In 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) opened a new world for millions of people with disabilities by requiring businesses to make their physical locations accessible. Forward thinking business leaders are making sure their digital spaces are also accessible and are embracing the universal design that will help them tap into new consumer markets. But too many businesses—including pizza chain Domino’s—have made their websites (often unintentionally) inaccessible. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court signaled that all companies must do better, that physical accessibility and digital accessibility are two sides of the same coin.
Companies Need to Do More for Employees and Customers with Disabilities
Accessibility makes products better for everyone.
November 13, 2019
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Summary.
Professionals with disabilities are a larger and more valuable population than many business leaders realize. In our study, we found that 30% of white-collar employees meet the federal government’s definition of having a disability. Companies reap rewards when they signal that they are a rare organization offering a culture that supports this talent cohort. They know that ADA compliance is just a tiny step in the direction of all the gains to be made from fully including both consumers–and employees–with disabilities. So how do you capture the innovation that comes from including your consumers—and employees– with disabilities in your business? There are three ways. First, recognize the innovative potential of employees with disabilities. Then, create inclusive environments that empower professionals with disabilities. Finally, expand your definition of innovation so that you’re not just innovating for edge cases.