Experiencing information, acquiring knowledge, and making decisions regarding web accessibility

Abstract

We address the disparity between availability of information and its actual implementation in decisions in the context of Web Accessibility (W-A). Organizations are aware of the importance of W-A for alleviating barriers to interaction with online platforms, such as visual, motor, hearing, and cognitive impairments. Information regarding inclusion design is abundant but implementation is partial. Applying W-A refers to implementing technical and graphical solutions to assist people with disabilities in access and use of online systems. We hypothesized that people who produce information are more likely to decide to apply W-A than information consumers. A total of 651 participants took part in a set of eight experiments. Consumers read information about W-A and producers created the same information. Decisions regarding applying W-A knowledge were measured before and after information use. Results reveal that (1) collaborative information consumption is related to a change in decision; (2) The extent of change in decision relates to the number of collaborating producers; (3) Collaborative information production increases the intent to make a practical decision to apply W-A. This study emphasizes the interaction between information experience and peer collaboration regarding applying W-A knowledge. Insights contribute to organizations knowledge definitions while highlighting the impact of group activity on decision-making