Summary
The metaverse, virtual reality, Web 3.0, distributed infrastructure, the Internet of Things, wearable computing, and AI: all these things are going to change the face of accessibility over the next 10 years. In this talk, Samuel Proulx, Fable’s Accessibility Evangelist, will give you an overview of what the current landscape looks like at the frontier of accessibility and assistive technology. Where’s the research taking us? What might be coming down the pipe?
Key Insights
-
•
Understanding the history of accessibility helps prevent repeating past mistakes.
-
•
Early computing was more accessible due to its text-based command structure.
-
•
Accessibility was often seen as an inspiring hack rather than a necessary feature.
-
•
The introduction of graphical user interfaces complicated accessibility efforts.
-
•
Apple's VoiceOver marked a turning point, integrating accessibility into mainstream tech.
-
•
Current challenges in accessibility persist in gaming and virtual reality.
-
•
The need for built-in accessibility in future technologies like AI and blockchain is critical.
-
•
Improving accessibility also benefits the broader user base, not just those with disabilities.
-
•
Every organization, large and small, has an equal opportunity to innovate in accessibility today.
-
•
Addressing accessibility fosters innovation that can revolutionize technology for everyone.
Notable Quotes
"Those of us who do not understand history are doomed to repeat it."
"Accessibility wasn't considered normal; it was an inspiring hack."
"I don't remember a time when there wasn't a computer talking at me."
"When we design for the edges, we get the middle for free."
"No company organization has any dominant advantage yet."
"Accessibility should not cost extra; it should be built-in."
"The first mover in accessibility will hold an incredible advantage."
"How do we leverage AI best in assistive technology?"
"It's about preserving people's privacy while using their data."
"Solutions to accessibility problems will unlock innovations for everyone."
More Videos
"I came from Atlanta, and I know I saw a bunch of y'all on the flights here."
Jacqui FreyFlow and Superfluidity for Design Orgs
November 7, 2018
"To foster engagement, using emojis and gifs can add the tone and body language that are often missed in text."
Laura Gatewood Laine ProkayBeyond Buzzwords: Adding Heart to Effective Slack Communication
September 23, 2024
"Don't underestimate the skills you already have and how you can teach others."
Johanna KollmannInsights-Driven Product Strategy: Get your Research to Count
December 6, 2022
"If you have a question for a specific speaker, every talk is going to have a thread associated with them."
Bria AlexanderDay 3 Welcome
September 25, 2024
"Throw away the rule book—just try to get as many ideas as you can out as fast as possible."
Billy CarlsonIdeation tips for Product Managers
December 6, 2022
"Don’t underestimate the power of storytelling in conveying users’ needs to stakeholders."
Catherine DubutBridging Physical and Digital Spaces: Approaches to Retail Service Design
March 18, 2021
"Peer recognition programs like shout-out Thursdays are low-effort yet high-impact."
Kim Holt Emma Wylds Pearl Koppenhaver Maisee XiongA Salesforce Panel Discussion on Values-Driven DesignOps
September 8, 2022
"What's the last bad experience you had with another discipline?"
Adrian HowardSturgeon’s Biases
September 25, 2024
"Designers can be a little enigmatic and protective of our work."
Asia HoePartnering with Product: A Journey from Junior to Senior Design
November 29, 2023
