October 5, 2023 | Included by Design
In today’s socially conscious world, the transition from Diverstiy, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) marks a significant and necessary shift. Including Accessibility in the spectrum is not just an addition of a term but a crucial enlargement of vision and commitment towards creating a world that is truly inclusive. This blog post elucidates the reasons behind the significance of this shift, and why incorporating accessibility is paramount for businesses and society at large.
The Past Perspective – DEI:
DEI has been a focal point for organizations, emphasizing a diversified workforce that promotes equity and inclusion. While these aspects are substantial, the absence of accessibility in this model was a glaring omission. People with disabilities continued to face barriers, with the model focusing mostly on aspects of gender, race, and ethnicity.
The New Outlook – IDEA:
By bringing in accessibility, the IDEA model goes a step further. It underlines the importance of making all services, products, and environments accessible to everyone, irrespective of their physical abilities, ensuring equal participation and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
Why is This Transition Important?
1. Expansive Inclusion: IDEA endures a comprehensive inclusion model that does not overlook the differently-abled. It confirms that every individual has equal access and opportunities.
2. Economic Benefits: Companies embracing accessibility report higher profitability and productivity. They tap into a larger consumer base and workforce, driving innovation and expanding market reach.
3. Legal Compliance: With global attention on accessibility, countries are enforcing laws ensuring accessible and inclusive environments. IDEA helps organizations align with these regulations, avoiding legal issues and enhancing reputation.
Community and Global Impact: Implementing IDEA demonstrates social responsibility, positively impacting communities and contributing to global inclusivity goals.
Challenges in Implementation and Overcoming Them:
The transition from DEI to IDEA, while imperative, poses its own set of challenges;
1. Lack of Awareness and Understanding: Organizations might lack comprehensive understanding and awareness regarding accessibility issues, leading to inadvertent exclusion. Through collaboration and consultation, conducting workshops, training sessions, and awareness programs can enlighten the workforce and leadership about accessibility, aiding in informed decision-making and policy creation.
2. Financial Concerns: Businesses may be apprehensive about the financial investment required for ensuring accessibility. The goal is to emphasize long-term benefits, including an expanded and enhanced brand image that may outweigh initial costs. Organizations such as Microsoft have seen significant returns on their investments within Accessibility.
3. Technology Constraints: Implementing technology solutions for accessibility can seem complex and daunting. By focusing on working with experts and employing cutting edge, accessible technology can simplify this process. Consulting firms specializing in accessibility can offer guidance and solutions.
4. Resistance to Change: Inherent resistance to change can impede the integration of accessibility in organizational operations. Effective communication, showcasing successful case studies, and gradual implementation can ease this transition.
Case Study: Microsoft
Microsoft faced accessibility challenges head-on. Initially confronting aprehensions and complexities, their steadfast commitment to accessibility led to the creation of various accessible technologies built within their software (speech to text in Microsoft Office) and in their hardware development (Xbox accessible controller), transforming not just their operations but also contributing significantly to global accessibility standards.
Real-World Impact:
1. Transformative Social Impact: Airbnb’s commitment to accessibility has led to the platform offering multiple accessible accommodations, ensuring that travel is inclusive and accessible for most people. This move has not only increased their customer base but also substantially boosted their image as a socially responsible business.
2. Economic Growth: Accenture’s report in 2018 revealed that companies focusing on disability inclusion witnessed higher financial performance compared to their peers. This underlines the direct economic benefit derived from ensuring accessibilty.
3. Innovative Advancements: Google’s commitment to accessibility has spurred the development of various tools and features enhancing accessibility, like automated captions for videos and live relay for calls, contributing to technological advancements and making technology accessible to all.
4. Policy and Legal Alignment: Ensuring accessibility aligns organizations with various legal standards, avoiding penalties and enhancing reputation. The adoption of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) by various organizations globally is a testament to this alignment.
5. Enhanced Employee Satisfaction and Productivity: As per a report by the Conference Board of Canada, businesses with accessibility measures reported higher employee satisfaction and productivity levels, reinforcing the internal organizational benefits derived from accessibility.
Case Study: Google
Google’s commitment to IDEA principles has led to the development of various accessibility tools and features, showcasing the innovation, technological advancement, and global impact achievable through the integration of accessibility.
By expanding and enhancing accessibility measures, organizations not only adhere to ethical and social responsibilities but also pave the way for economic, innovative, and global growth, fostering a society that is inclusively accessible to all.
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