RE: Major UK bank wont listen

 
As with all banks, profit is what matters.
Point out to them that:
Approx 10% of their customers cannot use their online services due to
accessibility problems.
As their customers get older, they will have more accessibility problems.
"Silver surfers" have the largest disposable income of any consumer group,
and an accessible website is essential for this demographic.
They are losing revenue because of this......
Also point out that if their accessibility statement is untrue, thay face
fines and massive negative media attention.
Maybe point out the Target case in the U.S.A.
Also point out the an accessibile website will save them money in the long
run when upgrading or migrating.




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Kieran Glynn C.I.P.P. 
Hewlett-Packard Galway Limited
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Email: kieran.glynn@hp.com


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-----Original Message-----
From: w3c-wai-ig-request@w3.org [mailto:w3c-wai-ig-request@w3.org] On Behalf
Of Chris Harpin
Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2007 11:17 AM
To: w3c-wai-ig@w3.org
Subject: RE: Major UK bank wont listen


I wish to publicly congratulate Andy on taking his responsibility as a web
developer seriously and wishing to look after the best interest of his
client.

Suggesting user testing with people that use AT's will help the bank to
understand why some of there initial suggestions would be better being
delivered using alternative methods.

When a client pays for our services they are employing a specialist and it
is up to us to advise them on what is the best cause of action whilst
attempting to educate them as to why.

The fact that they wish to include an accessibility statement shows that
they are aware the topic exists, finding out which stakeholder introduced it
and then explaining your concerns to that department, may help to then in
turn influence others.

-----Original Message-----
From: w3c-wai-ig-request@w3.org [mailto:w3c-wai-ig-request@w3.org] On Behalf
Of Julian Voelcker
Sent: 07 June 2007 11:04
To: w3c-wai-ig@w3.org
Subject: Re: Major UK bank wont listen


Hi Andy,

> i feel very uncomfortable doing this, could any body please advise me 
> on how i can reason with these people

What is your brief?  If you are there just to build the site, just do as
they ask.

If  you are there to provide some consultancy services, then put together a
report outlining all the problems and provide suggestions as to how to
provide a similar look/feel/functionality, but in an accessible way.  At the
end off the day it is down to the client, because they are paying.

The unfortunate thing is that in reality not many people are going to care
enough to do anything about it.  I guess you could talk to the DRC, however
this will may jeopardise your contract.
--
Cheers,

Julian Voelcker
Cirencester, United Kingdom