Conducting UX research that includes participants with a variety of disabilities is vital to building inclusive technology, but most prototypes used for testing are inaccessible. Rather than continuing to leave out feedback from disabled consumers, which ultimately leads to exclusive technology, researchers must get creative in their workarounds and be relentless in their efforts.

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Researchers conducting accessibility research should leverage all available tools to create and replicate testing environments. It is important to include disabled participants in prototype research to incorporate key considerations and supplement accessibility guidelines with real-world feedback. Ways to conduct prototype research while working around inaccessible prototypes include using a survey, conducting co-design sessions, testing with similar systems, building rapid prototypes, and using the Wizard of Oz method.

Conducting Accessibility Research In An Inaccessible Ecosystem — Smashing Magazine

Accessibility-focused Research In All Phases

Inaccessible Technology Impedes Accessibility Research