Priyanka
Kuvalekar
UX Researcher II at Cisco Systems Inc
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
24 - 4:30 PM EDT/New York (See in local time)
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05/24/2025 4:30 PM
05/24/2025 04:50 PM
America/New_York
#WTGC2025
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
#WTGC2025
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
https://www.womentech.net/ringcentral
https://www.womentech.net/ringcentral
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
"AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD) "
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Session: AI and Accessibility - How can the use of AI in Digital Collaboration Empower People with Disabilities (PwD)
People with Disabilities (PwD) often encounter unique challenges in the workplace that can impede their daily efficiency and productivity. In our fast-evolving digital world, prioritizing accessibility, and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities is paramount. With advancements in Artificial Intelligence, we now have powerful tools available to us, that can help achieve this goal.As a UX Researcher at Cisco Webex, one of the key initiatives I work on is Accessibility Research. I conduct 1:1 user interviews with PwD, referred to as 'Fast Feedback Sessions,' to understand their interactions with various collaboration tools, including Webex products, their perception on AI and their feedback on the accessibility tools and accommodations they require for a seamless experience. I have the privilege of engaging with users of diverse accessibility profiles, including individuals who are blind, neurodivergent, have low vision, or face upper-body mobility challenges, among others.
During my presentation, I will draw from my experience working on ongoing AI-Accessibility research projects at Webex and from the 1:1 interviews I've conducted with PwD to share their needs, expectations, and perspectives regarding AI in digital collaboration; coupled with practical use cases and examples from my work. I will be addressing the challenges that People with Disabilities encounter when interacting with technology to foster empathy, raise awareness, and advocate for the importance of designing for accessibility; as well as a few thoughts on how we empower said users. Through my learnings, I hope to inspire fellow UX Researchers to help future-proof technologies and drive product teams to design AI systems that are inclusive and provide equal access to all users, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
Furthermore, I will share my experiences in conducting accessibility research, highlight the lessons learned, and discuss the challenges I've faced on this journey. I will offer valuable tips for researchers aspiring to undertake similar projects and, ultimately, encourage individuals to become advocates for accessibility.
Key Takeaways
- Impact of Diverse User Input on Innovation: Engaging with a diverse range of people with disabilities in user research not only uncovers their specific needs but also inspires innovative solutions and features that benefit all users. Example: In my c
- Things to remember while Conducting In-Depth Interviews with People with Disabilities (PwD): I would be covering Empathy, Patience, Adaptability and Active Listening
- Thoughts on AI and Accessibility: A compilation of user perceptions on AI from an accessibility standpoint, Inclusive AI and desk research on assistive tools and technologies that use AI.
- Inclusive Design Is Not an Afterthought: Prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity from the beginning of a design process is crucial to creating products that are truly usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.
Bio
Priyanka Kuvalekar is a seasoned UX Researcher with a penchant for listening to users and informing seamless digital experiences. Currently contributing her expertise at Cisco, she has over 5 years of experience in the field of product research and design and holds a master's degree in UX and Interaction Design.Beyond the corporate corridors, Priyanka inclines to express herself creatively. She is a trained singer, dancer, and passionate home cook. She often spends time spilling her beans on food adventures and home decor on her online blog. In the realm of mentorship, Priyanka enjoys sharing her learnings and career journey. She often spends time mentoring budding UX enthusiasts on ADPList.
If you are curious to learn more or just want to connect, find Priyanka on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyanka-kuvalekar-327467a1/; Blog: https://www.instagram.com/mealprepwithpri/; Mentoring: https://adplist.org/mentors/priyanka-kuvalekar; Email: [email protected]
