Ryan Magoon - Building for Disabled Power Users

Learn from the experiences of organizations that prioritize accessibility, hiring disabled power users and involving them in product development to create better user experiences and increase product value.

Key takeaways
  • Learn about the importance of building products for disabled power users, who are efficient and proficient in using technology.
  • Understand that accessibility is not just a compliance issue, but a way to create better user experiences and increase product value.
  • Recognize that disabled power users are not just users, but insiders who can provide valuable feedback and insights.
  • Consider including disabled users in research and testing to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and desires.
  • Focus on building empathy and understanding through real-world interactions and feedback.
  • Embrace the idea that disabled power users are not just “different” but have unique skills and perspectives that can be valuable to the organization.
  • Learn from the experiences of organizations that are doing accessibility well, such as PayPal, and how they prioritize accessibility and involve disabled users in the design process.
  • Understand the importance of investing in accessibility training and resources, not just for specially trained employees, but for all employees.
  • Realize that accessibility is not just a technical issue, but a human-centered issue that requires understanding and empathy.
  • Identify ways to make onboarding and documentation more accessible, such as providing alternative formats and clear instructions.
  • Prioritize building relationships with disabled users and involving them in the development process to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and preferences.
  • Understand that accessibility is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement and iteration.
  • Learn from the experiences of organizations that have successfully included disabled users in the development process, such as companies that have hired disabled developers and involved them in the design process.
  • Recognize that accessibility is not just a moral obligation, but a business opportunity to create products that are more inclusive and valuable to a broader range of users.