Beyond Access Consulting

Happy Fourth of July!

Our offices are closed today, July 3, 2026 in honor of Independence Day, we will re-open on Monday July 6, 2026.

Looking to build expertise in facility accessibility?

Our CASp Exam Prep Course combines instruction on California accessibility law and applicable federal standards, including ADA design and review principles. This course helps you make sense of codes and prepares you for the certification exam. Our next exam prep course is happening virtually September 21-25, 2026

Register and learn more here: https://web.cvent.com/event/9d17cc84-2162-47ca-9eb8-f12a19298385/summary

A recent Forbes article discusses the importance of building accessibility into artificial intelligence (AI) tools from the beginning, rather than treating accessibility as an afterthought.

AI technology has the potential to improve communication, navigation, captioning, workplace access, and daily living for many people with disabilities. At the same time, inaccessible design and biased systems can create new barriers if disabled people are not included in the development process.

The article emphasizes the importance of involving people with disabilities in technology design, testing, and decision-making to help create more accessible digital tools for everyone.

Read more: https://www.forbes.com/sites/keelycatwells/2026/05/03/artificial-intelligence-has-one-chance-to-get-accessibility-right/

Advance your facility accessibility knowledge with our virtual CASp Exam Prep Course, September 21-25 2026!

Learn key California accessibility laws and federal disability requirements in this five‑day training before sitting for the certification exam.

Register and learn more here: https://ow.ly/StE050Z9vX0

Our new online course Digital Accessibility Basics is now live!

This self-paced online course introduces the fundamentals of digital accessibility and practical strategies for creating fully accessible digital content.

Participants will learn accessibility best practices for websites, documents, and social media, while gaining an overview of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Level AA standards, common digital barriers, accessibility tools and resources, and recent digital accessibility requirements for Title II entities (State and Local Governments).

Enroll in the course today: https://centerondisability.thinkific.com/courses/Digital%20Accessibility%20Basics

A recent Inside Higher Ed discussion explores how small accessibility changes can make a big difference for students with disabilities in higher education.

Simple adjustments such as captioned videos, accessible course materials, flexible learning options, readable documents, and clear communication can help improve access for many students. Accessibility benefits not only students with disabilities, but also multilingual learners, students with temporary injuries, and others who may need different ways to access information.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) supports equal access in educational settings, including colleges and universities.

Read more: https://www.insidehighered.com/podcasts/campus/2026/05/04/why-small-changes-make-big-difference-accessibility-higher-education

Happy Juneteenth!

Our office is closed today June 19, 2026, we will resume normal business hours Monday, June 22, 2026.

A new postsecondary program highlighted by Disability Scoop is helping prepare autistic students for careers in the video game industry through hands-on training and career development opportunities.

Programs like this can help expand employment pathways for people with disabilities by focusing on individual strengths, accessible learning environments, mentorship, and real-world job skills. Inclusive education and workforce programs can play an important role in increasing employment access for autistic people and other people with disabilities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) helps protect the rights of people with disabilities in education and employment settings.

Read more: https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2026/04/28/postsecondary-program-to-prepare-those-with-autism-to-work-in-video-game-industry/31971/

A recent WBUR article explores “ability drift,” or the idea that disability can become part of many people’s lives over time through aging, illness, injury, or changing health conditions.

The article highlights why accessibility benefits everyone, not just a small group of people. Features like captions, ramps, accessible websites, flexible work options, and clear communication can improve access for people with disabilities across many areas of daily life.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) continues to play an important role in supporting access and reducing barriers in workplaces, transportation, public services, and businesses.

Read more: https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2026/04/28/accessibility-ability-drift

Accessible home technology can help people with disabilities live more independently and safely in their communities. A recent Consumer Reports article highlights tools such as voice-controlled devices, video doorbells, smart lighting, and other products designed to improve everyday access.

Home accessibility can support people with mobility disabilities, vision disabilities, hearing disabilities, cognitive disabilities, and older adults. Small changes in the home environment can make a significant difference in safety, communication, and independence.

Read more: https://www.kcra.com/article/consumer-reports-helpful-accessible-home-gadgets/71144830