enGAge Magazine Jan 2024

J a n The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings.

- Dave Weinbaum

Featuring

Dr. Dilip Nath AVP & Deputy CIO SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

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Table Of Content Using Data to Drive a Caring and Connected Healthcare Experience

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By Dr. Dilip Nath

Revolutionizing Healthcare Communication through ZIF’s Natural Language Processing Approach

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By Maryada Kashyap and Nithesh Kumar

Staying Safe While Using ChatGPT

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By Kannan Srinivasan

Accessibility in UX

By Team UNBOX

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Editor’s Note Team enGAge wishes everyone a Happy New Year!

In the year gone by, artificial intelligence (AI) took center stage on popular culture. From internet memes to pivotal Senate hearings, AI's presence was ubiquitous, largely fueled by the advancements in large language models like ChatGPT. These models, trained on vast collections of text, became a catalyst for much excitement.

Comparable to the collective dance of water molecules forming waves or flocking birds gliding as one, large language models exhibited unexpected prowess after reaching critical mass. Astonishingly, they solved certain math problems, showcasing abilities beyond smaller counterparts.

Soumika Das

The surge in interest extended to image-generating tools like DALL·E 2, which gained immense popularity. By inputting a written prompt, these tools can create intricate art pieces. This innovation stemmed from years of research into diffusion models, inspired by concepts in physics that untangle formless noise into clear, sharp images.

However, this AI excitement also raised valid concerns. Large language models often produce falsehoods, perpetuate societal biases, and struggle with fundamental aspects of human language. Additionally, the inner workings of these models remain opaque, though efforts are underway to unravel it.

Artificial neural networks, the backbone of modern AI systems, face criticism for their resource-intensive nature and opacity. Some researchers advocate for a different approach: hyperdimensional computing. Unlike artificial neurons, this method represents concepts using multifaceted hyperdimensional vectors, offering versatility and better error-handling abilities. It enables researchers to directly engage with the model's reasoning, enhancing comprehension of its operations.

Although hyperdimensional computing is nascent, its potential to address current AI limitations is promising.

As it undergoes more rigorous testing, this alternative approach might revolutionize the future landscape of artificial intelligence. The evolution of AI in 2023 showcased both remarkable advancements and challenges, paving the way for potential paradigm shifts in the field.

We have insightful articles in this edition.

Dr. Dilip Nath, AVP & Deputy CIO, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, has written, Using Data to Drive a Caring and Connected Healthcare Experience.

Maryada Kashyap and Nithesh Kumar, have written, Revolutionizing Healthcare Communication through ZIF’s Natural Language Processing Approach.

Kannan Srinivasan , has written, , Staying Safe While Using ChatGPT. Team UNBOX, has written, Accessibility in UX. Happy Reading!

enGAge Jan ‘24

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What’s New in Tech A color-based sensor to emulate skin's sensitivity

New method uses crowdsourced feedback to help train robots

Robotics researchers from EPFL's School of Engineering have developed a sensor that can perceive combinations of bending, stretching, compression, and temperature changes, all using a robust system that boils down to a simple concept: color. This is a step toward more autonomous soft robots and wearable technologies.

Researchers from MIT, Harvard University, and the University of Washington, have developed a new technique that enables an AI agent to be guided by data crowdsourced asynchronously from nonexpert human users as it learns to complete a task through reinforcement learning. The method trains the robot faster and better than other approaches.

AI chatbot shows potential as diagnostic partner Physician-investigators at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) compared a chatbot's probabilistic reasoning to that of human clinicians. The findings suggest that artificial intelligence could serve as useful clinical decision support tools for physicians.

Scientists use AI-generated images to map visual functions in the brain Researchers have demonstrated the use of AI-selected natural images and AI-generated synthetic images as neuroscientific tools for probing the visual processing areas of the brain.

The goal is to apply a data-driven approach to understand how vision is organized while potentially removing biases that may arise when looking at responses to a more limited set of researcher-selected images.

enGAge Jan ‘24

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One-Year Celebration

Ashley Furniture India Pvt Ltd and GS Lab | GAVS Thrive with Global Capability Center in Chennai

In a year-long partnership, Ashley Furniture India Pvt Ltd and GS Lab | GAVS have flourished with Ashley's Global Capability Center (GCC) in Chennai. This collaboration seamlessly merges digital transformation expertise with technological capabilities, delivering global solutions in Order Management, Logistics, Supply Chain, and more.

Ashley Furniture India Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC, brings over 75 years of industry leadership, a global network of home furnishing stores, and a robust e-commerce platform. The GCC continues to pioneer digital solutions for superior customer service and operational efficiency.

The 'Rivera' event recently celebrated a year of outstanding achievements, uniting the Ashley family to honor the team's dedication and leadership. With a dedicated team of 250 members, Ashley India has witnessed remarkable growth and success since the center's inception. The HR, Recruitment, Finance, Marketing and L&D teams from GS Lab | GAVS were appreciated and acknowledged for their contribution in this successful journey.

This partnership stands as a testament to a year of innovation and collaboration as Ashley's Global Capability Center in Chennai continues to thrive, promising ongoing progress and success.

“As we celebrate the milestone of the Ashley Global Capability Center’s one-year journey, it's awe-inspiring to reflect on the incredible transformation from ground zero to a thriving community of 250+ employees. enGAge Jan ‘24

This achievement stands as a testament to the collective dedication, passion, and hard work that each member of our team has poured into building something extraordinary. We extend our deepest gratitude to GS Lab | GAVS for their unwavering support and exceptional services which have been instrumental in our growth.

Their collaboration has been pivotal in navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with such rapid expansion,” said Ravi Nalway, Ashley Furniture India Pvt. Ltd. "We convey our sincere appreciation to GS Lab | GAVS for their steadfast assistance and superior services, which have been indispensable in our progression. Their partnership has been central in surmounting challenges and capitalizing on the advantages that come with such rapid expansion. Honoring the first anniversary of Ashley GCC's inception, it's remarkable to look back on our journey from humble beginnings to a dynamic ensemble of over 250 dedicated professionals.

This noteworthy accomplishment is evidence of the shared resolve, fervor, and tireless efforts each team member has contributed to cultivate something extraordinary,” said Matt Johnson, Ashley Furniture India Pvt. Ltd. Balaji Uppili, Chief Operating Officer, GS Lab | GAVS, said, “We are proud to be associated with Ashley Furniture to align with their roadmap for digital transformation and modernization along with business transformation by helping set up their GCC in India.”

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enGAge Jan ‘24

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Using Data to Drive a Caring and Connected Healthcare Experience In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, data-driven insights have proven instrumental in enhancing patient engagement, refining decision-making processes, and elevating the quality of care delivered. Real-world examples vividly illustrate the transformative impact of harnessing data in healthcare practices.

Improving Patient Engagement and Treatment Quality Consider the implementation of remote patient monitoring for chronic disease management.

Healthcare facilities introduced wearable monitoring devices for patients grappling with conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

These tools empowered patients to track their health indicators in real-time. Simultaneously, healthcare practitioners received this data via a centralized platform. Automatic alerts prompted timely interventions when irregular readings were detected. The result?

Heightened patient engagement, proactive healthcare responses, decreased hospital admissions, and enhanced disease management.

Another success story lies in integrating clinical decision support systems within emergency departments. These systems analyzed patient data from various sources, offering real-time suggestions for diagnosis and treatment.

Consequently, healthcare providers made swifter, more accurate decisions, ensuring personalized care and fostering increased confidence among practitioners.

enGAge Jan ‘24

Because the decision support system streamlines the decision-making process, assessing and treating patients in an emergency required less time. Increased diagnostic accuracy led in better patient outcomes. Patients received more personalized and effective care, and healthcare practitioners felt more confident in their decisions.

Communicating the Impact of AI and New Models to Patients Transparent communication regarding the integration of AI into healthcare is paramount to cultivate patient trust and secure informed consent. To achieve this, healthcare providers must present clear, jargon-free information through accessible mediums like brochures, online resources, and interactive sessions.

Interactive sessions allow direct patient engagement, featuring AI technology demonstrations and Q&A for understanding benefits and addressing concerns. Seeking patient feedback during AI development ensures diverse perspectives and alignment with patient values. Discussing AI during routine appointments to elucidate its role in personalized care. Transparency, informed consent, and addressing privacy concerns are crucial. Ongoing communication via newsletters and patient portals keeps patients informed about AI advancements and changes in care processes. Moreover, collaborating with patient advocacy groups extends information dissemination and addresses specific patient concerns.

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Ongoing communication, transparency, and responsiveness to patient feedback are crucial for building trust and ensuring comfort with AI integration in healthcare.

Patients as Contributors in the Data-Driven Healthcare Ecosystem Patients are pivotal contributors to the data-driven healthcare ecosystem, particularly through the use of connected devices.

Wearables and health monitoring tools enable individuals to actively participate in managing their health by generating real-time data on vital signs and activity levels. However, for health systems to effectively utilize this patient-generated data, it requires a combination of technological infrastructure and patient engagement strategies. The system must support secure and interoperable platforms to collect, store, and analyze diverse data sources. Additionally, health organizations need to foster a culture that encourages patients to share this data willingly. This involves transparent communication about the benefits of data sharing, addressing privacy concerns, and ensuring patients feel empowered in their role as active contributors to their healthcare. Collaborative efforts between healthcare providers, technology developers, and patients are essential to establish a framework where patient-generated data becomes a valuable resource for clinical teams, enhancing personalized care and overall health outcomes.

Ensuring Access and Equity Efforts to ensure equitable access to data-driven healthcare across socio-economic groups are underway. Several measures have been implemented or advocated for to address potential disparities:

Community outreach and education initiatives focus on raising awareness about the benefits of data-driven healthcare. These efforts target diverse socio-economic groups, providing information about how technology can improve health outcomes, preventive care, and overall wellness.

Measures are being taken to identify and mitigate biases in algorithms used in data-driven healthcare. This is critical to avoiding the perpetuation of present health disparities by ensuring that technology provides equitable and accurate information to all demographic groups.

The purpose of expanding telehealth services is to enhance access to healthcare for those living in distant or undeveloped areas.

Telehealth enables more equitable healthcare delivery by reducing barriers such as proximity to healthcare institutions and transportation.

Establishing solid privacy and security measures is critical for establishing patient confidence, especially in areas where worries about health data abuse are high. Potential participation barriers can be overcome by providing explicit information about data protection procedures.

In conclusion, the transformative power of data-driven insights in healthcare is undeniable. Embracing these advancements while prioritizing equitable access and transparent patient communication is pivotal in building a healthcare landscape that is caring, connected, and accessible to all.

This article is based on a recent panel discussion on “Using Data to Drive a Caring and Connected Healthcare Experience” organized by NODE.Health.

Programs aim to bridge the digital divide by ensuring that individuals across all socio-economic groups have access to digital technologies. This includes efforts to provide affordable internet access, promote digital literacy, and distribute connected devices to underserved communities.

enGAge Jan ‘24

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About the Author Dr. Dilip Nath is a distinguished leader in higher education and healthcare, known for his advocacy in voting and human rights. As a Harvard Kennedy School alumnus, he’s celebrated for his transformative leadership.

Dr. Dilip Nath

With 30+ years of strategic planning expertise, Dilip focuses on using technology to bridge equity gaps in healthcare and education.

At 16, Dr. Dilip Nath emigrated from Bangladesh to the US, becoming the first in his family to attend college. He’s lived in Queens for 33 years, earning the trust of his community as a dedicated leader and activist.

Recognizing the importance of knowledge in politics, he embarked on a self-learning journey about US government and principles of democracy. He earned degrees from the State University of New York, including an MBA and a DBA Dr. Dilip Nath is know for his visionary, team-oriented, and compassionate leadership.

He’s a respected advocate for various community issues, including healthcare, immigrant rights, and education. He founded NAVA and co-founded ABHF to further his endeavors.

enGAge Jan ‘24

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Revolutionizing Healthcare Communication through ZIF’s Natural Language Processing Approach Effective provider communication is crucial in the ever-changing healthcare environment for providing greater patient care and increased service reliability. One cannot overstate the importance of seamless communication, and our flagship solution, ZIF, uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) to take healthcare communication to new heights. In this article, we’ll look at how ZIF’s NLP capabilities were created with the goal of fostering information exchange and collaboration among healthcare practitioners.

Understanding the Challenges of Healthcare Communication In order to give patients with the finest treatment possible, healthcare providers must work together smoothly. The healthcare industry is also rife with communication issues that may prevent this collaboration. These challenges consist of: Information Amplification: Healthcare providers are inundated with vast amounts of patient data, research articles, and clinical guidelines. Keeping up with this information can be overwhelming and time-consuming.

Data Silos: Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are often stored in disparate systems that do not easily communicate with one another.

This fragmentation can lead to critical information being missed or delayed in reaching the relevant healthcare provider.

Cognitive Strain: Healthcare providers must process complex medical information quickly and accurately. enGAge Jan ‘24

Cognitive overload from sifting through data can lead to fatigue and errors in decision-making.

Standardization: Maintaining standardized terminologies and documentation practices across different healthcare institutions is a challenge, making data exchange and analysis difficult.

Increasing communication amongst healthcare Professionals The cornerstone of providing high-quality healthcare is effective communication. It is essential for assuring patient safety, precise diagnoses, and effective treatment results. The importance of effective communication among healthcare practitioners cannot be stressed in the dynamic and complicated world of healthcare, where information is plentiful and always changing. The improvement of interprofessional communication lies at the core of ZIF’s NLP-driven capabilities. The natural language interface of our AIOps platform allows for smooth communication between IT teams and clinical professionals. Here are some ways that ZIF is transforming healthcare communication: Efficient and systematic Incident Reporting: One of the key features of ZIF’s NLP-powered communication is its ability to streamline incident reporting. Healthcare providers can effortlessly report incidents, whether they involve system outages, performance glitches, or any other IT-related issue. With ZIF, reporting becomes as simple as expressing the problem in natural language.

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This streamlines the incident resolution process, reducing response times and minimizing disruptions to patient care. This ease of reporting ensures that incidents are promptly communicated and acted upon, minimizing disruptions to patient care.

Collaborative Problem-Solving: ZIF’s NLP capabilities foster collaborative problem-solving between IT teams and clinical staff. In the complex healthcare environment, issues can have far-reaching consequences. By providing a common platform where both technical and non-technical personnel can communicate and work together, ZIF bridges the gap and ensures that incidents are resolved efficiently.

This collaborative approach creates a culture of teamwork and ensures that the right expertise is engaged when needed. This fosters a culture of teamwork and efficiency.

Useful and Actionable Insights: ZIF’s NLP-driven insights are presented in a user-friendly manner, making it easy for healthcare providers to understand complex IT issues. This ensures that decisions are based on data-driven insights, leading to better outcomes for patients.

Complex IT jargon can be a barrier to effective communication, especially in healthcare where time is of the essence. ZIF simplifies the presentation of insights derived from its NLP-driven analysis. Healthcare providers receive actionable information in advance, and they can take action before facing issues and complexities. The decisions are based on clear, data-driven insights and follow AIOps best practices to deliver great data outcome, thus contributing to better patient outcomes.

Alerts and Notifications in Real-time: Healthcare providers can receive real-time alerts and notifications, allowing them to take immediate action when necessary. This ensures that critical incidents are addressed promptly. In healthcare, immediate action can be a matter of life and death. This feature is vital in healthcare settings where every second counts. NLP-powered decision support systems can provide healthcare providers with evidence-based recommendations and alerts, reducing cognitive load and enhancing decision-making accuracy. enGAge Jan ‘24

Chatbots and Virtual Assistants: NLP-driven chatbots and virtual assistants can answer common queries, solve issues, and provide resolution in real-time, freeing up healthcare IT team for more complex tasks. ZIF has 250+ bots which can resolve incidents by triggering the bots. Also, there is a self-service portal where end-users can fix the technical issues by themselves.

In a Nutshell ZIF is at the cutting edge of healthcare technology, guaranteeing that providers can give the greatest quality care to their patients and making sure that service reliability is not compromised. This is due to its capacity to find, monitor, analyze, and automate IT assets. Its NLP-driven features streamline incident reporting, promote group problem-solving, offer practical insights in easy-to-understand formats, and provide real-time notifications in an approachable way. ZIF equips medical professionals with the tools they need to communicate effectively, make intelligent decisions, and act quickly in critical circumstances. ZIF’s NLP-driven communication is the link that assures the delivery of high-quality, timely treatment to patients in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of healthcare. The future of healthcare communication has arrived, and it’s powered

by ZIF’s NLP-driven innovation.

https://www.gslab.com/downloads/ Remote-urine-analysis-for-cancer-patients-at-home-using-machine-learning.pdf

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About the Author

About the Author

Maryada Kashyap is part of the ZIF product marketing team as a lead consultant at GS Lab | GAVS. She has a passion for developing and executing strategic marketing plans that drive growth and engage target audiences, with a focus on digital technologies and delivering user-centric solutions. She always looks for innovative ways to drive business success through effective product marketing.

She believes that acquiring knowledge about emerging technological trends is instrumental in fostering a holistic view, thus facilitating preparedness for future changes.

Nithesh Kumar works as a Lead Consultant at GS Lab | GAVS and is a part of the ZIF Product Marketing team. He has a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of emerging technologies, which enables him to design and execute successful marketing campaigns that deliver results. He is a lifelong learner who is always seeking out new opportunities to expand his skill set and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Maryada Kashyap

enGAge Jan ‘24

Nithesh Kumar

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Staying Safe While Using ChatGPT While a significant number of organizations are contemplating the adoption of ChatGPT in various capacities, several others have already embraced it extensively for their day-to-day operational tasks. ChatGPT has quickly become the go-to chatbot to get answers to just about anything! However, with such tools comes a new set of challenges and risks that can affect businesses across industries.

GS Labs | GAVS conducted a webinar on the topic “ChatGPT: Navigating the Cyber Threat Landscape” with Mr. Abhinay Pandey, Cyber Threat Researcher, CloudSEK.

How Does ChatGPT Work?

Large Language Models (LLMs) are pivotal to artificial intelligence based solutions such as chatbots. In simpler terms, LLMs can be thought of as highly intelligent programs designed to comprehend human language and respond in a manner that closely mimics human communication. LLMs ingest and process extensive textual information to enhance their language comprehension and response capabilities. There are various approaches to training LLMs, including unsupervised learning and supervised learning.

Industry Applications of ChatGPT ChatGPT has several use cases in the healthcare sector, including inpatient triaging and virtual assistance. ChatGPT has recently been used to automatically generate summaries of patient interactions, facilitating the documentation of medical histories. t enGAge Jan ‘24

Another application is remote patient monitoring, where wearable devices like smartwatches and various sensors are employed to track a patient’s health remotely.

In the BFSI sector, ChatGPT is used in customer support chatbots, enhancing customer service by answering queries, assisting with transactions, and providing information about financial products and services. It is also used for risk assessment and fraud detection.

In non-BFSI sectors there are notable developments in several key areas, focusing on streamlining customer interactions and enhancing the customer experience. Some uses include customer onboarding, simplifying the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, and targeted marketing.

Risks Associated with ChatGPT The primary risk pertains to accuracy. ChatGPT may not consistently provide precise information. While it can offer responses, they might sometimes be vague or only partially accurate. This can lead to misunderstandings and potentially incorrect conclusions, making it crucial to exercise caution when relying on its output for critical tasks. There are also security risks. Users might inadvertently enter sensitive details during interactions with ChatGPT, raising concerns about the potential exposure of customer data. Another critical issue is the rising risk of phishing scams leading to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. The development of malware is an alarming prospect.

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Malicious actors could potentially exploit ChatGPT’s capabilities to create advanced malware. This could result in a proliferation of new, hard-to-detect threats, necessitating heightened vigilance in the cybersecurity landscape.

The landscape of threat vectors is ever-evolving, which also holds true for ChatGPT. Threat actors continually adapt and exploit new avenues, and it’s crucial to understand how these dynamics have changed. Some cases of how threat actors leverage ChatGPT and related technologies include user data compromise, bypass techniques, AI models to perform nefarious activities, and DDoS attacks.

Best Practices While Using NLPs While dealing with phishing attacks, organizations must take a multi-faceted approach that combines user training, advanced technology, and incident response preparedness. This approach will help contain the risk of increasingly sophisticated phishing attacks, even when leveraging technologies like ChatGPT. In software development, implementing a robust peer review process is an essential best practice – and will help in cases where ChatPT is used to get code snippets. Conducting code reviews before incorporating any code into the project is important. This process involves accepting code at face value and critically examining it. It helps ensure code relevance, identifies security risks, and contributes to a more efficient development process.

Here’s a breakdown of each component: Role: When engaging with ChatGPT, assign a specific role or persona. For instance, you might instruct it to assume the role of a backend software engineer. This helps set the context for the conversation and informs the model about its designated task.

Action: Clearly define the action you want ChatGPT to perform. In this example, you could instruct it to generate backend code that stores data or implements specific functionalities. Be precise in your request to ensure the model understands your requirements.

Steps: Provide explicit step-by-step instructions for ChatGPT to follow. For instance, you can instruct it to retrieve data from a particular source, combine it with another dataset, and then process the information using specific methods. This detailed guidance ensures that the model produces the desired outcome accurately.

Context: Offer relevant context to ChatGPT. Explain the technology stack you’re using, the database management system in place, your infrastructure, and any constraints or resources available for the task. This context enables the model to respond to your specific environment and requirements.

Example and Format: Finally, present the format with an example of the outcome you seek. If you’re looking for Python code, provide a sample of the code structure and functionality you expect. While this approach may appear meticulous initially, it significantly enhances the precision and efficiency of the technology’s response.

The RASCEF Strategy for ChatGPT The RASCEF strategy offers valuable insights into harnessing this technology optimally.

RASCEF, which stands for Role, Action, Steps, and Context, provides a structured approach to guide a user’s interactions with ChatGPT. Implementing the RASCEF strategy may require more effort initially but will result in a substantial improvement in the accuracy and relevance of ChatGPT’s responses. This structured approach ensures that users can harness the technology’s capabilities in a purposeful and efficient manner.

enGAge Jan ‘24

This blog is a high-level gist of the webinar. You can watch the entire webinar recording here. ht ps:/w w.yout be.com/watch?v=h6TbD_Mj8-4&t=2830s GS Lab | GAVS offers comprehensive cybersecurity services that cover the entire spectrum of cybersecurity requirements, including assessments, operations, and strategic planning, effectively addressing your most pressing cybersecurity challenges. To learn more, please visit https://www.gavstech.com/service/security-services/

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About the Author Kannan Srinivasan has over 23 years of experience in Cybersecurity and Delivery Management. He is a subject matter expert in the areas of Cloud security, infra security including SOC, Vulnerability Management, GRC, Identity and Access Management, Managed Security Services. He has led various security transformation engagements for large banks and financial clients.

Kannan Srinivasan

enGAge Jan ‘24t

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Accessibility in UX

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1.3 billion people, or 1 in 6 of us, experiences disability in some form. In other words, products designed without accessibility in mind automatically eliminate about 16% of potential users, which is a significant loss!

In the ever-evolving User Experience (UX) Design landscape, one principle stands resolute as a cornerstone: Accessibility. Accessibility in UX design is not just a buzzword or an afterthought; it is an essential and non-negotiable aspect that helps cater to a diverse audience and defines the ethical and inclusive nature of digital experiences. As per the latest WebAIM (Web Accessibility In Mind) annual report, the count of identified accessibility issues on a million homepage instances has decreased by 1.1% over the past year.

In part one of the blog series “Accessibility in UX Design,” we will focus on understanding the concept of accessibility and its role, challenges, and benefits in UX design.

Understanding Accessibility in UX Design Accessibility in UX design refers to creating digital products and interfaces that people of varying abilities and disabilities can use. This concept isn’t limited to accommodating physical disabilities; it encompasses cognitive, visual, auditory, and motor impairments.

enGAge Jan ‘24

The ultimate goal of accessibility is to ensure that all users, regardless of their limitations, can access and interact with digital content meaningfully and equitably.

Accessibility in UX design is exemplified through many practical implementations that seamlessly integrate to create an inclusive digital experience. Some common examples of accessibility include using alt text for images, video captions, keyboard-friendly interactions, readable fonts, voice and command recognition, text-to-speech conversion, responsive design layouts, well-designed forms with clear keyboard navigations, and color contrast considerations.

Role of Accessibility in UX Design Accessibility in UX design plays a multifaceted role that significantly influences the quality and inclusivity of digital experiences. It aligns with user-centered design principles, requiring designers to factor in the needs of users with disabilities. This approach results in experiences that cater to a broader spectrum of users, enhancing the overall effectiveness and thoughtfulness of the design.

Moreover, when designers focus on accessibility, they create a space for empathy and inclusion among designers. By immersing themselves in the perspectives of users with disabilities, designers develop a deeper understanding of diverse user experiences, paving the way for more considerate and accommodating designs.

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Integrating accessibility early in the design process helps designers streamline the development process and avoid the need to retrofit solutions later, which can be less efficient and effective.

These legal frameworks reflect a global commitment to inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of digital and physical accessibility to promote equality and empower individuals with disabilities to participate fully in society.

An essential aspect of accessibility in UX design involves continuous testing and iteration involving users with disabilities at various stages of development. By doing so, designers can identify and rectify issues in their nascent stages, leading to a more polished and refined final product that caters to a diverse audience and upholds the principles of accessibility.

Beyond legal obligations, accessible design practices yield advantages in SEO (Search Engine Optimization) as well. Search engines favor websites that employ well-structured, semantically rich content – a hallmark of accessible design. Proper headings, descriptive image alt text, and clear link descriptions increase searchability.

Benefits of Prioritizing Accessibility

It is also observed that accessibility-conscious companies convey their dedication to inclusivity, empathy, and user-centric design.

This dedication can cultivate a positive brand image, resonating with consumers who value businesses that prioritize diversity and cater to a spectrum of needs.

Designing accessibility as a core principle has many benefits, with inclusivity being one of the most prominent advantages. Considering accessibility at the start of the project can save rework in later phases. When digital products are crafted to be accessible, they empower individuals who might otherwise be excluded due to disabilities. This approach aligns with equal opportunity and non-discrimination principles, fostering an environment where everyone can engage fully.

Prioritizing accessibility also benefits beyond users with disabilities; it enriches the user experience for a broader audience. Features and design choices that enhance accessibility often lead to improvements that resonate with all users. For instance, including captions not only aids individuals with hearing impairments but also proves advantageous in noisy environments or for users of different languages.

Embracing accessibility demonstrates a legal and ethical commitment. Many regions require digital products to meet accessibility standards, and adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance with the law and showcases moral responsibility by providing equitable access to all users. Australia has its Government Information Accessibility Standards, which mandate that public sector organizations make their information and services accessible to people with disabilities.

enGAge Jan ‘24

Challenges in Achieving Accessibility Integrating accessibility into UX design is undeniably crucial, yet it presents challenges from several factors. One significant problem is the lack of awareness regarding accessibility standards and guidelines among designers, developers, product owners, and even customers! This knowledge gap can inadvertently lead to the exclusion of users with disabilities.

Crafting an accessible user experience demands a profound grasp of diverse disabilities, technologies, and design techniques. Implementing solutions tailored to different impairments can be intricate and time-intensive. This can also be due to budget constraints and resource allocation.

Similarly, there’s a common misconception that prioritizing accessibility might compromise a design’s visual appeal or functionality.

However, with meticulous planning and execution, accessibility upholds aesthetics while delivering all functionality, providing a more comprehensive and inclusive user experience.

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Cost and time overheads are also causes for concern especially if accessibility features were not considered at the start and are more of an afterthought.

In the next part of this blog series, we will focus on some of the best practices recommended by experts to improve accessibility in UX design.

The UNBOX team is the UX CoE at GS Lab | GAVS. The team focuses on the big picture while staying tuned to evolving trends, technologies, and human behavior. With about two decades of product engineering expertise, GS Lab | GAVS delivers best-in-class user experiences that drive product acceptance. To learn more about our User Experience Design services, please visit https://www.gslab.com/user-experience-design/

About the Author Team UNBOX U: Usability N: Next Generation Media B: Branding O: Optimized Solutions X: Experience Unbox is a User Experience team at GS Lab | GAVS. The team prides itself on being the experience strategists who elevate their client’s digital growth and add to their business value.Focus areas of the team being Branding, User Research, Visual Design and User Testing.

Team has a mix of skills like Researcher, Information Architect, Interaction Designer, Brand Designer and Visual Designer. Team specializes in user research, working on new product concepts, redesign/revamp of existing products and feature enhancements. Team also helps in discovery phases involving UX for early product validation from business users. Agile collaboration with UI development teams to ensure the required product experience.

enGAge Jan ‘24

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