Looking forward to collaboration

Hello!

My name is Jonathan Metz and I am a Graphic Designer who specializes in print and publication design. My interest in accessibility was born while creating Section 508 compliant PDFs for the Center for Social Innovation, a mission-based for-profit that managed a project for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). I became more involved after recognizing the lack of accessibility of PDFs even using only the provisions under Section 508.

I came about this group after beginning a personal project on creating accessible maps. I feel that there is a rift between what is available to sighted individuals and those that are visually impaired when it comes to graphic representations. Additionally, I believe that current standards for accessing graphics, particularly when the graphic is the fundamental reason the document exists, are far too lax on being of any help to an individual with a disability.

I have experience using the Adobe Creative Suite, and look forward to designing complex illustrations for the group in an effort to assist in developing a more accessible infographics. Thank you for the opportunity, and I look forward to working with you in the near future!

Jonathan Metz
www.jonathanmetz.com