Mobile Apps Accessibility standard. Discussion by Yacoob Woozeer

Introduction Student on MSc Digital Inclusion course Submitted proposal for Mobile Apps Accessibility Standard Work for the Department for Work and Pensions - Accessibility Services Team Responsible for accessibility of new ICT projects and compliance with standards and Equality Act. Several new projects considering mobile apps and need to factor in accessibility

Background Several services are now moving to online offerings. In some cases the online channel is the only way to access content Use of an alternative channel can be more costly and more time consuming Several DWP services moving online. Fundamental shift to the e- channel for internal and external customers

Technology More smartphones and tablets are now being sold. Some reasons are: Cheaper Simpler Other benefits Most mobile devices can install mobile apps which are increasing in number every day. Mobile apps often represent a simplified and streamlined way for a user to access content or to interact with data

Problems Mobile apps often do not factor in accessibility In some cases they are considered as an addition to a website. If a user cannot access the website should the app be accessible? Cost – no home internet access Convenience – no online access available or set up does not cater for user Capability – can the user access the website, PC or laptop? Mobile apps can often be the best option for some users but they are let down by the app not being accessible.

Summary A mobile app should factor in accessibility There is some guidance available for mobile devices: W3C Mobile Web Best Practices ISO could be used for mobile apps BS8878 covers some mobile accessibility Because several platforms are available the app itself should build in accessibility rather than relying on the operating system or browser?