Adaptable Web-based user interfaces:methodology and practice

This paper introduces a novel approach to the development of inclusive Web-based user interfaces. This approach, proposed as an alternative to the traditional design and development for the ʹaverageʹ user, builds on concepts and principles of the Unified User Interfaces (U2I) methodology and aims at increased accessibility and usability through user interface adaptation to diverse users characteristics, including disability, expertise, preferences, etc.. The EAGER development toolkit, which facilitates Web developers in following the proposed approach in practice, is also introduced here. As a case study, the paper then describes the employment of EAGER in the development of a new fully functional Web portal for the European Design for All and e-Accessibility (EDeAN) network, proving the viability and consistency of the toolkit, as well as its ability to stand as a horizontal and efficient development aid. A number of complementary evaluation techniques were applied to EAGER and to the developed prototype portal, confirming the perceived benefits both for end-product users and Web developers