HarmonyVote
Inclusive Technology Design Standards Act
Abstract:
This act mandates inclusive and accessible design standards for all technologies to ensure digital and physical systems are usable by people of all abilities, backgrounds, and cultures.
Description:
Initiative Title: Inclusive Technology Design Standards Act
Description:
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Universal Design Mandate:
Require that all government-funded and mass-market technology (software, hardware, platforms) follow universal design principles, making them usable by the widest range of people regardless of age, ability, or situation. -
Accessibility Compliance Framework:
Develop and enforce global accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 3.0, ISO/IEC 29138) for websites, mobile apps, wearable devices, and public interfaces (like kiosks or ticket machines). Noncompliant vendors face penalties or funding ineligibility. -
Inclusive Product Development Guidelines:
Mandate that all tech development teams include diverse representation (gender, race, disability, geography) and follow inclusive design practices like participatory research, user testing with marginalized users, and iterative accessibility review. -
Multilingual and Cultural Adaptation Requirements:
Technologies must support localization, including translation into minority languages, culturally appropriate symbols and metaphors, and adaptability to low-bandwidth environments. -
Government Procurement Standards:
Require public institutions to prioritize accessible and inclusive technologies in procurement, setting an example for private sector adoption. -
Inclusive Innovation Funding:
Launch innovation grants and accelerators for startups and social enterprises creating tech that addresses specific inclusion challenges (e.g., screen readers, rural connectivity, elder-friendly apps, sign language interfaces). -
Transparency and Certification Labeling:
Establish a global "Inclusive Tech Certified" label for compliant products, allowing consumers and governments to make informed purchasing decisions. -
Education and Workforce Training:
Fund training for developers, designers, and engineers in inclusive design principles. Integrate inclusive tech curricula into computer science and design programs.
Possible Outcomes and Implications:
- Wider Technology Adoption: More people—especially those previously excluded—can fully engage with digital tools, boosting inclusion in education, finance, work, and health.
- Economic and Social Equity: Inclusive design reduces the digital divide, expands employment and learning opportunities, and supports independent living.
- Market Expansion and Innovation: Businesses reach more customers and innovate for a broader user base, including aging populations and emerging markets.
- Alignment with Human Rights: Embeds dignity, fairness, and equality into the foundation of global technological progress.
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Voting Instructions:
- If you support the "Inclusive Technology Design Standards Act", respond with "Yes."
- If you do not support the act, respond with "No."
- If you have suggestions for modifications or additional points, please share them.