BWDMA launches Usability and Accessibility Working Group.

London, September 17 2003 - When the British Web Design and Marketing Association (BWDMA) issued a call for people in the digital economy to join a working group for accessibility and usability, a Nomensa accessibility consultant accepted the invitation to chair the new initiative.

The working group aims to devise practical application initiatives to make serious and worthwhile contributions to the cause of remedying social exclusion from the internet. Scientists, academics, and industry professionals have joined the working group but according to Jodie White (BWDMA Relationship Manager) it is the participation of people with disabilities that make the composition unusual.

"Of course we welcome, other trade bodies, advocacy groups and industry professionals, but we are really pleased to have contributing professionals that are both disabled and work in the digital sector. It is the first time that such a range of people have come together and this will give the group great insight to the diversity of requirements people with disabilities have." say White.

The working group is now planning meetings in London, Bristol and Manchester.

Acting Chair for the working group, Nomensa consultant and BWDMA member Léonie Watson, was a creative designer and programmer who went from 20:20 vision to absolute blindness. She now works assisting local government, corporates and academic organisations. According to Watson, the working group's industry-wide composition gives it gravitas.

"Since the evolution of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) usability and accessibility have become hot issues and inevitably there are those that 'jump on the bandwagon'. I am so very encouraged however, by the commitment of people that obviously have a real passion for usability and accessibility. We already have some very interesting initiatives to consider that could make a significant difference."

Léonie Watson

The first meeting is due to be held shortly and Nomensa will report on activities as they happen.

For more information, visit the BWDMA web site or contact Léonie Watson, UA-WG Chair.