Looking To The Future: Web Accessibility, Ageing, and Emerging Web Trends

The Web is becoming increasing ubiquitous and transparent. It is part of our every day life at home and at work. It is also becoming part of our every day life when we are on the move. Web-enabled mobile technologies and portable devices are being deployed at a fascinating rate, so that soon mobile browsers will outnumber traditional desktop browsers. This trend is creating new markets and opportunities for creative ideas and applications. Amongst these markets are e-government initiatives that aim to deliver maximum services for the citizens and authorities at the same time. These systems need to be inclusive and accommodate the accessibility needs of people with disabilities and elderly Web users. At the same time, the understanding for Web accessibility is shifting. In May 2008 the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will enter into force, making access to information technology a basic human right. This will have significant impact in a world of dynamic Web applications, user-generated content, and social networking systems. This presentation will look at some emerging Web trends and discuss the impact on people with disabilities and on a rapidly ageing workforce. It will also highlight some of the potential solutions and challenges for Web authoring tools, user agents, and content creators.