Glossary

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Ability-Based Design(also: ABD)

A design philosophy that focuses on what users can do rather than what they cannot, adapting systems to leverage each individual's specific abilities. Instead of designing for a "typical" user and then adding accessibility accommodations, ability-based design starts from the…

Access Barriers(also: Barriers to Access)

Obstacles that prevent or impede disabled people from fully participating in activities, accessing services, or using technologies. Access barriers can be physical (inaccessible buildings), digital (websites without screen reader support), attitudinal (employer discrimination),…

Access Conflict(also: Accessibility Conflict, Competing Access Needs)

A situation in which the accessibility requirements of one person conflict with or undermine the accessibility requirements of another person. For example, a student prone to migraines may need low lighting in a classroom, while a student with low vision requires bright, direct…

Accessible Design Methods(also: Inclusive Design Methods)

Design research methodologies that have been adapted or created to enable participation by people with disabilities, ensuring they can contribute as active co-creators rather than passive subjects. Traditional design methods like sketching, storyboarding, card sorting, and…

Accessible Prototyping(also: Inclusive Prototyping)

The practice of adapting prototyping methods and materials to enable participation by people with disabilities, particularly in early-stage design activities. Accessible prototyping goes beyond simply providing alternative materials—it requires holistic adaptation of the entire…

Accommodations(also: Reasonable Accommodations, Workplace Accommodations)

Modifications or adjustments to environments, processes, or practices that enable disabled people to participate equally. In employment contexts, reasonable accommodations may include flexible scheduling, remote work options, modified job duties, assistive technology provision,…

Age-Related Decline(also: Age-Related Impairment, Age-Related Changes)

The gradual reduction in physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities that occurs as part of the natural aging process. Age-related declines that affect technology use include reduced visual acuity (difficulty reading small text and icons), decreased fine motor control (difficulty…

Assistive Technology(also: AT, Adaptive Technology)

Any device, software, equipment, or system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities. Assistive technology spans a broad range from low-tech solutions like magnifying glasses and walking canes to high-tech systems such…

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