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Re: Usability vs. Accessibility

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From: Moore,Michael (Accessibility) (HHSC)
Date: Mar 23, 2016 9:34AM

The thing that I try to keep in mind is that to the user who cannot find the information, use the service or complete a transaction on you application it just doesn't matter whether it is a "usability" or an "accessibility" issue. As an accessibility coordinator I regularly receive calls from people without disabilities who cannot use our web services because of technical problems or "usability" issues. They call me because they cannot "access" the service. When someone cannot access a service because a "usability" problem or combination of usability problems prevents them from accessing the service, and when those problems prevent access for people with disabilities in a disproportionate manner, then the organization may be discriminating against people with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act if the service is being provided in the US. If the organization receives Federal funding for the program or service then they may also be violating section 504 of the rehabilitation act. 504 does not just apply to education.

Mike Moore
Accessibility Coordinator
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Civil Rights Office
(512) 438-3431 (Office)