Though some might feel the Information Superhighway terminology is tired, the metaphor most definitely rings true. Disabled parking stalls, roomier restroom accommodations, wheelchair ramps, Braille instructions on elevators, and of course, curb-cuts in the sidewalk. Delivery personnel struggled dozens of times a day with heavy loads on hand trucks that had to be hefted those four to five inches per stair at each delivery. Trips to public restrooms with preschoolers could be an exercise in flexibility, as you tried to fit both of you into the stall and undress the child without resorting to standing on the plumbing fixtures. Sidewalk curb-cuts, ramps that bypass stairs, and larger restroom facilities help many of us in life's daily tasks, not just those who use wheelchairs and walkers.
Accessible design begins with an accessible designer.
Many Web page designers innocently envision other users being much like themselves. If you aren't exposed to people with disability issues on a regular basis, it's easy to forget that not everyone has the same physical capabilities. The accessible designer remembers that among other things, Web accessibility is designed to promote access by individuals with varied environments. They may have difficulty reading or comprehending text. They may not have or be able to use a keyboard or mouse.