# The Equalitines' Group Resource

## Our Opinion

As a group we think that equality is one of the most important factors that you have to consider in all disciplines of organisations. In the past it had been severely overlooked, but this is now progressing. However, we feel that more could be done.

In terms of accessibility, we feel that the current guidelines put in place are not strong enough to make sure that all Websites, Operating Systems, and Workstations are accessible for all. For example, some Websites pass the validators but are still not accessible for some people. Our opinion is that there needs to be a stronger focus on these techniques. However, we think that the type of Website that is being created should be taken into account first. Stricter sanctions should be placed on Websites of profit-making organisations than on someone who is practising their Web design skills.

Nevertheless, those learning the design of Websites, software or hardware will only implement accessibility for all if organisations promote universal design in their products. For example, at university there are special labs and interfaces for those with disabilities and laptops and screen readers available for those who request them. We propose an approach that would ensure all labs come with specialist accessible features as a standard for all users as a wider range of users should be considered when designing all computer systems.

Some companies design Websites that have a standardised page for most users and a seperate page that is more accessible. We think that this is a form of segregating users as only the people that have some form of disability will view them. Whilst this form of positive discrimination is a forwards step to thinking about others, it is still an after-thought in terms of an original design that could satisfy the needs of everyone.

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