On Tuesday at the Inspiration Hub Meryl Evans,CEO of meryl.net, that left attendees with a fresh perspective on creating inclusive events. The takeaway was clear: accessibility isn't just about accommodating disabilities—it's about enhancing experiences for everyone.
The curb-cut effect: How accessibility benefits all
Think about a common curb cut, those sloped ramps at street corners. Originally designed for wheelchair users, they now benefit parents with strollers, travelers with rolling luggage, and delivery workers with hand trucks. This "curb-cut effect" illustrates how accessibility features often have widespread benefits beyond their intended audience. In the events world, captions are a prime example. While crucial for deaf and hard-of-hearing attendees, they've become popular with a much broader audience. Many use captions when watching videos in noisy environments or to better comprehend complex content.
Practical steps for more accessible events
Ask, don't assume: Every person's needs are unique. Make it standard practice to ask attendees about accessibility requirements, just as you would dietary restrictions.
Offer communication options: Provide multiple ways for attendees to engage, such as text-based alternatives to phone calls.
Review your processes: When planning event logistics, ask yourself: "Who might this unintentionally exclude?" For instance, is your check-in counter accessible to wheelchair users?
Promote your accessibility features: Don't be shy about highlighting the accommodations you offer. Many attendees may not expect them and will be pleasantly surprised.
The business case for accessibility
Investing in accessibility isn't just the right thing to do—it makes business sense. Accessible events are more welcoming, leading to higher attendance, positive word-of-mouth, and increased loyalty from both attendees and speakers. Moreover, many accessibility solutions are surprisingly affordable. Often, the most impactful changes cost less than $300 to implement.
Progress over perfection
The key message from the session was clear: don't let perfection be the enemy of progress. Start with small steps, make accessibility a habit, and build from there. As one speaker noted, "Accessibility isn't complicated. It's just a matter of being the program manager of a thing." By prioritizing accessibility, event professionals can create more inclusive, engaging experiences that truly connect with their entire community. It's not just about accommodating differences—it's about embracing them to create richer, more vibrant events for all.
