Our accessibility commitment

Corey Lee presenting on stage at Design Outlook 2025, wearing a headset mic and gesturing mid-talk against the event’s bold blue backdrop.

At our events, we pride ourselves on setting a high standard for accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and empowered to participate. 

However, we recognise that our digital presence has not yet reached the same level of accessibility and inclusion. We are committed to doing better because we must do better.

Our commitments:

  1. Closing the gap: 

    While we have excelled in creating accessible physical environments, we acknowledge the need to bring this same level of inclusivity to our online experience. We are actively working to improve the accessibility of our website, aligning with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA.

 

  1. Moving beyond compliance: 

    We don’t just aim to close the gap—we are going further. Inspired by the insights of thought leaders such as Nikhil and Kelly, who emphasised the importance of usability, we are committed to creating a digital experience that goes beyond ticking the boxes. We will ensure that accessibility is woven into every stage of our design and development processes.

 

  1. Ongoing evaluation and improvement: 

    We regularly audit our digital platforms and make continuous improvements to enhance usability and inclusivity. By conducting usability testing with diverse audiences and inviting feedback, we aim to create a digital space that is intuitive and inclusive for everyone.

Berlin Liew presenting at a Design Outlook event, captured from an elevated angle. She is wearing a stylish light yellow blazer and shorts with white sneakers, holding a tablet in one hand while gesturing confidently with the other. The stage features a purple sofa, decorative side tables, and atmospheric smoke effects, with wooden floors and a modern, dynamic setup enhancing the scene.

Our principles

  1. Beyond compliance, towards usability: 

    We are moving from merely meeting guidelines to enhancing the overall user experience, ensuring that our website is easy to navigate and enjoyable for all users, regardless of their needs.

     

  2. Inclusive by design: 

    We are expanding our approach to ensure our website is welcoming to all. This includes introducing features like pronouns on presenter profiles, ensuring that individuals can be addressed in ways that respect their identity. We are also exploring additional ways to foster inclusivity in our online interactions, such as providing options for preferred communication formats.

A performer at a Design Outlook event, holding a microphone close to their mouth while interacting with equipment on a table. They have curly hair, a beard, and are wearing a dark jacket. Microphone stands and blurred details in the background create a dynamic and creative setting, capturing the energy of the moment.

Achievements and future goals

The Sofitel venue for DO24, showcasing a vibrant and bustling networking event. The long, elegant room features dramatic purple lighting projected onto the ceiling, ornate chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows on one side. Attendees fill the space, engaging in conversations and exploring booths such as ‘Girls in Tech,’ with a modern architectural backdrop visible through the windows. The atmosphere is lively and sophisticated, reflecting the energy of the event.
Highlights
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Enhanced keyboard navigation for users who rely on alternative input methods.
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Support for screen readers and other assistive technologies.
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Accessible media content: Including alternative text for images, captions for videos, and text transcripts where appropriate.
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Text-to-speech integration: For users with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
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High-contrast mode: A feature allowing users to switch between different contrast settings for easier readability.
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Language and localisation options: Offering the site in multiple languages to cater to non-English speakers.
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Feedback loops for accessibility improvements: Actively inviting suggestions through a visible accessibility feedback form on each page.
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