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The UX newsletter for people on a mission


/ November 2022

Bonjour everybody!

This month is all about new people so I thought this would be a great opportunity to tell you how I work – if you don't already know. I design and build websites on Webflow, for non-profits and brands using tech for good. I love working with Webflow for all the built-in accessibility features. It's a platform that's easier to use than Wordpress, and it doesn't need any updates. For many designers, it's become the go-to platform for non-profits projects. SIDE Labs even built a website dedicated to those projects, and they were kind enough to feature one of mine.

Webflow for good featuring Neon's website, designed by Tamara Sredojevic.

Things to know 🧠

Disability is not a dirty word

Sometimes, improving accessibility doesn't require any tech but a change of perspective, an understanding. For example, to help dismantle ableism, you can start with your words. In this article, you'll learn more about getting clear about disability, getting accurate and accessible. It's a long-read and it covers many different aspects around the subject, so pace yourself. Every single bit matters.

How to communicate by using plain English alternatives

Many words and phrases we use every day have simpler words you can use instead. Using plain English makes your writing and communication easier to understand. It’s a more accessible and inclusive way of sharing information. Swap these everyday words and phrases for plain English alternatives.

How to create accessibility statements

Accessibility statements inform people about the accessibility of your website, app, and other digital content. They demonstrate your commitment to accessibility, and to the inclusion of people with disabilities. They can be as simple as briefly outlining that commitment and providing information on how users can get help, should they encounter difficulty in using your content. You can see an example of a simple accessibility statement on my website.

Things to do (or not do) ✅

Don't always use alt-text on a profile picture

If you're putting a testimonial or team members on a page, you might want to show the person's profile picture next to their name. When you do that, set the image as decorative. Otherwise, a screen reader would read the person's name twice. Once in the alt-text and another one in the actual copy.

Label icons with visible copy when possible

This helps people who have memory and processing difficulties. Icon labels also help those who may not interpret symbols in the same way as you. Icons won't necessarily mean the same thing in each culture, so icon labels can help.

Share what you learn

As you learn about accessibility, share what you learn with your team and your supervisor. Depending on your role or industry, they might not be familiar with accessibility. Sharing your wins and mistakes can help them start thinking about how the team can improve.

Is there anything you like/dislike in this newsletter? Or something you didn't quite understand? Don't hesitate to reply to this email or let me know what you think anonymously here. If you'd like to share something you're working on, I'd love to read it and learn from you too.
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Copyright © 2022 Tamara Sredojevic, All rights reserved.

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