“We need to make every single thing accessible to every single person with a disability.”

On Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), Stevie Wonder’s quote serves as a powerful reminder that accessibility isn’t optional — it’s essential.

In Chapter 3 of Beyond the Features, we dive into a critical but often overlooked dimension of legal technology: accessibility. While firms typically focus on features, costs, and system integration during tech selection, true success hinges on something deeper — ensuring that every system is usable by everyone in the firm.

Accessibility: More Than a Checkbox

Accessibility isn’t just about ticking a compliance box. It’s about creating a workplace where all team members — regardless of ability — can engage fully with the tools they rely on every day.

When systems lack accessibility, the impacts are real:

• Talented individuals may be unintentionally excluded.

• Day-to-day productivity takes a hit.

• Firms risk non-compliance and potential legal challenges.

These aren’t just edge cases — they’re daily barriers for many. Whether it’s navigating a document management system, accessing CRM tools, or contributing to matter workflows, inaccessible tech can quietly but significantly limit a person’s ability to contribute.

Good Tech Works for Everyone

Stevie’s quote is more than idealism — it’s a practical standard. Good technology should work for everyone, not just the majority. That means building accessibility into the foundation of every platform, every update, every rollout.

This includes:

• Compatibility with screen readers and assistive tech

• Keyboard-only navigation

• Clean, logical interface layouts

• Configurable contrast, font size, and display settings

• Clear documentation that supports alternative formats

When these are considered from the outset, you’re not just meeting requirements — you’re empowering your people.

Ask Yourself:

💡 Does your firm’s tech stack support accessibility for all users — or are hidden barriers limiting how some team members can engage and contribute?

GAAD is the perfect time to pause and reflect. Not just on your tools, but on your firm’s culture. Inclusion starts with awareness — and leads to better design, stronger teams, and smarter technology choices.