Let's talk accessibility (or "A11y" for short, because who doesn't love a good numeronym?). Perhaps you're looking to beef up your resume and show recruiters that you're not just another pretty face in the design world. Or maybe you're working on a design system and want your components to be WCAG AAA compliant (spoiler alert: it's tough, so if you can do it, you deserve a cookie... a very accessible cookie).
There are three major standards out there - ADA, WCAG, and Section 508. We're going to ghost Section 508 because it's for Federal agencies - so if that's your jam, beat it and Google that somewhere else. As a product or UX designer, which should you flaunt on your resume: ADA or WCAG?
Before we dive into this accessibility adventure, here's the TL;DR for 95% of situations - use WCAG. Don't you love it when articles give you answers upfront instead of making you read a novel? And no, I'm not a WCAG-sponsored lobbyist (is that even a thing?).
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)
What's the Deal with ADA?
ADA is a civil rights law passed in the 90s that made sure we considered all types of Americans in our businesses and processes. You've probably seen its handiwork - those ramps next to stairs that make you think, "Huh, that's handy for both wheelchairs and my lazy self."
Pros for Designers:
- Legal Street Cred: Businesses can be sued for non-compliance. There were 4,605 lawsuits in 2023 alone (UsableNet, 2023). Nothing says "hire me" like "I can help you avoid lawsuits."
- More Than Just Pixels: ADA applies to more than just web and apps. It's like the Swiss Army knife of accessibility standards.
Cons for Designers:
- Vague on Digital: ADA is about as specific with web and app compliance as your aunt's Facebook posts are about her vacation.
- Stars and Stripes Only: ADA is as American as apple pie, so it won't fly if you're elsewhere in the world.
Official Documentation:
ADA Web Guidance (Warning: May cause drowsiness. Do not read while operating heavy machinery.)
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
WCAG: The New Kid on the Block
WCAG showed up almost 20 years after ADA. It's not explicitly law, but more like a really good suggestion - unless you work for a government department where there are explicit WCAG standards that have to be met.
Pros for Designers:
- Always Fresh: WCAG gets updated more often than your phone's operating system, minus the annoying notifications.
- Deep Dive: The documentation is so comprehensive, it could probably explain the meaning of life (in an accessible manner, of course).
- Worldwide Superstar: WCAG is like the Beyoncé of accessibility standards - recognized and adored globally.
Cons for Designers:
- Digital Diva: WCAG is all about that digital life. If you're designing physical spaces, you're on your own, buddy.
- Nerd Alert: Non-techies and non-legalees might give you a blank stare when you mention WCAG, unlike the knowing nods you get with ADA.
- Jack of All Trades: It's not as platform-specific as native guidelines. Think of it as the "one-size-fits-most" t-shirt of accessibility.
Latest Documentation:
WCAG 3.0 Draft (Grab a coffee, it's a long one)
Practical Applications in Design
When working with WCAG, you'll become best friends with tools like WebAim's Contrast Checker. It's like a spell-checker, but for making sure your design doesn't accidentally exclude people.
Which to Choose for Your Resume?
The choice between mentioning WCAG and ADA in your resume depends on your target role and industry:
- WCAG is a guideline to learn, explore, and keep up with while ADA is more of a legal arena that helps to show you have some experience navigating. Choose accordingly.
- For most design roles, especially those involving digital products, WCAG is the stronger choice.
- If you're targeting public sector roles or positions involving physical space design, including both WCAG and ADA knowledge can be beneficial.
- For roles working on design systems or in highly regulated industries (e.g., healthcare, government), emphasizing your accessibility expertise is particularly valuable.
Key Takeaways (For Those Who Scrolled to the Bottom)
- WCAG is generally more relevant for digital designers.
- ADA knowledge is valuable, especially for U.S.-based roles or those involving physical accessibility.
- Staying updated with accessibility standards demonstrates a commitment to inclusive design.
- Practical application of these guidelines in your work will set you apart in the job market.
Remember, accessibility isn't just about compliance—it's about creating better experiences for all users. By incorporating these skills into your repertoire, you're not only enhancing your resume but also contributing to a more inclusive digital world.
