In the digital world of today, having an accessible website is more important than ever.
An accessible website should be designed and developed to be usable by everyone, including those with disabilities. This includes people with visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive and neurological disabilities. Another important piece to remember about web accessibility is that a barrier-free website is one that will function on various devices and with various internet speeds. It takes time and planning and effort to design, build and maintain a barrier-free and accessible website.
So, what exactly is an accessible website and how does it work?
An accessible website is one that is designed with features that make it easier for people with disabilities to use. This can include things such as clear and consistent navigation, text alternatives for non-text content, captions for videos and the ability to navigate the site using only a keyboard. These features make it possible for people with disabilities to access and use the information and services provided on your website. Color usage and font sizing are important things to consider when designing your website, as they play an important role with accessibility.
Know the numbers. Know the problem.
The increasing number of individuals with disabilities underscores the significance of website accessibility. According to the World Health Organization and the CDC, approximately 16% of the global population have a disability. This accounts for over 1 billion people worldwide of whom may encounter challenges in accessing websites that are not built with accessibility in mind. These disabilities encompass physical, sensory, cognitive and intellectual impairments. Given the substantial impact of disabilities on a significant portion of the population, it is crucial for websites to be designed in a manner that is inclusive and accessible to all. By ensuring that your website is accessible, you can tap into this demographic and provide them with the same level of service and information as any other user.
Accessibility online matters!
Having an accessible website is not only important for ensuring equal access for all users, but it also makes good business sense. By making your website accessible, you can reach a wider audience, improve user experience for all visitors, and even boost your search engine rankings. Additionally, many countries have laws and regulations in place that require websites to be accessible, so having an accessible website can also help you avoid legal issues. It also boils down to being the right thing to do.
So what can I do to change my website?
To make your website more accessible, you can start by ensuring that it is compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies. This can involve adding alternative text to all images, using proper heading structures and providing clear and descriptive link text. It’s also important to consider color contrast for readability and to make sure all interactive elements are easily navigable using a keyboard. Additionally, providing captions for multimedia content and offering a way to adjust text size can further enhance accessibility. Getting overwhelmed? Well take a breath, we are here for all your website needs!
An accessible website reflects positively on your organization.
Moreover, having an accessible website can improve your business’s reputation. It demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and sends a message that you value all potential customers or clients. This can be particularly important for businesses that want to cultivate a positive brand image and show that they are socially responsible.
Accessible websites can help your business to reach wider audiences.
In conclusion, having an accessible website is crucial for ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can access and use the information and services provided. By making your website accessible, you can improve user experience, reach a wider audience and ensure compliance with legal requirements. It’s not just the right thing to do – it’s also good for business.
Let’s talk about how Kleurvision can help you become accessible online, we can make it quick and simple.
