[Irl-dean] Accessibility in the future

[Simius Puer]

Hi Mark

Globalisation of accessibility policy - that is one weighty subject!

I have a simple counter-argument that don't nullify the need to discuss the
topic but does throw it into a different light.

One problem is that good old basic economics seems to be ignored in a world
with an ever increasing eye on "the margin".  Take example from Mr Carey's
article:

First, that the greater the quantity of information, the lower its cost of
> production; and second, that the lower the cost of production, the
> greater is the additional percentage cost of making it accessible.
>

...so okay, *economies of scale* have been applied here, but what about
simple *cost-benefit-analysis*?  The accountants (apologies to any
accountants out there) only have an eye on the costs, ignoring the sometimes
less tangible benefits to the business.  Cost savings [through investment,
not down-sizing], market positioning and potential market-reach have all
been eroded from much of today's business planning.

Accessibility is an investment, one that brings long-term cost savings,
provides a good ethical service, and avoids potential legal action.  Could
this be the basis for a business case?  Selling accessibility in terms of
financial, ethical and legal benefits sure beats waiting for the global
community to adopt and enforce legislation.  Doesn't it?

These days "green" is a label everyone is trying to stick on their products
and manufacturers are clambering over each other to be seen as the most
"green".  If "green" and "fair trade" etc have both become household terms
then lets add "accessibility" to the list of ethical trading practices.
Businesses respond to market demands/perceptions and being an ethical trader
is becoming ever more important in finding new customers and building
customer loyalty.

Hopefully commitment from suppliers and market pressure from consumers will
do the job that global enforcement can only dream of.


*_____________________
Andrew Hart
Simius Web Ltd

tel: +353 (0)91 395 586
mob: +353 (0)871 264 728

http://www.simiusweb.ie

*
2008/5/27 Mark Magennis <Mark.magennis at ncbi.ie>:

> Here's an interesting opinion piece taken from e-access bulletin, a
> free monthly email newsletter (www.headstar.com/eab). It's quite a
> narrow perspective but a good seed for an argument I think, so let's
> all pitch in. Who wants to go first? Barry? ;-)
>
> Mark
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