User Vision, one of Europe’s leading independent user experience consultancies, has completed a long-term contract worth over £100,000 to develop online accessibility guidelines and assess the accessibility of Abu Dhabi government websites.
Part of the Abu Dhabi Government Modernisation Initiative, this innovative project is the first of its kind in the region and underlines the government’s active interest in web accessibility and improving the accessibility of e-government services to people with special needs.
Managing Director and founder of User Vision Chris Rourke says: “We are delighted to have this opportunity to work with the Abu Dhabi Government on such a prestigious and innovative project. The Abu Dhabi government is committed to improving accessibility for all its citizens, including those with disabilities throughout the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and it is a privilege to be part of such an important initiative.”
User Vision delivered the project over six phases including researching best practice international guidelines, reviewing local guidelines and the current landscape of accessibility provision online in the UAE. They then developed the accessibility guidelines and supporting materials in order to evaluate and audit a representative set of Abu Dhabi government sites. To help ensure accessible future e-government website development, User Vision will also qualify potential digital suppliers to the Abu Dhabi government.
User Vision will work with local partners Flip Media in Dubai to assess websites in both the English and Arabic versions. The project will raise awareness of best practice for web accessibility within the Abu Dhabi Government departments and within the community so that the widest possible audience has access to e-government services and information.
User Vision has been active in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for five years, working with leaders in the travel, tourism and e-commerce sectors, including Emirates Airline and the Jumeirah Group. They have also performed regional projects for financial services firms and government entities in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
Over the years the agency has accumulated extensive experience providing usability and accessibility services within the Middle East and has a deep understanding of the cultural complexities and nuances needed to deliver user-centred design research and analysis.
User Vision recently opened a satellite office in Dubai following a period of sustained growth and strong demand from the local market for the usability and accessibility of websites, software, advertising and digital channels.
For more information contact: Sarah Lee.
