DEM - Ethical Issues in Web Design Lesson

 

Ethical Issues in Web Design Lesson

In the early days of the Internet, websites consisted of text-based information. Since that time, websites have been enhanced with multimedia and other enhancements to make interaction possible. Because of these developments, guidelines are needed so no laws are violated. Many established web design companies have a Code of Web Ethics so clarification is provided on the web designer's responsibility to clients, the web designer's responsibility to the public, fees, and basic conduct and contractual guidelines. Meeting the requirements for accessibility, having a knowledge of Copyright Law and having insight into privacy regulations must be acquired, so ethical issues are not encountered.

 

Accessibility

The website you create must be accessible for everyone. Discussions about accessibility issues should be held during the planning process to ensure equal access is available to all features on the website. Visually impaired individuals use a screen reader to gain understanding of images that are displayed on the website, therefore alternate text must be coded when images are uploaded to the website to allow this. If a member of your target audience has a hearing impairment, providing a transcript of an audio file will provide her/him with the information needed to understand the message shared on the web page. 

Click here for more information on accessibility. Links to an external site.

If the link does not work, please contact your teacher.

Copyright

Did you know that once you create a work it is automatically protected under Copyright Law? Violation of copyright occurs when you use images or other works without obtaining the permission of the originator of the work. It is a good practice to include as part of your web design team a graphic designer and web content specialist so that work created is original or obtained properly. 

Click here for more information on copyright. Links to an external site.

If the link does not work, please contact your teacher.

Privacy

It is ethical to respect the privacy of others, but as owners of websites permit third-parties to post ads on their websites, information can be obtained from users and sold to outside agencies. As you meet with your client, it may be helpful to remind the executives of this fact. As the web developer, you may obtain information about the organization that competitors would find valuable. It is important that you not disclose any information that should be kept private. It will also benefit you to understand the terms of the non-compete clauses indicated in the contract since some clauses extend beyond the time the website has been published.  

The decisions you make as a web developer can have long-term consequences for your career. For that reason, you should think through each decision before taking action. 

 

Test your knowledge of ethical issues by completing the self-assessment quiz below.

 

 

Visit the following websites for more information:

Ethics and Web Design Links to an external site.

Professional Association for Design Links to an external site.

Code of Ethics Links to an external site.

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