Beyond the beep : reimaging screen reader usability with UX at the forefront

Abstract

Digital technologies have become deeply embedded within the present computing environments that shape users’ daily interactions, emerging as essential tools for education, communication, and information exchange. While users generally engage with these technologies through digital interactions, individuals with visual impairments (VI) or visual disabilities (VD) encounter distinct challenges compared to their sighted counterparts. In the specific context of computer-aided drawing systems for the blind (CADB), existing scholarship has significantly advanced our understanding of assistive technologies and the unique ways in which blind and visually impaired (BVI) users interact with human–computer interfaces. It is crucial to enhance usability, support shape creation, and enable intuitive spatial navigation to fully leverage the potential of these interfaces and foster meaningful engagement. This study sought to identify key user experience (UX) principles relevant to the design of screen readers—critical tools in improving digital accessibility for BVI users. The research analyzed a curated selection of 18 scholarly works employing a systematic literature review methodology. A thematic analysis of these sources produced 86 sub-themes, organized into seven overarching themes: Navigation, Content Creation Tools, Interactive Technology, UX Design Principles, Evolving Technology, User Needs, and User Skills. These themes were synthesized into a conceptual model offering actionable insights for UX designers and developers. The resulting framework not only informs the development of more accessible and user-centered screen readers but also contributes to the broader goal of inclusive digital design by ensuring that assistive technologies address the diverse needs of their users.