Development of Web-based Documents
At the beginning of any web project, global-level decisions have to be made. You must be aware of the purpose of your project, the needs of your audience, and the type of material that would best fit their needs. This is the stage of work when Universal Design is most easily implemented because if you plan to use it from the beginning, there is less to go back and fix.
Purpose
You should have some idea of the purpose of your web document before the project starts simply because without a purpose, there would be no need for the document. Knowing the purpose behind your document will allow you to make several important design decisions. Here are some Universal Design questions to keep in mind when determining the purpose of your document:
- What is the simplest way to deliver this material online?
- How can I provide an inclusive experience for everyone who will use this material?
- What is the clearest method to communicate the purpose of this document?
Audience Needs
Using Universal Design principles in the development of your web content helps keep the material audience and user-driven. Since designing universally helps reach a wider, more diverse audience, keep the following questions in mind when looking at audience needs:
- What is the target audience for this material?
- What is the best way to design and present materials to reach that audience?
- How can the design of this web site encourage wide and equitable use for all users, no matter their age, level of ability, knowledge of the language, or familiarity with the topic?
Methods
As you analyze the purpose of your content and the unique needs of your audience, it may become clear what materials are best suited to deliver your content. Whether you choose to use a traditional web site, a wiki, or a blog, the methods you use to communicate your content should be user-driven. Since the style of a Web site (blog, wiki, etc.) can give users a hint about how to interact with your material, also consider the following questions when deciding on how to deliver your material:
- What is the best type of web presence to have to effectively communicate this content?
- How can I use certain web tools to help users easily interact with this material?
- Will the style of web presence that best suits the target audience shun or cut off connections with possible minority audiences?