Explaining WCAG Principles: Perceivable - The Web as a Customer Service Medium

Explaining WCAG Principles: Perceivable - The Web as a Customer Service Medium

The web is a powerful tool that has transformed the way we communicate, gather information, and conduct business. It has created a platform where people can express their opinions, share their knowledge, and feel consulted. This article explores the commonalities between the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) principle of perceivable and the concept of "Why wasn't I consulted" (WWIC) in the context of the web as a customer service medium.

Perceivable, one of the WCAG principles, emphasizes the importance of making web content accessible and understandable to all users, including those with disabilities. This principle can be broken down into four guidelines: text alternatives, time-based media, adaptability, and distinguishability. These guidelines ensure that people can perceive and comprehend the content presented on the web, regardless of their abilities.

On the other hand, the concept of WWIC highlights the fundamental human need to be consulted, engaged, and to exercise their knowledge and power. The web has become a medium that taps into this need effectively, allowing individuals to voice their opinions, contribute to discussions, and shape the content they consume. Platforms like Wikipedia, Reddit, and YouTube have successfully harnessed the power of WWIC, providing spaces where people can be consulted and where their voices matter.

The connection between the WCAG principle of perceivable and the concept of WWIC lies in the fact that both revolve around meeting the needs and expectations of users. WCAG aims to ensure that web content is perceivable to all users, including those with disabilities, while WWIC recognizes the human desire to be consulted and engaged. By incorporating these principles into web design and content creation, we can create a more inclusive and engaging online experience for everyone.

To apply these principles effectively, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Provide text alternatives for non-text content: As per the WCAG guideline 1.1, all non-text content should have a text alternative that describes the content. This ensures that users with visual impairments or those who rely on assistive technologies can access and understand the information conveyed through images, videos, and other non-text elements.

• 2. Incorporate user-generated content and feedback: To tap into the human need to be consulted, consider incorporating user-generated content and feedback mechanisms on your website or platform. This can include features like comments sections, discussion forums, or surveys. By giving users a voice and valuing their opinions, you can foster a sense of community and engagement.

• 3. Design for adaptability and distinguishability: WCAG guideline 1.3 emphasizes the importance of presenting content in different ways without losing information. This means designing websites and applications that are responsive, adaptable to different devices and screen sizes, and allow users to customize their experience. Additionally, WCAG guideline 1.4 highlights the need for content to be distinguishable, ensuring that users can easily identify and perceive the foreground content against its background.

In conclusion, the WCAG principle of perceivable and the concept of WWIC in the web as a customer service medium share common ground in their focus on meeting user needs and fostering engagement. By incorporating the WCAG guidelines into web design and content creation, and by recognizing the human need to be consulted, we can create a more accessible, inclusive, and engaging online experience for all users.