solutions . They also provide free , valuable factsheets on their website .
Their journey began at a time when accessibility services were relatively niche , but today , there is a growing global awareness of its importance . Over the years , AbilityNet has witnessed significant growth in the accessibility field . The proliferation of digital accessibility consulting , plugins , and related services has been driven by corporate recognition and legal obligations , particularly in the United States . As more companies realize the need to cater to a diverse range of customers , the competition in this space continues to expand .
Despite the mounting competition , AbilityNet has not only persevered but achieved remarkable milestones . One such milestone is the TechSharePro conference , which has transformed from a niche event into a platform that attracts major industry players like Apple and Google . This shift underscores the recognition of AbilityNet ' s growing influence in the realm of digital accessibility .
Another noteworthy accomplishment is the establishment of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals ( IAAP ), where AbilityNet holds the honor of being a founding member . IAAP has elevated accessibility to a recognized status , pushing for a more professional approach to this crucial field . This has resulted in increased awareness and the integration of accessibility features in mainstream products .
This perfectly aligns with AbilityNet ' s mission which at its core lies a profound belief in inclusivity . They emphasize that the digital world is as essential as the physical one . In an era where technology plays a pivotal role in every aspect of life , digital inclusion becomes a matter of equality . It ensures that everyone , regardless of their abilities , has access to the same opportunities , services , and information .
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of digital accessibility even further . The rapid transition to digital communication and services during the pandemic made accessible video calls , captions , and other features imperative . Major tech companies have recognized that digital inclusion is no longer an afterthought but an absolute necessity .
AbilityNet stands as a vital advocate for this digital inclusivity thrust , bridging the divide to ensure that technology is accessible to all . Their strategy now incorporates ESG principles to align with their values of inclusion and sustainability . As part of their ESG strategy , the charity continues to build disability awareness in organisations in all sectors , fostering a generation that is more attuned to the needs of disabled individuals from an early age . This proactive approach aims to create a more inclusive society by nurturing empathy and understanding .
The key takeaway from AbilityNet ' s work is that , in a world driven by technology , digital accessibility is not a luxury ; it ' s a necessity . Organizations , policymakers and individuals must work collectively to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age . AbilityNet ' s tireless dedication illustrates the power of technology to unite people and the importance of inclusivity in our digital future .
Our core mission is about disability , not technology . What are people with disabilities trying to do ? What are the barriers they face ? Some of them are social , some are technical . We help them with the technical barriers . We enable them to address whatever it is they ' re trying to do in that space .
~ Mark Walker
Resources : www . abilitynet . org . uk www . techsharepro . com www . abilitynet . org . uk / factsheets www . mycomputermyway . com www . abilitynet . org . uk / training
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