Adams, R. (2003). Principles and concepts for information and communication technology design. Journal of visual impairment & blindness, 97(10), 602-611. (edit)

The paper reviews four methods for evaluating ICT system designs and describes how they relate to designing for users with disabilities. Two sets of heuristic design principles, task-based models and full psychological models are described. The author points out that all these approaches are not specifically developed for users with disabilities but with slight modifications, they are applicable. Simplex theories are discussed as a means of encouraging designers to develop design questions based on their understanding of the users’ needs. The author briefly mentions his previous work with participatory design approaches but does not successfully relate it to the other approaches.

The paper essentially is trying to address the shortcomings of current guidelines which try to create a one-size-fits-all approach. The author asserts that it is not practical to design a list of guidelines or a checklist that covers designing for all types of users (including all types of disabilities). The author concludes that the best option may be to encourage designers to generate their own design questions using the Simplex methods. The author’s emphasis on context in ICT design is especially interesting and somewhat overlooked in other discussions of accessibility.