Plan research with disabled and diverse participants, covering recruitment, accessible session setup, moderation and analysis to make participation more inclusive.
People
Aleks Melnikova
Methods
Inclusive DesignInclusive design identifies who an experience excludes and involves people with different abilities and perspectives in shaping it. Start by examining assumptions and mismatches between a person and the product or environment. Work with people who experience those barriers, then explore solutions that address their needs and may benefit others. Use this approach throughout product and service development, including decisions about interaction, communication and participation. Revisit whose perspectives are missing as the design evolves.
Participant RecruitmentParticipant recruitment finds people whose experience can answer the study’s research questions. Define the relevant user groups and screening criteria before choosing channels such as existing customers, specialist organisations or recruitment agencies. Include people with different access needs, and arrange suitable communication, locations and support. Explain the study, obtain informed consent and schedule participation without pressure. Use recruitment planning before interviews, observation or testing; selecting convenient colleagues can produce findings that poorly represent the people a service must support.