Web Accessibility Barriers and their Cross-disability Impact in eSystems: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Accessibility is an important component in the implementation of Web systems to ensure that these are usable, engaging, and enjoyable by all regardless of the level of ability, condition, or circumstances. Despite manifold efforts, the Web is still largely inaccessible for a plurality of reasons (e.g. poor navigation, lack of/unsuitable alternative text, complex Web forms) with significant impact on disabled users. The impact of Web accessibility barriers varies per disability, but current measures for the impact of barriers treat disabilities as a homogeneous group. In this work, we present a scoping review of the Web accessibility research landscape. Following a structured approach, 112 studies were reviewed, and findings are reported on common Web accessibility barriers and practices within the Web Accessibility Lifecycle. An assessment framework is further proposed to measure the impact of such barriers across disabled groups. Finally, the need for extensive qualitative research into organizational change and multinational studies on Web activity and disturbance by barriers per disabled user group are discussed as future avenues for accessibility research.