It took a few months but I am so proud to let you know that last month I was granted membership to The Guild of Accessible Web Designers.

My name is Stuart Brookes and I am the main designer here at 33 Squared.

This was a really big deal for me as I have strived to not only write clean code but also to take into account accessibility issues when designing websites. Now this might not mean a great deal to you when reading this but let me try to explain.

Accessibility in websites enables people with disabilities to be able to navigate your site easily. They might not be able to use a mouse or they may even be visually impaired meaning that they have to relay on an audible screen reader to see your site. Whatever the problem a carefully designed website will solve any issues.

Don’t forget, disabled users account for a fair percentage of internet users in Britain. Why discriminate?

The process of becoming a member of GAWDS was not an easy one and I had to submit a website that was basically pulled to pieces. I got a very nice initial email telling me what I needed to correct in the submitted site and it was then pulled to pieces again. After a few more emails and some (it has to be said) really good advice from GAWDS I was sent an email telling me that my application had been accepted.

I’m over the moon with this as it has taken a good three months to get. My advice to any web designers reading this is simple. Don’t be scared. If you are truly passionate about web design as I am, get in touch with GAWDS at http://www.gawds.org and get yourself some really good pointers and maybe even membership to this fantastic organisation.

33 Squared have just moved to a brand new location.
Offering more space and a better enviroment for our staff and clients, we have opened up our brand new design studio in Oadby in Leicester.

The brand new home of 33 Squared