#USA #New York #accessiBe #web accessibility #accessLabs

accessiBe Forms Advisory Board and Testing Hub for Web Accessibility

In a notable push towards inclusivity and innovation, accessiBe, a leader in the web accessibility market, has announced the formation of a new community advisory board and the launch of accessLabs. This initiative coincides with Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), emphasizing the company’s commitment to improving web accessibility for users with disabilities.

The Role of the Advisory Board

The newly appointed advisory board comprises prominent figures from disability rights advocacy and community leaders who are directly impacting the web accessibility landscape. Leading this board is Josh Basile, who not only serves as accessiBe's Community Relations Manager but also embodies the advocacy spirit as a disability rights lawyer and C4-5 quadriplegic.

Basile highlighted the key objective of this board: “When disability communities help lead the way, the future of accessibility becomes not only more innovative but genuinely inclusive.” The board includes notable members like Stephane Leblois, associated with The Valuable 500, and Chandra Smith, a Section 508 tester and former Ms. Wheelchair USA 2024. Together, these individuals will ensure that the innovations developed by accessiBe are grounded in the lived experiences of those affected by disability.

AccessLabs: A Testing Hub for Users of Assistive Technologies

In addition to the advisory board, accessiBe unveiled accessLabs, a testing group comprising developers with disabilities. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the company’s products serve effectively users of various assistive technologies, including screen readers and braille displays. AccessLabs plays a crucial role in integrating real-world feedback into the product development cycle, ensuring that the tools created meet the practical needs of those they are designed for.

The shift towards community-driven innovation is reflected in accessiBe’s recent initiatives, which underscore the company's commitment to integrating the insights and feedback of everyday users into their web accessibility solutions.

Build a Culture of Accessibility

With an eye towards the future, accessiBe is not stopping at advisory boards and testing hubs. The company has appointed Robert Lopez as CEO, marking a new era of leadership and vision as accessiBe moves forward with its mission. The integration of tailored solutions powered by advanced AI technology alongside human expertise aims to create a customizable web accessibility experience. “Our mission is to advance true digital inclusivity by empowering our customers to adapt our solutions to their unique needs,” said Lopez.

Commitment to Continued Development

In recent months, accessiBe has demonstrated its commitment to accessibility through various impactful initiatives, including the rollout of accessFlow 2.0. This developer platform allows businesses to manage their website's accessibility directly at the source-code level. Enhancements to the proprietary engine are also in place to ensure compliance with accessibility regulations while improving overall website performance.

Quarterly Meetings for Continuous Improvement

The advisory board will convene quarterly, providing hands-on product testing, feedback sessions, and discussions aimed at refining accessibility products. This ongoing collaboration seeks to cultivate an inclusive web environment that allows everyone, regardless of their abilities, to participate fully in the digital world.

For more information on accessiBe and their initiatives for Global Accessibility Awareness Day, please visit their official website.

About accessiBe

AccessiBe is at the forefront of providing AI-powered web accessibility solutions. They help businesses create inclusive digital experiences by tailoring modifications to suit a wide range of user accessibility needs, ensuring compliance with necessary regulations intertwined with community feedback and requirements.