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JUNIOR LEVEL

Describe a time when you had to design for accessibility and inclusivity. How did you ensure that your designs were accessible to all users?

Product Design Lead Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to design for accessibility and inclusivity. How did you ensure that your designs were accessible to all users?

Sample answer to the question

One time, I had to design a website for a client who wanted to make it accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. To ensure accessibility, I followed best practices such as using proper heading structure, providing alternative texts for images, and implementing clear and concise content. I also made sure to test the website with screen readers and keyboard-only navigation to ensure it was usable for people with visual impairments or motor disabilities.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Junior Product Designer, I had the opportunity to design an app for a healthcare organization that needed to be accessible to all users. To ensure inclusivity, I followed a user-centered design approach. I conducted extensive research to understand the needs and limitations of different user groups, including those with visual impairments, motor disabilities, and cognitive impairments. Based on the findings, I implemented various accessibility features such as adjustable font sizes, high color contrast, and clear icons with text labels. I also collaborated closely with the development team to ensure that the designs were implemented correctly. Throughout the design process, I conducted usability testing with individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities, gathering feedback to iterate and improve the accessibility of the app.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the project, including the client's requirements and the candidate's role as a Junior Product Designer. It also showcases the candidate's understanding of user-centered design principles and their ability to collaborate with the development team. However, it could still be improved by describing the impact and outcomes of the design improvements.

An exceptional answer

During my time as a Junior Product Designer, I led the redesign of a web platform for an educational institution with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity. This project was particularly challenging as the platform had complex interactions and needed to cater to a diverse user base. To ensure that our designs were accessible to all users, we conducted thorough research by interviewing students and staff with disabilities. By empathizing with their experiences, we gained valuable insights into the barriers they faced in accessing the platform. Based on these insights, we implemented several key accessibility features, including keyboard navigation support, alternative text for images, and adjustable color schemes for users with visual impairments. We also collaborated closely with the development team to ensure the correct implementation of these features. As a result of our efforts, the redesigned platform received positive feedback from users with disabilities, who praised the improved accessibility and usability. This project taught me the importance of designing with empathy and considering the diverse needs of all users.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides a detailed example of a more complex and impactful project. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to lead a redesign project, conduct thorough research, empathize with users, and collaborate effectively with the development team. The outcome of the project is also described, highlighting the positive feedback from users with disabilities. However, it could still be improved by mentioning specific design principles and practices employed in the project.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with accessibility guidelines and standards such as WCAG 2.1 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).
  • Research case studies or examples of successful accessibility design projects.
  • Practice explaining your design process and the specific accessibility features you have implemented in previous projects.
  • Consider how you can showcase your collaboration and communication skills in the context of designing for accessibility.
  • Stay updated on the latest accessibility tools, technologies, and trends in the industry.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Design thinking
  • User-centered design
  • UI/UX design
  • Collaboration
  • Communication

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