Business Disability Forum has published polling suggesting disabled people want a far more direct role in the design of AI tools. In a survey of 1,032 disabled UK adults conducted with Opinium, 40% said the most important step in making AI more accessible is to design, develop, and test products with disabled people themselves.
Other priorities identified in the survey included more user-friendly interfaces, cited by 38% of respondents, greater availability of information about how AI can support disabled people at 37%, and more help for disabled people getting started with AI at 36%.
Respondents were also asked how AI could help now and in the future. Business Disability Forum said 38% pointed to improved communication, 34% to better online experiences, and 33% to improved access to healthcare information and communication. Other areas included improved accessibility of digital content, support for independent living, improved customer experience, and better access to employment and the workplace.
Lara Davis, Communications Director at Business Disability Forum, said: “There is the potential for AI products and tools to make a radical and positive difference to disabled people’s lives, but there is also the risk that disabled people could be left behind.” She added: “Businesses must actively consult with their disabled consumers to make sure they are involved in the design, development and testing of AI products to assess their suitability.”
Business Disability Forum said a separate Opinium poll of 2,000 UK adults produced similar results, with 34% saying disabled people should be involved in designing and developing AI products. The organisation is calling on businesses and developers to involve disabled people throughout the AI lifecycle, provide clear information on accessibility features, ensure compatibility with assistive technology, and maintain human oversight.
