Progress, Not Perfection: The Mantra Driving Accessibility at Included by Design
By: Garrett Crump | August 11, 2023 | Included by Design
In the contemporary age of rapid digital expansion and societal evolution, the pressing demand for accessible spaces – both digital and physical – is indisputable. Yet, as we stride toward building inclusive environments, we at Included by Design stand firmly by a mantra: “Progress, not perfection.”
Understanding the 'Progress, Not Perfection' Philosophy
At its core, the idea revolves around valuing tangible progress over an elusive state of ‘perfection’. It’s about celebrating the journey, acknowledging the incremental improvements, and understanding that every step, no matter how small, is crucial.
This philosophy isn’t confined solely to the sphere of accessibility; it can be felt across multiple domains of our lives. Take the realms of mental and physical health, for example. While the pursuit of optimal health is a noble vision, it’s not the occasional grand gestures but rather the consistent, everyday actions that lay the foundation for lasting well-being. Whether it’s choosing a nutritious meal over fast food, adding an extra set in your workout routine, or taking moments of mindfulness amidst a hectic day, these small yet meaningful steps collectively steer us towards better health.
Similarly, in the vast and unpredictable world of business, success isn’t typically achieved through sporadic leaps but through consistent, forward momentum. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), metrics that companies utilize to gauge their progress toward strategic objectives, often echo this sentiment. Rarely do businesses experience meteoric rises without first navigating a series of smaller milestones. It’s the persistence in refining strategies, learning from feedback, and making incremental improvements that cumulatively lead to notable achievements.
In both health and business, just as in accessibility, the journey encompasses a series of steps, each one significant in its own right. While the allure of instant success or perfect health is tempting, it’s the gradual, sustained progress that crafts enduring results and narratives of true resilience.
Why This Approach Matters in Accessibility
1. Reduces Overwhelm and Paralysis: Aiming for a flawless accessible design can feel overwhelming, especially for organizations just starting out in their accessibility and inclusion journey. By prioritizing progress, we can tackle issues step by step, without feeling paralyzed by the vastness of the task.
2. Encourages Action: When organizations know they don’t need to be perfect from the outset, they’re more likely to take initial steps toward accessibility. Each step brings them closer to the ultimate goal.
3. Creates a Continuous Learning Environment: In chasing perfection, there’s a risk of complacency once a certain standard is achieved. However, prioritizing progress means continuous improvement, innovation, and adaptability become ingrained within the culture.
Focusing on the Positive in a World of Negative Association
In a digital era, where negative feedback can go viral in minutes, organizations are often apprehensive about diving into areas where they lack expertise. The fear of negative backlash for not getting accessibility “perfect” can deter many from even starting.
By shifting the focus from what’s lacking to what’s been achieved, we foster an environment of encouragement. It’s crucial to highlight the strides an organization is making, no matter how incremental. This positive reinforcement can be transformative. It’s not about turning a blind eye to areas that need improvement, but about shining a spotlight on the steps being taken toward a more inclusive world.
Driving Business Behaviours for Social Good
By emphasizing the importance of progress, we can inspire businesses to act as catalysts for change. When companies see their efforts recognized and celebrated – even if they’re not yet perfect – they’re more motivated to further these initiatives. The result? A cascading effect where businesses not only acknowledge the importance of accessibility but actively strive to enhance it.
Consider the implications for internal stakeholders. When employees see their company lauded for its steps toward inclusivity, it fosters a sense of pride and motivates continued efforts. For external reporting, it helps reshape narratives, placing organizations not as entities lagging in accessibility but as ones on a transformative journey.
At Included by Design, our emphasis on progress over perfection isn’t about settling for mediocrity. It’s about acknowledging the realities of the path to inclusivity. It’s challenging, it’s ongoing, and every step counts.
In championing this approach, we aim to inspire a paradigm shift. Let’s celebrate the milestones, drive positive behaviours, and remember that in the journey toward true accessibility, every effort – no matter how incremental – is worthy of recognition. In doing so, we may just catalyze the changes necessary to address some of society’s most pressing challenges.
To learn more about Included by Design’s process please click HERE and feel free to contact us to learn more.
