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Ethical AI isn't just a philosophy; it’s a practical framework for building better digital experiences. In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Warren Wilansky, founder of Plank and the Ethical Web Collective, to explore what ethics actually look like in web design and development. From accessibility and inclusion to sustainable coding and responsible data collection, Warren shares real-world examples and tools that small marketing teams can use today, without needing a massive tech budget.

You’ll learn why accessibility is more than a compliance checklist, how AI can open new doors for users with different abilities, and why bloated websites and passive data collection could silently drain your resources. Whether you’re leading marketing for an SMB or managing your organization’s online presence, this conversation will help you rethink how your digital footprint affects real people and how to make it more human.

Top Takeaways:
1. Ethics in design is about alignment, not judgment.
Ethics shouldn’t feel like a moral high ground; it’s about defining and living by values that align with your brand and customers.

2. Accessibility expands your reach and reflects your values.
Making your website usable for people with disabilities or limited connectivity isn't just right; it’s good business.

3. Optimize your site for low bandwidth, not just high-end devices.
A fast, lightweight website serves people in rural areas, on mobile, or with unreliable internet, and audiences are often overlooked.

4. Follow real accessibility standards, not just automated scores.
Tools like Google Lighthouse are a starting point, but true inclusion comes from understanding WCAG guidelines and user experience.

5. Responsible development means planning for handoffs.
Write clean, well-documented code and interfaces so future developers or your client aren’t left with digital debt.

6. Environmental impact matters even online.
Every page load and AI query consumes energy; minimizing bloat and heavy media is a quiet but powerful way to reduce your carbon footprint.

7. Auto-playing videos and giant images can do more harm than good.
Design choices that look slick may slow down performance and hurt accessibility, especially on mobile.

8. Don’t hoard data you’re not using.
Storing outdated or unused customer data is a risk and a liability; only collect what you can actually use to improve the experience.

9. Open-source and portable tools build long-term trust.
Use platforms like WordPress and avoid proprietary lock-ins so your clients (or future self) aren't stuck.

10. Ethical handoffs create better referrals and reputations.
Warren sees passing on well-documented, functional websites as a professional responsibility, not a missed opportunity.

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Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.