Inclusion by Design: Creating Digital Experiences for Different Needs

An experience cannot be called inclusive simply because it is available to everyone. People also need a practical, comfortable way to take part.

For immersive and interactive projects, accessibility decisions belong at the beginning. They influence the content, equipment, environment and support available throughout the experience.

Offer More Than One Way to Participate

A headset may be suitable for some users and unsuitable for others.

Where the project allows, institutions can provide alternatives such as a screen-based version, a narrated demonstration, a seated activity or a facilitated group experience.

The important question is whether people can access the purpose of the activity, even when they use different formats.

Give Users Clear Choices

Unfamiliar technology can create uncertainty. A simple introduction can explain what will happen, what the user is expected to do and how to stop.

Adjustable sound, readable text, clear instructions and manageable visual detail should be considered during design and testing.

For activities involving children or People of Determination, families and relevant professionals can help identify individual participation needs. Assumptions based only on a diagnosis or age group are not enough.

Review the Physical Setting

The surrounding space is part of the experience.

Teams should consider seating, movement requirements, equipment fit, access routes, supervision and the handling of shared devices. Staff need to understand their role before welcoming participants.

A well-designed digital activity can still become difficult to access if the physical setup is unsuitable.

Listen to People Who Use the Experience

Feedback should include people with different communication, sensory and mobility needs.

Observation can also reveal barriers that a questionnaire misses: instructions that need repeating, controls that are difficult to reach or moments when someone needs additional support.

At Bawabt AlMaarifa, inclusion is a practical consideration across rehabilitation, education and culture. We encourage institutions to plan for different ways of participating and to refine experiences through feedback from the people they are intended to serve.