Problem Statement
Nuzhat Samreen
There are many types of low vision (also known as “partially sighted”): poor acuity (a vision that is not sharp), tunnel vision (seeing only the middle of the visual field), central field loss (seeing only the edges of the visual field), and clouded vision. Individuals with low vision may encounter multiple barriers on the web, for example, web pages that are difficult to navigate and web pages that have poor use of colour contrast, and usage of incorrect font size that makes it difficult to read. Amongst a few of these things, arranging content in a way that it is easy for users using assistive technology to comprehend the information presented, is one of the most important components of web accessibility. There is a need to design solutions that properly address the problems blind users have and create a better experience on the web. This could be done through understanding the problems that are distinct to blind users regarding the information architecture of the shopping websites they access. Then, design solutions can be proposed that properly address these problems and improve users’ experience. However, to be able to suggest design solutions to the key problems blind users encounter on the web, a thorough understanding of how specific design solutions can benefit blind users’ experience on the web is required.
Image by Murray Thompson, userallusion.com
There is a lack of empirical evidence in the existing accessibility web guidelines regarding specifications for information architecture. How content is arranged in an interface matters greatly. It is easier for sighted users to figure out the incorrect positioning of a CTA(Call-to-action) button compared to a visually impaired user. When using a screen reader, the information that is read out loud depends on how the content is displayed horizontally, and any mistake caused in placing the content can cause major confusion for the user who is trying to access the website. For example, a brand selling facial serums might add their ‘add to cart’ button at the end of the page instead of the beginning, which would result in the user getting confused with all the other information in between.