Beyond Compliance: A User-Centered Approach to Web Accessibility through the Accessibility Qualifier
Ivana Harari, Sergio Luján-Mora, Javier Díaz
Proceedings of 2025 IEEE CHILEAN Conference on Electrical, Electronics Engineering, Information and Communication Technologies (CHILECON), p. 1-8, Valparaíso (Chile), October 28-30 2025. https://doi.org/10.1109/CHILECON66915.2025.11476376
(CHILECON'25)
Congreso internacional / International conference
Resumen
Despite existing legislation, web accessibility remains a major challenge in software engineering, often excluding people with disabilities (PwD) and causing emotional distress. Traditional evaluations focus on technical standards, overlooking the real experiences of PwD. This article presents the evaluation of the Accessibility Qualifier (AQ), a tool that enables PwD to assess web accessibility based on their own perceptions and emotions. Using inquiry methods, usability tests, and focus groups, the study revealed that AQ not only meets regulatory standards of accessibility but also enhances user experience. AQ empowers PwD to report digital barriers and helps website developers better understand the real-world impact of inaccessibility, promoting a more inclusive and equitable web.