Principle 2: User Led

Charities must assess user needs when procuring tech. They should establish clear specifications and conduct vendor research, ensuring the offering of the vendor aligns with needs

Charities should aim to follow the principles of digital inclusion, i.e. based on an understanding of the digital skills of beneficiaries, supporters, and other stakeholders, their ability to access the internet, and any specific assistive technology needed.

The needs of users who are digitally excluded must be considered, including those individuals in vulnerable circumstances. Every effort should be made to ensure that digital services meet accessibility requirements and regulation, such as the European Accessibility Act, and that the World Wide Web Consortium guidance is taken into account.

Charity leaders must embed accessibility into planning, design, development, and content creation processes. Retrofitting accessibility is costly and less effective, whereas considering accessibility from the start leads to better, more inclusive outcomes.

Charities should respond to users’ changing needs, behaviours, and expectations by factoring data and other insights into improving their activities.

Hub: The Leadership Hub