Christchurch Branch Event: Online Accessibility: Making the web accessible to everyone

With over 20 per cent of New Zealanders living with a disability, and a significant number of ageing consumers in our population, it is crucial that people can easily access online information — whether it is a website, online help, or the humble PDF file.

It has been said that 'Google is the biggest blind user of the web'. An accessible website is likely to be highly ranked in Google and other search engines, helping more people find you online.

In this presentation Kevin Prince will cover the "what and why of accessibility". Kevin will discuss the wider aspects of accessible design (covering blindness, cognitive and physical impairment as well as Deafness). We'll look at the standards that apply to the web in NZ, some tools to assist you in meeting them, and some assistive technology that relies on good design to function at its best.

If time allows Kevin will be seeking volunteers to experience blind navigation of a site – learn what it’s really like to surf without sight!

There will be time for questions and Kevin is happy to have a quick look at your own site or app if you're brave enough.

Where and when

Streamliners, 4 Acton Street, Christchurch Central map

Tuesday 11 July. 5:30 pm networking. Meeting from 6:00 pm until 7:00 pm.

Cost

The cost includes nibbles and drinks.

People who register via the website:

  • Members $11.50 incl GST.
  • Non-members $17.25 incl GST
  • Student members free of charge.

People who pay at the door:

  • Members 15.00 incl GST
  • Non-members $20.00 incl GST
  • Student members free of charge.

Note: Members = members of TechCommNZ and affiliated organisations: NZATD, TWIA, PRINZ

About the speaker

Kevin Prince, with Kafka statue

Kevin is originally from England but now considers himself a "fully certified Kiwi”*. He has worked in and around ICT all his career, spending 15 years the Royal Corps of Signals before moving into digital broadcasting. During this time he worked in places as far apart as Hong Kong, South Georgia, Moscow, Rio, and Miami.

In 2006 Kevin emigrated to New Zealand. He has worked in accessibility with the Blind Foundation and as an independent consultant, and he uses those skills daily as a web tester at Christchurch City Council.

Outside work Kevin is a Board member of Deafblind Association NZ and contributes to the qualification design committee of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) and the NZ Govt Web Advisory Panel.

Kevin has a basic grasp of NZ Sign but admits that Kiwi English still defeats him from time to time.

*As in, I have a certificate.

Event Registration