Improving Accessibility in Event Registration UX

How Do We Ensure Every Participant's Journey Starts on the Right Note? 🎶 We often focus on the main event experience, but how many of us have paused to consider the very first touchpoint - the registration process? A truly inclusive event starts the moment someone considers attending. Here are a few strategies to ensure our registration processes pave the way for comprehensive inclusivity: 1. Accessible Platforms: Ensure your registration website/platform is ADA compliant and mobile-friendly, catering to diverse digital proficiencies. 2. Diverse Imagery: Use graphics and visuals that reflect a myriad of ethnicities, abilities, genders, and ages, signaling a welcoming environment for everyone. 3. Clear Communication: Offer language options or, at the very least, ensure clarity in your information. Avoid jargon. 4. Payment Flexibility: Consider various payment methods, possible installments, or even sponsorship options for those needing financial assistance. 5. Inclusive Accommodations Check: No, not sleeping rooms, but incorporate an option where attendees can specify any special requirements or accommodations they might need, be it related to physical accessibility, dietary needs, visual, hearing, or otherwise. The way we welcome our participants sets the tone for the entire event. Let's ensure we're rolling out the red carpet for everyone, right from the start! ✨ How do you prioritize inclusivity during your event registration? Share your strategies or experiences below, and let's pave the way for even more inclusive beginnings! #FirstImpressionsMatter #InclusiveEventRegistration 🌟🤝

Inclusive form design isn’t a luxury, it's a civil right. Most registration processes are forms based. Without accessible forms, people who use assistive technology can't get through the door. When we talk about submit buttons, the choice to make them active all the time isn’t about “just making things easier” — it’s about removing real accessibility barriers. An active submit button means users who rely on screen readers or keyboard navigation can always finish what they started. But most designers/UX folks talk about submit vs in-line field validation as an "or." I propose we look at them as an "and." Just like the little girl in the meme says, "why not both?" If you have an active submit button and ALSO add in-line validation, which flags issues as they arise, you are creating an experience that sets the standard for a best practice. You aren't just following the guidelines to achieve compliance, you are making sure that people with disabilities have the best chance of becoming customers as anyone else. Real-time feedback reduces stress for those who may struggle to go back and forth in a form, helping everyone complete it without hassle. Active submit combined with user-friendly error message means users don't get stuck looking through a long form trying to figure out which required field they missed. Companies like #Amazon have it right — they combine both. When we prioritize both an always-active button and in-line validation, we’re making digital spaces accessible, user-centered, and, most importantly, equitable. Alt: first image is a female child seated in an office with the caption: "Submit Button always active" on the left side and "in-line field validation" on the right side. Beneath it is a question: "why don't we have both? " second image shows group of persons lifting the female child up in celebration. #AccessibilityMemeMonday #InclusiveDesign #AccessibleForms #DigitalEquity #Disability #Inclusion #UserCenteredAccessibility https://lnkd.in/ecX_YG93

Want an effective, low-cost way to make your events more accessible? Try offering an Accessibility Pre-Event Checklist! 🌟 This checklist gives all attendees a heads-up on essential accessibility details, helping everyone feel welcome and prepared. Think: ✅ Accessible transportation options and venue entrances ✅ Steps for requesting accommodations ✅ Available assistive technologies (like captioning or ALDs) ✅ Information on accessible restrooms, quiet zones, and emergency procedures An accessibility checklist helps attendees feel confident they’ll have the support they need, reducing anxiety about navigating a new space or arranging accommodations. Plus, a pre-event checklist shows your commitment to inclusion right from the start. ___________________ Here's a streamlined sample of an Accessibility Pre-Event Checklist: "Welcome! To make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve put together a checklist to help you prepare and get the most out of Salesforce events. Here’s what to know: #Before You Arrive □ Accommodation Requests: If you need specific accommodations (e.g., ASL interpretation, reserved seating, mobility support), please contact our Accessibility Team at least two weeks in advance. □ Public transit routes and shuttle services with accessible features will be available on our event website. #Venue Accessibility □ Accessible Entrances: All main entrances, restrooms, and levels are accessible by wheelchair. □ Quiet Zones & Sensory Rooms: Designated quiet zones and sensory-friendly rooms are available for anyone needing a calm space. These areas are equipped with comfortable seating, low lighting, and noise reduction. #Event Technology □ Live Captions & Transcripts: AI-generated captions and real-time captions will be provided in all main sessions. Transcripts will be available in the event app. □ Event App Accessibility: Our event app is screen-reader compatible, and provides real-time updates for easier navigation. #During the Event □ Session Accessibility: Accessible seating, reserved spots for those with mobility devices, and ASL interpreters are available at key sessions. Check the app or schedule for more information. □ Meal & Break Options: Dietary accommodations are available at all meals. Attendees with food allergies or specific dietary needs can contact our team or visit the Disability Help Desk for more information." #AccessibleEvents #InclusionMatters #EventPlanning #DisabilityInclusion #Trailblazer