8. Accessibility of Sketches

It is widely accepted in human-computer interaction (HCI) that usability lies in our interaction with a product, service, and environment, measured by observing performance, satisfaction, and acceptability. To this end, there is an overlap between usability and accessibility. Accessibility designates that digital products, services, and environments we create are perceivable, understandable, operable, robust, and encompass the range of human diversity, i.e. usable for all. This chapter aims to provide insight and put forward concrete techniques to improve the accessibility of your sketches. We cover the accessibility of sketches in HCI and beyond, with descriptions of best practice and examples, e.g. the use of screen readers and the need for text alternatives (alt text), and how such measures also support search engine optimisation. We also introduce novel ways of making sketching accessible, such as narrative alt text. This chapter helps you understand that accessible sketches are essential, identify different types of disabilities and the actions you can take to make your sketches accessible to people with specific disabilities, and practice making your sketches accessible using sketches you have created previously.