Accessibility and Usability of eCommerce Systems

RNIB has had a presence on the web since October 1993, which it has used both to disseminate information and to develop and demonstrate good practice. As an integral part of this work, RNIB launched its Online Shop in March 2002, a practical example of eCommerce tailored to address the needs of both visually impaired customers and their sighted friends and carers. Currently, user access is being significantly enhanced by the addition of a natural language interface as part of the EU funded project 'IMAGINE'. This paper focuses on aspects of both developments that have advanced our understanding of best practice in the area of eCommerce.