Intelligence Community Design System

We use the term ‘accessible’ to mean that someone isn’t excluded from something based on experiencing a disability, impairment or because they think differently.

The Design System is built around the Social Model of Disability ¹ .

It states that people are disabled by barriers in society rather than being disabled by a medical definition, impairment or neurodiversity they experience.

This model recognises that, with sensible consideration, we can empower people to use our technology in a way that works for them.

Don't consider those with 'accessibility needs' as a defined group of people with 'disability and impairments'.

When we talk about accessible apps and services, most people think initially of visually impaired or blind users who might use screen readers.

In fact, we need to consider a lot of needs people may have, like motor impairments and neurological diversity. Good (and accessible) design considers implications of the full spectrum of diversity.

Accessible apps are always more usable for people who don't have accessibility needs. If you become skilled at considering accessibility, you'll always end up with a better product.

Sometimes apps and services are designed for the 'perfect user' ² or only the users we have access to. These might be usable, but that doesn't mean they're accessible.

Something can be accessible to some people while being inaccessible to others. An app with a real-time data table might work really well for sighted users and those who use a screen reader.

However, if someone has a different reading comprehension or has anxiety from information overload, they may experience significant issues if table rows are rapidly changing or flashing.

1. Social model of disability . Scope . Accessed 5 November 2022. Back to content

2. Accessibility in government. What we mean when we talk about accessibility . Alistair Duggin, UK Government Digital Service . 16 May 2016. Accessed 5 November 2022. Back to content