Website accessibility is a hot topic in the world of web design.
The importance of website accessibility can’t be overstated, and yet it still goes overlooked by many designers. Website accessibility is not only a moral obligation but also an ethical responsibility as well, and companies like accessiBe are spearheading that movement. We must consider all types of customers when designing websites, including those with disabilities.
There are many benefits to website accessibility, which is why it’s so important that we make our websites as accessible as possible. Some of the benefits include:
1. Increased audience reach
A more accessible website means a greater audience reach, including those with disabilities who may not have been able to use your site before. This is a huge market that should not be ignored. For example, according to the World Bank, there are 1.3 billion people with disabilities in the world, and that number is only going to grow.
2. Improved usability
When a website is designed with accessibility in mind, it’s usually more usable for everyone. This is because accessible design considers different types of users, including those who use assistive technology.
3. Increased sales and revenue
Accessible websites often have increased sales and revenue, as they are more usable for everyone. For example, a study by the National Federation of the Blind found that businesses with accessible websites had a 34% higher revenue than those without accessible websites.
4. Improved customer satisfaction
Accessible websites often have higher customer satisfaction ratings, as they are more usable for everyone. In fact, a study by the Web Accessibility Initiative found that 80% of people with disabilities are more likely to be satisfied with an accessible website than a non-accessible website.
5. Increased brand awareness
When a company embraces website accessibility, it makes its website more usable for everyone. Still, it also sends a message that the company is inclusive and cares about all of its customers. This can lead to increased brand awareness and positive public perception.
6. Improved user experience
Making your website more accessible will also improve the user experience for everyone. This is because accessibility features make it easier for all users to navigate your website, regardless of their abilities. In fact, according to the World Bank, improving website accessibility can increase user satisfaction by up to 20%.
7. Compliance with regulations
Many countries have laws and regulations related to website accessibility, and failing to make your website accessible can lead to legal problems. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that businesses with websites make them accessible to people with disabilities.
8. Improved search engine rankings
Making your website more accessible can also improve your search engine rankings, as accessibility is one factor that Google considers when ranking websites. This is because accessible websites are typically more user-friendly and provide a better user experience.
9. Increased employee productivity
When a company makes its website more accessible, it often leads to increased employee productivity, as employees with disabilities can now use the website just like everyone else. For example, a study by Microsoft found that improving website accessibility led to a 33% increase in employee productivity.
10. Cost savings
Making your website more accessible can also lead to cost savings, as accessible websites are typically more user-friendly and easier to use. In addition, this means that employees will require less training, and there will be fewer customer service issues.
Final thoughts
Making your website more accessible is the right thing to do, but it also has many benefits for your business. By following the tips in this article, you can make your website more accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities.