Completion Date

Summer 8-8-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Program or Discipline Name

Learning Technologies and Media Systems

First Advisor

Tedd Wheeler

Abstract

Accessibility was a fundamental aspect of enhancing user experience (UX) across digital platforms, ensuring equitable access to information and services for a diverse range of users, including individuals with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. As digital products became increasingly central to education, commerce, and communication, the need for inclusive design grew. This study explored the intersection of accessibility and UX, with a specific focus on how accessibility-driven design improved usability, user satisfaction, engagement, and the overall quality of digital interactions. Grounded in Agile project management principles, the research examined how early integration of accessibility into the software development lifecycle supported iterative improvements, fostered user empathy, and aligned with the core values of human-centered design. Using a qualitative research approach based on phenomenology, data was collected through semi-structured interviews professionals from UX, project management, and software development fields. The study analyzed recurring themes and challenges related to accessibility implementation, identified effective strategies, and documented the lived experiences of those advocating for inclusive practices within Agile teams. A systematic review of existing literature complemented the primary data, enabling a robust understanding of current standards, tools, and organizational dynamics. Findings indicated that when accessibility was embedded from the initial planning stages, it significantly enhanced usability for all users, not just those with disabilities. Moreover, accessibility efforts contributed to better product performance, improved compliance with legal standards (e.g., WCAG), and alignment with ethical practices in technology development. However, challenges such as time constraints, lack of training, insufficient leadership support, and post-deployment evaluation gaps often hindered accessibility integration. This study contributed to the growing body of knowledge on inclusive digital design and offered actionable insights for designers, developers, and project managers committed to creating more accessible and user-friendly digital environments.

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