Promoting ethical business

The Usability & Accessibility Working Group (UA-WG) launched its new website today, http://www.accessibilityprofessionals.org. Formed in October 2003, the UA-WG promotes ethical practice for usability and accessibility within the digital industry. The group, co-founded by the British Web Design and Marketing Association (BWDMA) and Nomensa has established a number of key initiatives to deliver accessibility excellence within the UK.

The website was a collaborative effort and aims to conform to the highest accessibility standards, as set down by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines from the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).

Léonie Watson, head of accessibility at Nomensa, is Chairman for the UA-WG. Miss Watson was a creative designer and programmer who went from 20:20 vision to absolute blindness.

She says:

I am very encouraged by the commitment of people that obviously have a real passion for these issues. We already have some interesting initiatives to consider that could make a significant difference.

Currently, the UA-WG is implementing their first initiative which is focused on developing the first ever accessibility accreditation scheme for suppliers of web design services. The accreditation will enable the digital industry to identify qualified suppliers and outline essential legal requirements for all organisations on the web.

About the UA-WG

Aiming to devise practical initiatives to remedy social exclusion from the Internet, the UA-WG has attracted scientists, academics, and industry professionals. The basic goals of the group are to raise awareness of problems and issues, promote best practice accessibility and usability and endorse the Accessibility Accreditation Scheme.

About Nomensa

Established in 2001, Nomensa is the digital agency which specialises in perfecting online user experience.  It combines usability, accessibility and strong web development skills to help public and private sector clients develop online strategies, be more inclusive and accountable.

Nomensa has a research based methodology that put people at the centre of its activities.  Everything it does focuses on understanding the experience people have when using technology.

Nomensa works with FTSE 250 companies, Central Government Departments, Local Authorities and Councils, and leading Universities, as well as several other organisations in the finance, IT and charity sectors.

For further enquiries contact:

Caroline Risk
Marketing Executive
T: 0117 929 7333
E: info@nomensa.com