I approach this conversation in terms of Universal Design. Accessibility cannot be an afterthought or an optional add-on. It can't wait until someone "really" needs it and makes a fuss about it - that's way too late! If I anticipate resistance from stakeholders, I often just reframe the issue using different language. People have a kneejerk reaction to the words "accessibility" and "accommodations" because they hear "expensive" and "time consuming." I reframe it for them as "the bare minimum." If people can't access the learning, why are we wasting precious time and resources developing it? It would be more wasteful and expensive NOT to design with accessibility in mind!

Accessibility often isn’t as difficult as it’s made out to be. User data is essential to creating a product that works for the individual and not just the manufacturer. If people can’t use the product, then, as Lauren said, it’s not meeting the bare minimum. And we don’t do the bare minimum anyway.

When I encounter resistance to accessibility in digital learning I focus on shifting the conversation from compliance to inclusion. I try to show stakeholders that accessibility is not just about meeting legal standards but about creating learning experiences that work for everyone. I share real examples of how small changes can make a huge difference for learners whether they have a disability or not. I also highlight how accessible design often benefits all users like how captions help not only deaf learners but also those in noisy environments or who prefer reading. I ask them to imagine themselves or someone they care about in a learning environment that is not built for them.

After giving it considerable thought, I believe that to win over stakeholders resisting accessibility in digital learning, I will focus on demonstrating the tangible benefits of an inclusive approach & its long-term value. I highlight how accessibility improves the user experience for all learners, not just those with disabilities, by making content clearer & more adaptable. I also share data showing how accessibility increases reach & engagement, broadening learner base and fostering a more diverse audience. By aligning accessibility with an organization’s goals, such as improving retention, meeting compliance standards, and enhancing brand reputation, I make a compelling case for why it’s an essential investment in the future of learning.

I’d show how accessibility benefits everyone, improves user experience, and reduces legal risk—backed with real examples and user feedback to make a strong case.

First, just show them the law. Accessibility isn't options, is required for compliance. Second, demonstrate to them how good accessibility doesn't just impact minorities, but it improves experiences for the majority through tweaks such as good text contrast, and audio captions that don't get in the way. Third, ask them to read something in Braille and see how they get on. That's the experience that some people have with poorly designed digital learning.

I’ve found that showing stakeholders the real impact of accessibility, like increased engagement, wider reach, and inclusivity, helps shift the mindset. Framing it as a smart business move and a human responsibility often turns resistance into support.

Resistance to accessibility often stems from misconceptions about cost, complexity, or necessity. At Simba Information, our coverage underscores how accessible design benefits all learners—not just those with identified needs. I’ve found that reframing accessibility as a strategic advantage rather than a compliance issue is key. Grounding conversations in data, highlighting ROI, and amplifying success stories from the field help stakeholders see accessibility not as a burden, but as a long-term investment in equity and performance.

Overcoming resistance to accessibility in digital learning benefits both learners & your brand. 1. Legal & Ethical duty is required, & inclusivity is the right thing to do. 2. Accessibility expands your audience to diverse learners. 3. Accessible content boosts retention & engagement. 4. Accessibility drives long-term value & brand loyalty. 5. Position your brand as inclusive & forward-thinking. 6. Tools like captions benefit all users, not just those with disabilities. By framing accessibility as both a legal requirement and a strategic business advantage, you can shift the narrative and win over even the most resistant stakeholders. Accessibility is not just a feature; it’s an investment in the future of learning.

You don’t sell accessibility as a favor—you sell it as reach. More users, more engagement, more impact. Exclusion kills scale. Show them the numbers. Accessibility isn’t a checkbox—it’s a growth strategy in disguise. If they care about ROI, they’ll care about inclusion.