Accessibility in design is important because everyone should have equal access to use the vast educational, community, job, and entertainment opportunities available through the internet.

In this presentation, Andrew Patterson—software developer for Emfluence—will share his knowledge and expertise on accessibility design and best practices. In his presentation Andrew will cover:

1. accessibility standards and what they mean
2. when to start planning for accessibility
3. recent changes in web technology and its impact on accessibility
4. accessibility scanning software (what it can do and what it can't)
5. what it means to be legally blind and how it changes your view of the world
6. accessible software and hardware and the leaders in the field
7. the cost of accessibility

The session will be followed by a 15 minute Q&A.

Andrew has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field of accessibility design. He worked for the Kansas Instructional Resource Center for the Blind for seventeen years where he was responsible for providing accessible materials to students across the state. For five of those years he worked in IT at the school helping staff and students set up accessible software and devices. He also worked at the Johnson County Library on the web team where he focused on ensuring the county's various digital properties complied with accessibility standards.

Introductions & Networking: 12-12.10pm

Presentation: 12.10-12.45pm

Q&A: 12.45-1pm

Participants will be sent a Zoom link 1 hour before the presentation begins.