Session Recap: Digital Accessibility & Your Supply Chain: Key Takeaways from Dr. Stephen Framil at LogiPharma
At LogiPharma 2025, Dr. Stephen Framil, Corporate Global Head of Accessibility at Merck & Co. Inc., delivered a compelling keynote titled "Digital Accessibility & Your Supply Chain." The session addressed the importance of digital accessibility and disability inclusion, defining key concepts and outlining actionable strategies for pharmaceutical leaders. As digital transformation accelerates, these topics are increasingly vital for supply chain resilience, compliance, and patient engagement.
Key Takeaways
1. Digital Accessibility Is Essential for Inclusive Design
Dr. Framil emphasized that digital accessibility means designing software and user interfaces so people with disabilities can effectively interact with digital content. This includes using plain language, translations, and inclusive design principles, ensuring that digital tools are usable by everyone, whether through personal means or assistive technologies.
2. Disability Inclusion Drives Business Value
The session highlighted the economic impact of disability inclusion, citing that 1.58 billion people with disabilities and 3 billion caregivers represent over $18 trillion in disposable income. Companies that prioritize accessibility tap into a significant market and strengthen their brand reputation and customer loyalty.
3. Regulatory Requirements Are Expanding
Dr. Framil discussed the growing regulatory landscape, referencing laws like the Accessible Canada Act, Israel’s longstanding accessibility mandates, and the recent European Accessibility Act. These regulations increasingly require digital products and services to be accessible, making compliance a strategic imperative for global pharma companies.
4. Accessibility Benefits Everyone
The keynote illustrated that universal design not only supports those with permanent, temporary, or situational disabilities but also improves usability for all users. Examples included curb cuts, which aid wheelchair users, parents with strollers, and delivery personnel alike, demonstrating that accessible design is broadly beneficial.
5. Accessibility Must Be Embedded Across the Supply Chain
Dr. Framil stressed that digital accessibility should be integrated throughout the entire drug development lifecycle, from research and manufacturing to patient engagement and internal operations. This holistic approach ensures that every digital touchpoint is inclusive and compliant.
6. Practical Steps for Implementation
The session provided actionable advice, such as ensuring sufficient color contrast, using patterns and labels instead of color alone, structuring headings for screen readers, and adding alternative text to images. Dr. Framil advocated for “shifting left,” such as building accessibility into design and testing early to avoid costly retrofits.
7. Involving People with Disabilities in Design
A key principle shared was “nothing about us without us,” urging organizations to include people with disabilities in teams and decision-making. This approach ensures digital solutions truly meet diverse needs and foster authentic inclusion.
Why It Matters
As the pharmaceutical industry embraces digital transformation, accessibility and inclusion are no longer optional; they are foundational to business success and regulatory compliance. Dr. Framil’s insights underscore the need for pharma leaders to design digital experiences that are not only compliant but also genuinely inclusive, supporting patients, caregivers, and employees alike. By embedding accessibility into every stage of the supply chain, organizations can reduce risk, enhance user satisfaction, and unlock new market opportunities. The session’s practical examples and strategic guidance offer a roadmap for building resilient, future-ready supply chains that prioritize both human rights and business outcomes.
Actionable Insights
- Integrate accessibility early: Build inclusive design and testing into initial project phases to minimize costly fixes.
- Comply with global regulations: Stay ahead of evolving accessibility laws in all operating regions.
- Engage diverse stakeholders: Include people with disabilities in design, development, and decision-making processes.
- Audit digital assets regularly: Review websites, apps, and documents to ensure ongoing accessibility and usability.