Improving User Experience for Visually Impaired Individuals Based on Accessibility Guidelines and Information Design in the Use of the Control Escolar Website of the University of Guadalajara

In Mexico, over 7 million people live with a disability, often facing significant barriers to accessing education and technology. The website examined in this research belongs to one of the most important public universities in western Mexico, receiving more than 7 million visits per semester, including over 2,000 applicants with disabilities per cycle. This study addresses the site's accessibility for visually impaired users. It explores how implementing the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Information Design Principles can improve usability and ensure equitable access to education. The main objective of this research is to develop an accessible website optimized for visually impaired users by applying inclusive design principles and international web accessibility standards. The methodology includes a comparative evaluation between the current site interface and a proposed redesign, focusing on user experience. The research follows a four-stage methodological approach: (1) evaluation of the existing website, (2) analysis of the profile and needs of visually impaired users, (3) redesign of the website, and (4) evaluation of the new user experience. To gather qualitative and quantitative data, tools such as heuristic evaluation (identifying 44 accessibility issues), the “Lighthouse” extension from Google Chrome (which automatically tracks accessibility across each page), and the WCAG-EM methodology (which verifies compliance with international accessibility guidelines) were used. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with users to understand their technological and educational barriers, and A/B tests were performed to measure the efficiency of the new interface, using PSSUQ questionnaires and Affinity Walls to collect key information. The study's results were very favorable for users. The redesigned website achieved a 62% reduction in navigation time and improved user effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction. In terms of accessibility, users could perceive, operate, and understand the site optimally, enhancing their autonomy when interacting with the platform. Implementing web accessibility guidelines and inclusive design principles in the new interface was crucial to the success of this project. Visually impaired users rated their experience positively, describing the site as accessible and easy to use. In conclusion, this study shows that web accessibility is achieved when a website enables users, regardless of physical or technological limitations, to independently interact with information. Designing with the user in mind makes interfaces more effective and efficient but also improves people's quality of life by providing equal access to information and educational services. Plans include implementing these accessibility and usability improvements across all websites in the UdeG university network, developing responsive versions for mobile devices, and ensuring the accessibility of key documents hosted on the site for prospective students.