Documenting digital accessibility challenges for people who are blind or have low vision.

BDIS 2 Report Cover Research Report | April 2024

In April 2023, AFB released results from the Barriers to Digital Inclusion Survey, which looked at accessibility barriers with websites and mobile apps for people who are blind, have low vision, or are deafblind. In that survey, 398 participants shared how frequently they face digital barriers and how those barriers impact them. AFB conducted a second study, Barriers to Digital Inclusion 2, to take a more in-depth look at blind and low-vision people’s digital experiences in real time. Twenty participants completed diaries for 10 days, where they gave detailed accounts of their experiences using websites, apps, and kiosks for a variety of activities. Similar to the earlier survey, these diaries document how common digital accessibility barriers are and how deeply they can impact both the people who face them and the companies and organizations providing digital services. At the end of the report, we reiterate important recommendations for key stakeholders to create greater digital inclusion.

Authors: Arielle M. Silverman, Ph.D. | Ali Abdolrahmani, Ph.D. | Sarahelizabeth J. Baguhn, Ph.D. | Rosalba R. Carranza, Ph.D. | Bia B. Amorosino, B.A.

References: Silverman, A. M., Baguhn, S. J., Amorosino, B. B., & Carranza, R. R. (2023). Barriers to Digital Inclusion Survey: Digital access barriers for Americans who are blind, have low vision, or are deafblind. American Foundation for the Blind.

Suggested Citation: Silverman, A. M., Abdolrahmani, A., Baguhn, S. J., Carranza, R. R. & Amorosino, B. B. (2024). Barriers to Digital Inclusion 2: Documenting digital access challenges for people who are blind or have low vision. American Foundation for the Blind.

Read the report online:

Download the BDIS 2 Executive Summary

Download the Complete BDIS 2 Study

If you have any questions, please get in touch with our Public Policy and Research Institute at research@afb.org.