Accessibility Tools and Compliance
What does accessibility look like?
Many of us live our lives online and take for granted the ease of access we have, but for 20% of the population, navigating the web is much more difficult. Encountering websites that are not compatible with screen readers, lack proper color contrast, or display flashy animations can be a dead end for many users. However, it has become a force of habit for users with disabilities to look for widgets on sites that will make them more accessible to them. You can find such a widget on this website, down in the bottom left hand corner. Abstract can enroll your website in such a service and integrate the widget to your site with just a few miniscule edits.
Why is web accessibility so important?
Making the internet accessible is about leveling the playing field for 20% of the world's population. The internet has become the most important innovation of our lifetime. Making it inclusive is the most significant step towards achieving a society that prioritizes the inclusion of everyone, regardless of abilities. It also ensures you're never losing a prospective client's business, and giving your website a huge advantage over inaccessible websites.
What is my liability?
Since the Supreme Court ruled that websites were considered public spaces, and thus must be ADA compliant, the number of compliance lawsuits and settlements has been on a steady rise. Many litigators specialize in identifying sites that fail to uphold the proper standards, and will pursue cases against site-owners by taking advantage of their lack of awareness. As part of your enrollment in an accessibility solution, your access policies will be automatically updated, maintained, and adjusted to fit current standards. Additionally, you are afforded litigation consultation, regular reporting, and site audits to ensure you are well informed and protected.
What are the benefits?
- Expand your audience reach: Tap into the 20% of the population that could be locked out of your business.
- Increase organic traffic and web performance: Properly formatted structure and image descriptions make your website SEO-optimized, driving increased traffic and engagement.
- Enhance the user experience for all visitors: Accessible websites are designed in a way that reduces confusion and provides a more seamless UX for all users.
- Improve your brand reputation: An accessible website demonstrates your commitment to inclusion and social responsibility.
- Mitigate legal risk: Compliance with web accessibility isn’t optional - it’s a legal requirement and reduces the risk of costly litigation for non-compliance.
Increase your accessibility and reduce your liability for as little as $490/year.
Ask about our free accessibility audit, read more on our blog, or get enrolled with accessiBe today!