Introduction

When it comes to design, businesses often prioritize aesthetics and functionality over accessibility. However, this approach can be costly in the long run. Inclusive design, which involves creating products and services that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, can be a game-changer for businesses. Not only does it improve the user experience for people with disabilities, but it also opens up new market opportunities and increases revenue. In this blog post, we’ll explore the cost-effectiveness of inclusive design and why businesses can’t afford to ignore it.

The Business Case for Inclusive Design

According to a report by the World Health Organization, approximately 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability. This translates to around 1 billion people who may face barriers when interacting with products and services that are not designed with accessibility in mind. By ignoring this demographic, businesses are missing out on a significant market share. In fact, a study by Accenture found that companies that prioritize accessibility can increase their revenue by up to 28%.

Moreover, inclusive design can also reduce costs in the long run. For instance, designing products that are accessible to everyone can eliminate the need for costly modifications or updates down the line. Additionally, companies that prioritize accessibility are less likely to face costly lawsuits and reputational damage.

The Cost of Exclusion

On the other hand, excluding people with disabilities can be costly for businesses. According to a report by the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, inaccessible websites and digital platforms can result in lost revenue of up to $6.9 billion annually in the United States alone. Furthermore, companies that fail to provide accessible products and services may face lawsuits and reputational damage, which can be costly to repair.

For example, in 2016, the National Federation of the Blind sued Domino’s Pizza for failing to provide an accessible website and mobile app. The lawsuit resulted in a significant reputational blow for the company and a costly settlement.

Inclusive Design in Practice

So, what does inclusive design look like in practice? Here are a few examples:

  • Physical Products: Companies like IKEA and Apple have incorporated inclusive design into their product lines by creating flat-pack furniture that can be easily assembled by people with mobility impairments and designing devices with assistive technologies like VoiceOver.
  • Digital Products: Companies like Microsoft and Google have prioritized accessibility in their digital products, such as incorporating screen reader technology and high contrast modes into their software.

The Return on Investment

So, what is the return on investment for inclusive design? According to a study by the Return on Disability Group, companies that prioritize accessibility can expect a return on investment of up to 533%. This is compared to a return on investment of 150% for companies that do not prioritize accessibility.

Moreover, companies that prioritize accessibility are also more likely to experience long-term success. According to a report by Accenture, companies that prioritize accessibility are 2.5 times more likely to remain in the market for 10 years or more.

Conclusion

Inclusive design is no longer just a moral imperative; it’s a business necessity. By prioritizing accessibility, companies can tap into new market opportunities, reduce costs, and increase revenue. We would love to hear from you - have you experienced the benefits of inclusive design firsthand? Share your stories and insights in the comments below!

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