S3-E1: Why Accessibility Matters: A Conversation with Julia Gurney

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In this episode of The UX Research Club, I’m joined by Julia Gurney, Senior UX Researcher and Accessibility Lead at Eye Square in Berlin.

We discuss why accessibility must be embedded into UX research from the start — not treated as a final step. Julia shares her journey, practical tips for inclusive research, and why accessible design benefits all users, not just those with disabilities.


Please find the references mentioned during the episode:

Persona Spectrum: This is a more design-focused resource, but it includes Microsoft’s persona spectrum we talked about:

Podcasts: A few accessibility podcasts (one I mentioned, other I didn’t, but it has some great content)

• Beyond Barriers podcast— Hector Minto, Microsoft accessibility specialist
• The Digital Accessibility Podcast— not mentioned, but a good resource

Deque Systems: a digital accessibility testing tool.
This can be a significant first step in the two-step methodology approach.
They also have some information on how to get started with the EAA; you can sign up for the guide here:https://www.deque.com/european-accessibility-act-eaa-compliance/

AI webinar: AI and Accessibility The Good, the Bad and the Solutions YouTube channel.

GOV.UK Accessibility and assisted digital

GAAD: Global Accessibility Awareness Day

WCAG: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

UX360 North America April 21 to 23, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia, in partnership the Savannah College of Art and Design.

If you are interested in attending, members of the UX Research Club community receive a 15% discount with the code UXRC15.

Click here 👇
UX360 North America
Discount Code: UXRC15

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