We know that a Web site's usability is important in determining its effectiveness for the over 50s. All age groups benefit from good usability but it is more important for older people. Jakob Nielsen’s explanation of usability is as good as they come.
There is a close connection between usability and accessibility and hence the decision made by the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) on the 22nd August is very important. The RNIB has confirmed that it has taken legal action against two Web sites that have failed to comply with web accessibility laws.
The law dates back to October 1999 and states that Web sites must ensure that individuals with disabilities are catered for, much in the same way as restaurants and public transport need to provide universal access.
The RNIB said it is unable to reveal details about the two organisations due to confidentiality clauses they have signed to keep the matter private.
If the RNIB is successful in this legal action it will raise the profile of web accessibility and usability which is a fantastic thing. The two organisations are bound to be household names - any idea who they are?
