Users as Experts - reducing barriers on the web by utilising the target groups´ experiences
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Föreningen Furuboda - Föreningen Furuboda Åhus |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 670 075 |
| Project duration | September 2020 - August 2022 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Challenge-driven innovation - Phase 2 Collaboration |
Important results from the project
The project responds to the increased need for competence in the area of accessible web. The project has designed and tested a community college education course where users with disabilities become experts in web accessibility, based on their personal experiences. The course was supplemented by an accessibility feedback feature that makes it easier for users to report accessibility issues on public websites.
Expected long term effects
Participating municipalities reports that the input of the user Experts based on their personal experiences is a very valuable resource in their work to improve accessibility on public websites. The project evaluation also shows that the course has a potential to contribute to increased employment among people with disabilities.
Approach and implementation
The user experts have been trained in web accessibility during a one-year course. Within the training, the user experts also gained practical experience in reviewing websites, through practice with pilot-testing municipalities. The training was designed in collaboration between a college, subject matter experts, employers and other stakeholders. The project also developed a feedback mechanism model for the web that is inherently accessible and makes it easier for website owners to make use of users´ experiences of accessibility.