Did you know that every year, on the third Thursday of May, we celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)? It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of creating digital experiences that are inclusive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of ability. Here at Scout Digital, we’re passionate about this concept, and we believe web accessibility isn’t just a box to check – it’s the key to unlocking a world of potential.
You might be thinking, “Accessibility sounds great, but is it really that essential?” Well, get ready, because you’re about to learn why accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s a smart business decision as well.
Equality in the digital age: accessibility for information and inclusion
The Internet is a vast library of information and a powerful communication tool. Imagine the frustration of being locked out of this incredible resource because of a website that isn’t designed with accessibility in mind. By prioritizing accessibility, we’re opening the door to a wider audience and fostering a more inclusive online environment.
Accessibility isn’t just about numbers; it’s about empathy. We all deserve equal access to information and the ability to engage with the world around us. An accessible website empowers everyone to navigate it with confidence, whether they use screen readers, require alternative text descriptions for images, or benefit from clear and concise language.
Why everybody wins with accessibility: universal design and the curb cut effect
Solutions created to address the needs of specific populations can benefit society as a whole, creating positive ripple effects that reach everyone, even in unexpected ways. In short, helping those who need it most can often lift others up as well.
Of course, this is true outside of the web too. Next time you are strolling about town, take a look at the ramped areas built into the sidewalks around you. They’re called “curb cuts,” and while you might think they’re solely for wheelchair users, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This is a prime example of the “curb cut effect,” where features designed for accessibility end up benefiting everyone. Parents pushing strollers, cyclists, and even people carrying heavy groceries or luggage all use curb cuts to navigate their surroundings more easily.
Universal design takes this concept even further. It’s the philosophy of creating environments and products usable by everyone, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance. Think captions on videos for people who are deaf or hard of hearing or wider doorways that accommodate wheelchairs while making it easier to transport large deliveries. Universal design isn’t just about accommodations. It’s about creating a more inclusive and efficient world for everyone.
The business case for website accessibility: data-backed results
In today’s digital world, websites are often the first point of contact for potential customers. But what if you’re unintentionally excluding a significant portion of your audience? There are numerous compelling reasons to prioritize website accessibility. Here are a few to know about that could help expand your reach:
- Reaching a Larger Audience: Did you know that one in five people experience some form of disability? You might be missing out on a massive audience by neglecting accessibility. Building accessible websites expands your potential customer base significantly.
- SEO Boost: Search engines love user-friendly websites, and guess what? Accessibility features like clear code and descriptive alt text are also considered user-friendly by search engines! This can lead to a higher ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs).
- Enhanced User Experience: Accessibility isn’t just a formality; it’s about creating a smooth and enjoyable experience for all users. Features like clear navigation, proper use of color contrast, and keyboard operability make your website a joy to use for everyone, not just those with disabilities.
The how-to: web accessibility in action
Let’s unlock the full potential of your website. What do you need to do to ensure it’s accessible? Here are some actionable tips:
Visuals:
- Color Contrast: People with low vision may struggle to distinguish between text and background colors with low contrast. Use online tools to check your website’s contrast ratio and ensure good readability.
- Alt Text: Don’t forget the images you’ve included! Add descriptive alt text to each image, providing context for screen readers used by visually impaired users.
- Captions: For videos, include an option for captions so everyone can enjoy the content, regardless of hearing ability.
Structure & Navigation:
- Headings: Use clear and logical heading hierarchies (H1, H2, etc.) to structure your content, making it easier for users with screen readers to navigate the website.
- Keyboard Navigation: Ensure your website is fully functional using only the keyboard. This is crucial for users with motor impairments who might not be able to use a mouse or trackpad.
- Simple & Clear Language: Avoid jargon and technical terms. Write in a clear, concise, and easy-to-understand manner.
Bonus Tip: Test, test, test! Use accessibility testing tools to identify and fix any accessibility issues on your website.
Your website accessibility checklist
Ready to make your website welcoming for all? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a handy accessibility checklist for marketers:
Visual Clarity:
- Use sufficient color contrast between text and background.
- Choose clear and readable fonts.
- Allow users to resize text.
Images:
- Include alt text for all images, describing the content accurately.
Forms:
- Label all form fields clearly.
- Make forms easy to navigate using the keyboard.
Links:
- Use clear and descriptive link text.
- Indicate external links visually
Navigation:
- Ensure clear and consistent website navigation.
- Allow for keyboard navigation of all menus and elements.
More website accessibility solutions
There are a variety of tools and resources available to help you create accessible websites. Here are a few suggestions:
- Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI): The WAI is a fantastic resource from the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) that provides guidelines and best practices for web accessibility.
- WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool: This free online tool from WebAIM helps you identify accessibility issues on your website.
- Accessibility Plugins: Many content management systems (CMS) offer accessibility plugins that can help you implement best practices.
- Consult with Accessibility Experts: Sometimes, expert guidance goes a long way. Consider working with accessibility specialists to ensure your website is truly inclusive.
Remember, accessibility is an ongoing process. As technology evolves, so do accessibility best practices. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The rewards of creating a welcoming digital space for everyone speak for themselves.
Here at Scout Digital, we’re always happy to chat about web accessibility solutions. Let’s work together to make the digital world a more inclusive place for all!
