%% Last Updated: - [[2021-02-13]] %% The difference between accessibility and usability is slight, and I'm not convinced it matters too much, as both are important. However, here's how I distinguish the two. ## [[Accessibility Testing|Accessibility]] Accessibility has to do with how people _access_ or navigate and consume your content or application. It typically deals with disabilities or impairments, and particularly the tools commonly used to assist them. For instance, having alt text for photos gives sight-impaired people an idea of what the photo communicate through a screen reader that reads the alt text. Accessibility testing also tends to involve the more technical aspects of an application, such as entirely new features that allow some people to use it where otherwise they might not be able to. ## [[Usability Testing|Usability]] Usability has more to do with best practices for the interface of an application. Unlike accessibility, it is not so much concerned with features that add entirely _new_ functionality; it is more involved in _how_ the information is presented for everyone. Many accessibility features are used only by those who need them (such as closed captions), but usability features typically seek to enhance the experience for all users (such as changing text colors to have better contrast). ## References - https://blog.usablenet.com/accessibility-vs-usability-what-is-the-difference-to-the-disability-community