Accessibility vs. Accommodation

Accommodation is making modifications or adjustments upon request. It typically occurs on an individual basis and consists of making special arrangements for one person’s needs.

Accessibility is providing equal opportunity and access for all.

The following illustrations and descriptions were created by the University of Minnesota Office for Digital Accessibility (ODA) to explain the difference between accommodations and accessibility.

Inaccessibility

This image features three spectators at a soccer game of varying ages, races, and heights. They are watching the game from behind a fence, each standing on identical-sized boxes in order to watch over the fence.

This one-size-fits-all approach excludes the smallest spectator, who is unable to see over the fence.

Accommodations

This image features the same group of three spectators, each using a crate of differing height in order to watch the game over the fence.

This environment has been made accessible based on the specific needs of each spectator. Called “reasonable accommodations,” such adjustments meet a legal requirement for compliance.

Accessibility 

This image features updates to the environment. All three spectators are able to experience the game thanks to the chain link fence and the availability of a headset that enables the visually impaired spectator to access the game through audio description of the game.

Accessible design aims to provide equitable access and full participation to everyone to the greatest extent possible.