In this insightful conversation, Maayan Ziv [https://www.linkedin.com/in/maayanziv/], the visionary founder of Access Now [https://accessnow.com], discusses the complex realm of accessibility and its profound impact on events and spaces. Originating from her personal struggle as a wheelchair user seeking reliable information, her company, Access Now, has grown into an online community and a catalyst for promoting inclusive practices.
 
In advance of her Oct. 16 keynote address for IMEX America in Las Vegas, Ziv spoke with Northstar's Loren Edelstein about the need for destinations, venues and event planners to "unlearn" current practices and understand what true accessibility requires.
 
• The origins of Access Now (00:00-00:39): Born out of Ziv's personal need, Access Now initially focused on solving the difficulty of finding reliable accessibility information. It has since evolved into a multifaceted platform, collaborating with DMOs and other stakeholders to promote accessibility in destinations, venues, attractions and business events.
 
• Identifying gaps in DEI initiatives (01:28-03:10): Accessibility is often overlooked in DEI conversations, with cities and organizations yet to embrace it fully and commit to inclusive practices.
 
• Accessibility as a continuous journey (03:10-05:00): Accessibility is an evolving process, now going beyond physical spaces to include digital access.
 
• ADA compliance vs. usability (05:00-06:42): There's a distinction between ADA compliance and usability. True inclusivity involves considering the entire customer experience, well beyond mere compliance.
 
• Recommendations for events (06:42-08:45): Planners should consider involving consultants or staff with disabilities in the process, ensuring a holistic approach to accessibility in language, representation and planning.
 
•  Actions to enhance accessibility (08:45-10:50): Proactive measures, like having accessibility desks and sharing information in advance, significantly enhance the inclusivity of events.
 
• Market opportunity and audience size (10:50-13:57): More than 20 percent of the population has some sort of disability, representing vast market potential for event planners who invest in genuine accessibility, unlocking the loyalty of a sizable audience appreciative of inclusive experiences.