Why Should Organizations Designate Executive Leadership in Accessibility?

Published March 28, 2022

As more of society recognizes the importance of accessibility, organizations are taking their responsibilities more seriously. But executive-level leadership in accessibility is still rare. We examine why organizations should designate executive leadership roles in accessibility. 

What is the role of an executive leader?

Executives are responsible for providing leadership within an organization, the entire organization, or specific departments. They help provide direction, clarify purpose and goals, current strategies for achieving goals and provide motivation for the people they work with.

Executives can also shape and define culture within an organization and significantly influence how the teams they lead develop and succeed.

Why executive leadership matters in accessibility

The goal of improving accessibility is to reduce the barriers that prevent or make it difficult for persons with disabilities to participate fully and access resources, knowledge, services, and experiences.

Here are some examples of these barriers:

  • Attitudinal – Discrimination, stigma, and negative stereotypes are still common and can impact daily life and mental health.
  • Communication – Limited communication options can create social challenges and limit access to information.
  • PhysicalObstacles in the workplace and other environments can inhibit or prevent independent movement.
  • Policy – Persons may be excluded from services, opportunities, and other resources due to insufficient policies or poor awareness.
  • Programmatic – Programs and services can be structured, scheduled, and facilitated in ways that prevent participation.
  • Social – Persons with disabilities are more likely to face social isolation, mistreatment, and employment and income insecurity.
  • Technology – Lacking digital accessibility and assistive devices can create barriers to information, opportunities, and equal participation.

Accessibility is so complex and multifaceted that almost every department and individual in an organization probably has some responsibilities connected to it. Effective leadership is essential in any context, but since accessibility is an organization-wide effort that comprises so many areas of expertise, strong executive leadership can help keep initiatives on track.

What an executive leader in accessibility can help accomplish

An executive leader can help further accessibility initiatives by organizing efforts and facilitating collaboration across departments. By harnessing their knowledge and expertise, they can identify the best ways to draw on the teams' knowledge and individuals contributing to accessibility efforts across the organization to set and execute strategies.

An effective executive leader will build strong teams and support those teams members' personal and professional development, motivating them and helping them excel at addressing the aspects of accessibility they're responsible for.

An executive leader will also take ownership of accessibility goals, aligning efforts with the organization's overall objectives, and ensuring this vision is communicated clearly. And by overseeing accountability, they can ensure that these goals remain appropriately prioritized.

In addition to ensuring accessibility efforts remain on track, an executive leader can have a significant influence on an organization's culture. They can help increase awareness and shape and define attitudes toward accessibility and equality. This contributes to the development of a safer, more inclusive culture overall, leading to positive improvements throughout the organization that could even extend out to the community.

Final thoughts

Every organization is unique regarding the resources available for accessibility initiatives, and any organization that is focused on improving accessibility could benefit from considering executive leadership to help guide those efforts. And even if designating an organizational leader isn't an immediately available option, more prominent organizations with accessibility officers and teams can serve as an example of how to create and execute an effective strategy that everyone can get invested in and contribute to.

 

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