Gouvernance : Comment appréhender l’accessibilité numérique dans les organisations ?

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on understanding and implementing digital accessibility governance within organizations, based on insights shared during a workshop by the "Accessibilité Numérique" working group of Manifeste Inclusion. It outlines key strategies and best practices for professionals across various fields, including HR, IT, and communication, to foster an inclusive digital environment.

Step 1: Understand the Importance of Digital Accessibility

• Recognize that digital accessibility ensures that all individuals, including those with disabilities, can access and use digital resources effectively.
• Familiarize yourself with legal frameworks and standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a roadmap for creating accessible digital content.
• Consider the diverse needs of users to improve overall user experience and engagement.

Step 2: Create a Cross-Functional Team

• Assemble a team with representatives from different departments (HR, IT, communication) to address accessibility from multiple perspectives.
• Encourage collaboration to share insights and develop a cohesive approach to accessibility governance.
• Set clear roles and responsibilities within the team to ensure accountability.

Step 3: Conduct an Accessibility Audit

• Evaluate your current digital assets (websites, applications, documents) for compliance with accessibility standards.
• Use tools such as accessibility checkers and conduct user testing with individuals who have disabilities to identify barriers.
• Document findings and prioritize areas for improvement based on user impact and resource availability.

Step 4: Develop an Accessibility Policy

• Create a formal accessibility policy that outlines your organization’s commitment to digital accessibility.
• Include specific goals, strategies, and timelines for implementation.
• Ensure the policy is aligned with your organization's overall mission and values.

Step 5: Provide Training and Resources

• Offer training sessions for employees to raise awareness about digital accessibility and its importance.
• Provide resources and guidelines to help staff implement accessibility best practices in their work.
• Encourage continuous learning by sharing updates on accessibility standards and technologies.

Step 6: Implement Accessibility Measures

• Begin with quick wins, such as adding alternative text to images and improving document formatting.
• Gradually implement more complex changes, like redesigning web pages with accessibility in mind.
• Involve users with disabilities in the testing phase to ensure changes meet their needs effectively.

Step 7: Monitor and Evaluate Progress

• Set up regular assessments to measure the effectiveness of your accessibility initiatives.
• Gather feedback from users and team members to identify areas for further enhancement.
• Adjust policies and practices based on evaluation outcomes to ensure ongoing improvement.

Conclusion

By following these steps, organizations can effectively integrate digital accessibility into their governance practices. Prioritizing accessibility not only complies with legal requirements but also enhances user engagement and satisfaction. As a next step, consider initiating discussions within your organization to establish a dedicated accessibility task force and begin your accessibility audit today.