UX Research Club

S3-E1: Why Accessibility Matters: A Conversation with Julia Gurney

Dr Emmanuelle Savarit Season 3 Episode 1

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In this episode of The UX Research Club, I’m joined by Julia Gurney, Senior UX Researcher and Accessibility Lead at Eye Square in Berlin.

We discuss why accessibility must be embedded into UX research from the start — not treated as a final step. Julia shares her journey, practical tips for inclusive research, and why accessible design benefits all users, not just those with disabilities.


Please find the references mentioned during the episode:

Persona Spectrum: This is a more design-focused resource, but it includes Microsoft’s persona spectrum we talked about:

Podcasts: A few accessibility podcasts (one I mentioned, other I didn’t, but it has some great content)

Deque Systems: a digital accessibility testing tool.
This can be a significant first step in the two-step methodology approach.
They also have some information on how to get started with the EAA; you can sign up for the guide here:https://www.deque.com/european-accessibility-act-eaa-compliance/

AI webinar: AI and Accessibility The Good, the Bad and the Solutions YouTube channel.

GOV.UK Accessibility and assisted digital

GAAD: Global Accessibility Awareness Day 

WCAG: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 


🚀 Masterclass: Leading with Impact — Becoming a UX Research Leader

  • Date: 8 October 2025 (live)
  • Format: Interactive, limited places.
  • Listener offer: Use code UXRC8£159 (instead of £199)
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Ideal for senior researchers and managers who want frameworks, tools, and the confidence to lead with impact.

📖 Coming Soon: The UX Research Powerhouse, Vol. 1 — The Foundation of UX Research Strategic Leadership

Launching in October 2025, A playbook and manifesto for research leaders, with a 365-day leadership roadmap, tools to measure impact, and a bonus chapter on AI.

Practical...