The importance of accessible websites: ensuring equal access and unlocking business benefits

ADA compliance goes beyond legal obligations; it’s about creating an inclusive digital environment that provides equal access to all individuals, regardless of disabilities. Embracing ADA compliance not only ensures accessibility but also brings numerous benefits for businesses.

Ensuring Equal Access

ADA compliance is vital for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the digital world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 billion people worldwide have some form of disability. That represents 1 in 6 of us, a number that’s too large to ignore. By removing barriers to access, businesses allow everyone to navigate websites, access information, and engage with digital content independently.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction

By prioritizing ADA compliance, businesses demonstrate a commitment to customer satisfaction. A study by the Click-Away Pound Survey found that 71% of disabled customers with access needs would leave a website that is difficult to use. Accessible websites and digital content cater to the diverse needs of all users, providing a seamless experience.

Improved Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

ADA compliance can positively impact a website’s SEO performance. Search engines, like Google, value accessible websites that provide a good user experience for all users. By implementing ADA compliance measures, such as proper heading structure and alternative text for images, businesses improve their website’s visibility in search engine results, driving more organic traffic. Take a look at what SEO elements are related to accessibility in our previous blog post.

Increased Market Reach

ADA compliance opens doors to a larger customer base. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 26% of the U.S. population has a disability. By ensuring accessibility, businesses tap into this underserved audience, expanding their reach and attracting new customers. Inclusive design and accessible features create a competitive advantage and set businesses apart in the market.

Positive Brand Image and Reputation

ADA compliance reflects a company’s commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility. A survey conducted by New York-based Zeno Group found that 94% of consumers are more likely to support brands that prioritize inclusivity and diversity. By prioritizing accessibility, businesses build a positive brand image and enhance their reputation.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Complying with ADA regulations helps businesses avoid legal risks and potential lawsuits. The number of website accessibility-related lawsuits continues to rise, with over 11,400 cases filed in federal courts in 2021 alone, according to Seyfarth’s ADA Title III News & Insights. By proactively embracing ADA compliance, businesses demonstrate their adherence to legal obligations and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all users.

Tips for an ADA-complaint website

My best tip for ensuring ADA-compliant web design is to prioritize accessibility from the very beginning of the design process. By incorporating inclusive design principles, such as providing clear navigation, using alt text for images, and ensuring proper color contrast, you can create a website that is accessible to all users. Engaging with accessibility experts and conducting thorough testing throughout the development process will help identify and address any potential barriers, resulting in a website that provides equal access and a positive user experience for individuals with disabilities.

Check out our previous blog post on some practical tips to make your website accessible to learn more.