The importance of accessibility in web design

"The power of the web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of disability is an essential aspect."

- Tim Berners-Lee, Inventor of the World Wide Web

The digitisation of various aspects of our lives makes things more convenient and easier for many of us. Mundane tasks such as booking doctor's appointments, applying for parking permits, and receiving bank statements have become more efficient than ever, empowering us to do more in less time.

However, this isn't the case for everyone. Certain groups, particularly elderly and disabled people, may find navigating websites to be a daunting task - often preventing them from accessing the information or services they need.

Approximately 16% of the world's population reports having a disability. However, a recent report of 1,300 UK public sector websites found an average of 9.1 accessibility errors per page.

This discrepancy highlights the ongoing challenge of creating digital content that is accessible to everyone. These errors can range from simple issues like poor colour contrast to more complex problems like missing alt text for images.

When websites are not accessible, 16% of the world's population is at a disadvantage in accessing critical information and participating fully in society. For businesses to create inclusive online spaces, they must consider web accessibility.

What is web accessibility?

Web accessibility is the practice of creating websites and online content that are equally accessible and usable for all individuals.

It ensures that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that disabled people can access, navigate and contribute to them. According to W3C, the following disabilities should be considered:

• auditory
• cognitive
• neurological
• physical
• speech
• visual

What are the accessibilty regulations?

The World Wide Consortium (W3C) has created the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to promote website accessibility. These guidelines offer web developers and designers a definitive framework and a set of standards to comply with.

What industries need to adhere to accessibility guidelines?

In September 2018, the UK government mandated that public sector websites and apps, including extranets and intranets, must comply with accessibility standards and publish an accessibility statement. The requirement was updated in 2020, and now requires adherence to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Level AA.

In the private sector, the Equality Act of 2010 requires businesses to make reasonable adjustments to their website to accomodate disabled people. While there is no legal obligation for private businesses to meet a specific level of WCAG conformance, ignoring accessibility may severley limit their audience reach and general user experience,

How can I make my website accessible?

1. Get to know WCAG

A basic understanding of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is crucial in ensuring that your digital content is accessible to all. It's equally important to have advocates for accessibility on your team who can promote an inclusive approach to digital content creation across your organisation. Ensuring your team is familiar with these guidelines will help you put your best foot forward.

2. Audit your website's accessibility

Get a specialist to evaluate your website's compliance with WCAG with an accessibility audit.

An accessibility audit involves a comprehensive review of your website to identify areas for improvement in line with WCAG standards and other content design best practices.

Once the audit is complete, the specialist will provide you with a recommendations report which you can use as a framework for making enhancements.

3. Keep your website's content up-to-date

A website that was accessible five years ago may not be accessible anymore. Therefore, it's essential to dedicate time to maintaining the content that is added to ensure that your website stays up-to-date with the latest standards.

As most websites are content-heavy, it's common to seek professional guidance from a content design specialist to help you navigate and tidy up your content library.

Accessible and inclusive content is a necessity for modern organisations
Ensuring that your website's content is accessible to all users is more than a legal obligation - it demonstrates your commitment to user-centric products and services.

In addition to promoting inclusivity, accessible website content can enhance the overall user experience, expand audience reach and demonstrate corporate social responsibility.

If you're unsure about the accessibility of your website, our Content Specialists are available to provide guidance and expertise. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.