As a website owner, ensuring web accessibility should be a top priority. ([Download our free Web Accessibility Checklist here]). This practice not only enhances user experience but also demonstrates your commitment towards inclusivity.
What is Web Accessibility?
Web accessibility refers to the practice of making your website accessible to all users, irrespective of their abilities or impairments. It involves adhering to design principles, which allow users to have a seamless experience on your website.
The Importance of Web Accessibility
Web accessibility enhances user-friendliness and understanding for all visitors, including those with:
- Blindness
- Low vision
- Learning disabilities
- Cognitive impairments
- Deafness
- Hearing loss
- Speech disabilities
- Physical disabilities
Making your site accessible not only complies with ethical and legal standards, but it also boosts brand loyalty and advocacy.
Who Manages Web Accessibility?
The Web Accessibility Initiative (WIP) of The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is responsible for publishing the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Legal Implications of Web Accessibility
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act enforces web accessibility. Even though web accessibility isn’t a formal law, there have been cases where companies faced lawsuits for not having an accessible website. Therefore, adherence to WCAG guidelines is essential.
Web Accessibility Standards
WCAG standards are categorized into four major principles:
- Perceivable – Users should be able to perceive or understand all information on your website.
- Operable – Websites should be easy to navigate and user-friendly.
- Understandable – All content on your website should be easily understood.
- Robust – The content should be easily interpreted by all visitors, including those using assistive technology such as screen readers.
Tools for Improving Website Accessibility
Several tools are available to test and improve your website’s accessibility. Some notable ones include:
- WAVE
- DYNO Mapper
- SortSite
- A11Y Color Contrast Accessibility Validator
Brilliant Examples of Web Accessibility
For inspiring examples of web accessibility, consider sites like W3C, The Cram Foundation, US Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, Healthmonix, Unilever, The Financial Gym, The White House, and Sandy Liang.
Improving web accessibility goes beyond legal and ethical considerations. It contributes to a positive user experience and fosters customer loyalty and advocacy. Use the mentioned tools and guidelines to create a more accessible website for all to enjoy.
Tags: #WebAccessibility #WCAG #WebsiteDesign #UserExperience
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in February 2021 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.
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[Reference Link](!https://blog.hubspot.com/website/web-accessibility)