ABILITY SIG

 The Ability SIG is currently seeking a new Co-Chairperson.  Vice-Chairperson is Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion, AbilityNet who is recognised as a leading expert of accessibility and digital inclusion. 

The SIG was formally launched in June 2021 with a presentation by the Chairperson of the BASDA Ability SIG, along with guest speakers Robin Christopherson MBE, and Helen Moloney, Managing Director, All Things Web®.   A summary of the key highlights of the event including the objectives of the SIG, the inaccessibility of the CAPTCHA system, the importance of inclusive design and how to grant greater access to web-based content, the need for a cultural change and maturing models, and public sector accessibility regulations are all covered.

 

Ability SIG is currently engaging with:

The Cabinet Office and various relevant, key government departments and agencies along with specialists across public and private sectors to develop awareness, create best practice methodologies for members and add value to their brands, propositions and addressable markets.

Accessibility & Inclusive Design Guide

Whilst many businesses are compliant with The Equality Act 2010 in terms of diversity and inclusion within their workforce and culture, they have yet to embrace it fully within their software products and other digital assets.

To address this gap BASDA has launched an Accessibility & Inclusive Design Guide which is a must read for businesses of all types and sizes and is aimed at both commercial and technical owners along with those responsible for supporting and executing an accessibility strategy.

It provides guidance and support to help businesses create a business case to spearhead accessibility and future products (including website).   It will also offer support on considerations that a business should take and the steps required to understand accessibility and inclusive design.

Aims & Objectives

To develop awareness, understanding and an adoption approach for our members.

To demonstrate commitment to a broader inclusivity agenda across the wider software industry.

To spearhead ‘Ability’ as one tangible delivery for members’ solutions – to the benefit of all businesses and citizens across the private and public sectors who consume such products and services.

N

Collaborating with Specialists & Members

N

Sharing Knowledge

N

Delivering to an Inclusivity Agenda

N

Developing Best Practice Standards

Who should get involved

Accessibility and inclusion should be embedded in every business. In order for members to move their Ability agenda forward, it’s important to have Sponsors and Champions. Working with BASDA through this SIG, members can be assured they are getting access to the latest developments, industry best practices and access to specialists to help develop clear strategies and goals under this agenda.

Current Agenda

  • BASDA Ability SIG members are developing an agenda that is focused on inclusivity and is engaging with industry specialists and members to develop best practice standards and to integrate ‘Ability’ into the design of inclusive experiences and development of inclusive software products.
  • Raise awareness of the need for inclusivity and diversity to belong on the business agenda.
  • Develop a roadmap for members to align their business strategy to incorporate a commitment to agility.
  • Leverage best practice from both UK&I along with international insights to achieve the best possible outcomes for our members and their customers.
  •  

Become and Member

Find out more about the benefits of BASDA and how to join.