Distribute information through multiple channels such as websites, social media, newsletters, community spaces, partner networks, mailing lists and community radio to reach people where they are.
Use a mix of communication formats such as recorded videos, written guides, infographics, visual diagrams and print materials to make content as widely accessible as possible
Provide materials in alternative formats (large print, braille, plain language, screen-reader compatible documents, audio/video).
Offer synchronous (live), asynchronous (on-demand), and hybrid options to support different time zones, learning styles, and access needs.
Long-term Actions
Maintain clear, consistent communication across multiple modalities, channels and platforms.
Share opportunities in many different places and in different ways. This helps reach people who may not realize that standards development is open to them, or who do not see themselves represented in these spaces.
Kenya – Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) KEBS uses regional outreach hubs, holding local disability forums and deploying mobile teams to recruit and onboard participants. Materials are offered in Braille, sign language, and local languages. New members are paired with mentors.
Committees often use Western communication styles by default. As a result, some voices may be overlooked, and the group may miss valuable input. Common Western norms include:
Speaking often without being asked or invited to speak
Being assertive or dominant in discussions
Interrupting to join the conversation
Openly disagreeing with others
This can exclude or disadvantage members who:
Prefer listening before speaking
Prefer communication in chat
Prefer giving brief or thoughtful contributions
Value reflective or quiet communication
Ways to address the barrier
Empower chairs and facilitators to manage conflict
When access needs are not considered, many people will have trouble getting or understanding information. Some things to consider include:
Language is often too technical and full of jargon.
Documents and materials are often not shared early enough to allow people to prepare.
PDFs, videos, or online content are not always accessible (e.g., screen-reader friendly, captioned, or transcribed).
In fast or large group discussions, many people get left behind, especially when they are new to the subject matter. This is magnified for D/deaf and Hard of Hearing people who rely on sign language/interpretation.
Blind or low-vision people often can’t see body language, facial expressions, or visual cues that clarifies information being communicated.
Visual content like slides, diagrams, or infographics are often not described clearly.
Using multiple channels at once, such as chat, email and verbal discussion, can be confusing and often does not work well for people using screen readers.
People may also have trouble sharing their thoughts or participating. Some things to consider include:
Meetings that lack structured ways to take turns or contribute often leave out neurodiverse people who require clear structures. This can also be a disadvantage for people who depend on sign language/interpretation, such as D/deaf and Hard of Hearing people.
Without clear cues, new members often worry about interrupting and miss opportunities to contribute.
Lack of quiet or low-stimulation options can make participation harder for people with sensory sensitivities.
Poor audio, video, or caption quality in remote meetings can prevent people from fully participating.
People are less likely to continue sharing when they don’t get feedback on whether their contributions were received or understood.
Ways to address the barrier
Host onboarding meetings before committee work begins
Make communications multi-modal and consistent
Plan what to do if goals aren’t met
Provide a welcome package for new members
Provide translation and interpretation for everyone
Many standards organizations do not clearly explain what committee roles involve at the time of application. Providing details like who is on the committee, what they do, and how to contact them is necessary.
As a result, people are often left with basic unanswered questions, such as:
Eligibility and who the role is for
Who can apply?
Who is the committee looking for?
What does “expertise” mean (formal credentials, lived experience, or both)?
What experience or skills are required?
Role expectations and responsibilities
What will I actually be doing in this role?
What are the main responsibilities?
How much influence do members have?
How are decisions made (consensus, voting, chair decision)?
Time and workload
What is the time commitment (hours per month)?
How often are meetings?
How long are meetings?
What is the expected length of membership (months/years)?
Meetings and participation format
Are meetings online, hybrid, or in-person?
What time zone are meetings based in?
Are meetings during work hours or evenings?
Will I need to travel?
Accessibility and accommodations
Will accommodations be provided (sign language/interpretation, captions, accessible documents)?
How do I request accommodations, and when?
Are plain language versions available?
What happens if I face accessibility barriers during the process?
Costs, pay, and support
Is the role paid, volunteer, or supported with an honorarium?
Who covers costs like travel, internet, or software?
Will support be provided for assistive technology needs?
Application process and next steps
What happens after I apply?
How long will it take to hear back?
Who can I contact if I have questions before applying?
Safety, inclusion, and accountability
How will diversity and intersectionality be considered?
What is the process if someone experiences discrimination or harm?
What happens if I need to step back temporarily due to disability, caregiving, or health?
Recognition and credit
How will my contribution be recognized?
Will my name be listed publicly?
Will I be credited in the final standard or related materials?
Ways to address the barrier
Be transparent in the application process
Create a shared support system
Host onboarding meetings before committee work begins