By: John McAllister

In today’s evolving business landscape, accessibility is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity. Angela Fowler, CEO of Real Life Access, is at the forefront of helping businesses integrate accessibility into their physical, digital, and cultural frameworks. Through her company’s comprehensive “Access for Everyone” courses, Fowler is ensuring that organizations can provide seamless and inclusive experiences for all employees and customers, including those with disabilities. In this interview, Fowler shares insights into the various aspects of accessibility and how businesses can successfully adopt an inclusive approach.

Could you provide a brief overview of the “Access for Everyone” courses and explain how each one addresses different aspects of accessibility within an organization?

Angela Fowler: Our “Access for Everyone” courses are designed to cover the three primary areas of accessibility—physical, digital, and cultural. Physical Accessibility focuses on in-person environments, ensuring that all individuals can access and enjoy physical spaces, such as events, company premises, and even simple things like company potlucks, which should consider food allergies. Digital Accessibility addresses all digital components, from websites to online advertisements and media. This course equips businesses to make their digital content accessible to everyone, ensuring no one is left out of the online experience. Lastly, Cultural Accessibility is about embedding an inclusive mindset within an organization. It operates on the premise that difference is ordinary, and the course encourages businesses to embrace and value diversity in all its forms. We also offer an “Accessibility Basics” course that provides a general overview, tying these concepts together using a fictional yet realistic business scenario.

How do the “Physical Accessibility” and “Digital Accessibility” courses equip organizations with practical steps to ensure everyone, from employees to customers, can easily access their spaces and digital content?

Fowler: Each lesson in these courses is structured to address specific needs within an organization, offering practical and affordable solutions. For example, the Physical Accessibility course might include simple suggestions such as ensuring there are ramps or wider doorways for wheelchair users, while the Digital Accessibility course covers best practices like making websites compatible with screen readers. The goal is to offer practical, easy-to-implement tips that can be rolled out quickly and without breaking the bank.

What are some key takeaways from the “Cultural Accessibility” course that can help organizations make accessibility a core part of their culture, and why is this cultural shift important?

Fowler: The key takeaway from Cultural Accessibility is the recognition that disability is a normal part of life. Everyone, at some point, will either experience a disability themselves or have someone close to them who does. This course encourages organizations to approach difference with “helpful nonchalance”—to make accommodations readily available without making it a big deal. Asking “How can I help?” and accepting the answer without judgment goes a long way. This cultural shift is crucial because it sets the tone for inclusivity across the entire company, ensuring that accessibility is seen not as an afterthought, but as a foundational value.

Can you share an example of how an organization might apply the knowledge gained from these courses to create a more inclusive environment for everyone?

Fowler: A great example is how a company could apply these lessons during a corporate retreat. First, they would make sure that the venue is wheelchair accessible and offers enough space for everyone to move comfortably. The company would also provide food options that cater to different dietary needs, ensuring that everyone feels included. Important information would be shared in accessible formats, and the company’s website, if used for booking, would be fully accessible. Lastly, meetings would be designed with accessibility in mind—using microphones for speakers, verbalizing visual content from slides, and keeping sessions short and focused. This proactive approach allows for a smoother, more inclusive experience without the need for individuals to request accommodations.

In your experience, what are some common misconceptions that organizations have about the Disability Market and its buying power?

Fowler: One of the biggest misconceptions is that the buying power of people with disabilities is much lower than it actually is. Many businesses overlook this market, assuming that it isn’t significant. However, when you include seniors—many of whom have disabilities—the market is actually worth over $2 trillion. Ignoring this demographic not only excludes a large segment of potential customers but also leaves significant revenue on the table.

What practical steps can organizations take to make their products and services more accessible to the Disability Market?

Fowler: The first step is to open yourself up to feedback from customers and employees with disabilities. Their input is invaluable for identifying gaps in your current accessibility efforts. And remember, if the feedback is uncomfortable, that’s often a sign you’re on the right track toward positive change. The second step is to consult with an accessibility professional. At Real Life Access, we offer coaching and consulting to help organizations prioritize their accessibility needs and develop a plan that fits their budget. Accessibility doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated—it just takes the right approach and a willingness to make changes.

In conclusion, Angela Fowler’s work at Real Life Access highlights the importance of making accessibility a core part of business operations. Through her courses and consulting services, she’s helping organizations embrace accessibility not just as a compliance measure, but as a key to long-term success. By ensuring that physical spaces, digital platforms, and company cultures are accessible, businesses can create inclusive environments where everyone thrives.

Learn More About Real Life Access Today!
Linked In: Angela Fowler

Published by: Martin De Juan