Accessible websites with less work

Inaccessible web content means that people with disabilities are denied equal access to information. An inaccessible website can exclude people just as much as steps at an entrance to a physical location. Ensuring web accessibility for people with disabilities is a priority for the Department of Justice. In recent years, a multitude of services have moved online and people rely on websites like never before for all aspects of daily living. For example, accessing voting information, finding up-to-date health and safety resources, and looking up mass transit schedules and fare information increasingly depend on having access to websites.

People with disabilities navigate the web in a variety of ways. People who are blind may use screen readers, which are devices that speak the text that appears on a screen. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may use captioning. And people whose disabilities affect their ability to grasp and use a mouse may use voice recognition software to control their computers and other devices with verbal commands.

The ways that websites are designed and set up can create unnecessary barriers that make it difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to use websites, just as physical barriers like steps can prevent some people with disabilities from entering a building. These barriers on the web keep people with disabilities from accessing information and programs that businesses and state and local governments make available to the public online. But these barriers can be prevented or removed so that websites are accessible to people with disabilities.

The website accessibility text listed above is from the ada.gov website:

ADA website compliance is of utmost importance in today’s digital age, as it ensures that online content is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was established to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities and promote inclusivity. This act extends to the digital realm, necessitating that web pages and online platforms are designed and developed with accessibility in mind. By adhering to ADA compliance, organizations and businesses can accommodate users with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments, enabling them to navigate and interact with websites seamlessly. Not only does this improve the overall user experience for all visitors, but it also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and equal access to information for everyone. State and local governments, as well as private enterprises, must recognize the significance of ADA compliance to foster an inclusive digital environment that caters to the diverse needs of the population.

Ensuring ADA compliance / website accessibility standards on web pages has far-reaching benefits, beyond simply adhering to legal requirements. By using our website accessibility checker and making websites accessible, organizations can tap into a broader audience and expand their reach to individuals who might otherwise be excluded. Inclusive web design also enhances search engine optimization (SEO), as search engines prioritize websites with accessible features, boosting their visibility in search results. Additionally, ADA-compliant websites tend to be more user-friendly for all visitors, leading to higher user satisfaction and increased engagement. Non-compliance, on the other hand, can result in legal consequences and damage to a brand’s reputation. By prioritizing ADA website compliance, organizations can create an inclusive digital space that fosters diversity, demonstrates social responsibility, and upholds the accessibility requirements & principles of equal access for all individuals.

Our website accessibility solution ensures ADA compliance, Title II and Title III adherence, and provides assistance for individuals with disabilities. Our initial free accessibility evaluation will use our accessibility checker to identify issues.

Our website accessibility solution is designed to assist organizations in achieving ADA compliance, including Title II and Title III requirements, to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities. We provide a free website accessibility evaluation using our accessibility checker, which follows WCAG 2.1 standards to identify and address accessibility issues, making your website more inclusive and user-friendly for all.

ADA Compliance Matters. See important definitions and resources below.

WCAG Level A, AA and AAA

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) has developed website accessibility standards (guidelines). These web accessibility standards, guidelines are divided up into three levels: A, AA, and AAA. Each level builds on the previous level. So, in order to meet Level AA you must meet all of Level A and in order to meet Level AAA you must meet all of Level AA.

WCAG Level A: This level represents the base level of conformance. Level A criteria affect the broadest group with the most benefits and are essential. But, with the base level of support, some accessibility barriers will still exist which impact certain groups of users.

WCAG Level AA: This level is the most common target conformance level, often adopted in regulations or negotiated in legal settlements. The criteria at this level establish a level of accessibility which works for more users, including those who use assistive technology, like a screen reader.

WCAG Level AAA: This is the highest conformance level achievable, meaning it covers the success criteria of all three levels. Level AAA is not always applicable or realistic in all situations. Some organizations may choose to adopt specific criteria at this level.

Title ii: Title II of the ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all services, programs, and activities of state and local governments. State and local governments must take steps to ensure that their communications with people with disabilities are as effective as their communications with others.

Title iii: Title III prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities by businesses open to the public (also referred to as “public accommodations” under the ADA). The ADA requires that businesses open to the public provide full and equal enjoyment of their goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations to people with disabilities. Businesses open to the public must take steps to provide appropriate communication aids and services (often called “auxiliary aids and services”) where necessary to make sure they effectively communicate with individuals with disabilities. For example, communication aids and services can include interpreters, notetakers, captions, or assistive listening devices.

Citations/more resources:

Wikipedia: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

Wikipedia: Web accessibility

W3: Standards & Guidelines WCAG

ADA Guidance on Web Accessibility