English

German UPA

The German UPA is the professional association of the German Usability and User Experience Professionals that operates under the umbrella of the international UXPA (User Experience Professionals Association). The association is a network of and for usability experts who are committed to sharing knowledge and shaping public opinion on issues associated with usability and user experience.

The goal of each local UXPA Chapter is to offer people with the same interests the opportunity to come together regularly to share their experience and encourage each other in the usability profession.

Within the German UPA, the members are involved in working groups that cover a range of different topics. This is where they exchange their expert knowledge and collaborate with others throughout the country.

One of the working groups is dedicated to the topic of accessibility.

Working group for accessibility

The working group for accessibility of the German UPA represents the interface between accessibility and usability.

On the one hand, its members are experts in accessibility who provide information about accessibility to usability professionals. This is because accessibility needs to be considered as a requirement in human-centered design from the outset, and cannot be “tested into” a software program or a website at a later stage. Accessibility means added value for everyone, not just for marginal groups.

On the other hand, they are usability professionals who represent the subject of usability, for example the human-centered processes and generally applicable usability principles, vis-á-vis the accessibility experts. After all, accessibility alone is not enough if there is no usability to go with it.

In addition to public relations, the group generates a lively exchange of knowledge and experience.

Journal ‘Accessibility – Universal Design'

The journal ‚Accessibility – Universal Design' was created by members of the working group and published in 2010 in German language. The slightly adapted content of the current English edition considers the international audience.

In the journal, we explain how usability professionals can consider accessibility in their designs by following the design principles of Universal Design.

Readers will find many examples and hands-on tips as well as an overview on the current accessibility guidelines, and finally recommendations for further reading.

Last not least, we show that accessibility is profitable – Beneficial for All – that’s the motto of the journal.

Any feedback is welcome! Just write an email to: AK-Barrierefreiheit@germanupa.de