The speaker introduces himself as head of accessibility at the Government Digital Service. The speaker identifies GOV.UK as the UK's official government web presence. The speaker says old government content was redirected to the National Archives to preserve the history of government communications. The speaker points to iOS 7 Switch Control as a one-button way for users with motor-neuron disease to access services. The speaker calls JAWS the most widely used screen reader he considers when building accessible products. The speaker presents NVDA as a free, open-source screen reader.
People
Joshua Marshall
Methods
Usability TestingUsability testing reveals where people struggle while attempting realistic tasks with a prototype or service. In a moderated session, a researcher observes the participant and may ask them to explain their thinking. Use it to investigate confusing language, layouts or interactions and identify improvements. Agree research questions, recruit likely users and prepare believable tasks that do not reveal the solution. Explain that the service is being tested, then mostly watch and listen rather than guiding participants. Record observations and follow up on unclear behaviour. Plan accessible sessions, including participants’ own assistive technology when appropriate.