What Are the Benefits of Accessibility Leadership?

Published August 24, 2022

It may still be somewhat rare to find leadership roles focused only on accessibility in many organizations, but as prioritizing accessibility becomes a more common goal, strong leaders in accessibility are emerging. But what are the benefits of accessibility leadership?

Organized strategy

With leadership comes ownership and accountability and the potential for a more organized accessibility initiative. Leadership can spearhead analyzing the state of things to clarify goals and communicate them to other leaders and stakeholders within the organization. They can also serve as the liaison that communicates these goals and progress to the community and external stakeholders as needed.

There are many aspects to consider when it comes to accessibility, and the work necessary to improve it usually involves the cooperation of everyone within an organization. Leadership can facilitate collaboration throughout, keeping expectations clear and progress on track.

Dedicated advocacy and action

Accessibility is complex, and without dedicated effort, it can get put on the back burner if it never gets prioritized among other tasks and initiatives. It's not uncommon to see an emphasis on advocacy and education without taking the necessary actions to effect change.

Ongoing advocacy and education are essential, but the ultimate goal—improving equity by breaking down barriers to accessibility—requires action. Designating leadership focused on accessibility ensures that both advocacy and action are prioritized and worked on.

Stronger teams and collaboration

Since accessibility requires collaboration throughout an organization, building teams that focus on the most specialized aspects can contribute to progress, and leadership can significantly make an impact here. An effective accessibility leader will be able to build effective teams and help them develop the skills they need to achieve the organization's accessibility goals.

And a strong leader will focus not only on professional training and development; they'll also support and motivate their team members. By working together with their teams, they'll be able to help develop their employees' ideas and approaches, consolidating input from many perspectives to reevaluate and redefine goals and strategies over time. These cumulative efforts will lead to increased productivity and better results.

Shaping the culture of the organization

Breaking down barriers to accessibility isn't only about the systemic and logistic changes that need to be made. It's also about shifting culture and mindsets. Accessibility leadership can have a massive impact within an organization by fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.

This will positively impact the working conditions within the organization, create a safer, more welcoming environment for employees who have disabilities, and encourage diversity. And a more diverse, fulfilled workforce will make greater contributions to accessibility improvements and other positive changes within an organization while providing more perspectives, ideas, and solutions regarding the organization's overall goals.

Ultimately, the positive effects of establishing a positive culture and improving accessibility within an organization don't only benefit the organization; it can make a difference through every individual who interacts with the organization somehow.

Strengthen individual effort through leadership

Accessibility can be much more challenging and complex when approaching it without a well-planned strategy, and leadership can help implement and sustain that. Effective leadership can guide an organization toward improved accessibility in the workplace, a happier, more secure, and more productive workforce, and a better culture.

Effecting widespread societal change is a gradual process, and it starts with the things we can do on an individual level. But with effective leadership within organizations, companies, institutions, and other communities, we can amplify individual efforts and get us that much closer to a barrier-free society.

 

PDF Remediation Software - Free Online Event!

Join us on Tuesday, April 9th, at 1 PM ET for a free online event to explore how to evaluate and select PDF remediation software for your business. Click here to learn more about this event and to register.

Click here to see our Events Calendar.

Accessibility.com's 2024 events will utilize the Zoom Events platform, offering a virtual expo hall for attendees to meet with prospective vendors. If your company is interested in being part of the expo hall, don't hesitate to get in touch with Amanda@Accessibility.com.

Vendor Directory

Accessibility.com offers the premier impartial listing of digital accessibility vendors.  Search for products and services by category, subcategory, or company name.  Check out our new Vendor Directory here.

Comments