Last Updated on: 30th October 2024, 09:11 am
Google processes an estimated 99,000 searches every second globally. In such a Google-driven world, it’s no surprise that a website is often the first point of contact between a business and its customers. But what if your website isn’t accessible to everyone? For small businesses, ensuring website accessibility isn’t just about ethical considerations; it’s also crucial in reaching a wider audience and driving business growth.
Today, with insight from web design agency Full Stack Industries, we will explore the importance of accessibility in website design and learn ways to ensure accessibility for everyone.
What is Website Accessibility?
Website accessibility is designing and developing a website where people with diverse needs can use their needs to explore websites effectively. This could include people with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. Accessible websites provide equal access to information and functionality for all users, regardless of their abilities.
Why is Accessibility Important?
Internet accessibility is essential in 2024 and will continue to be moving forward. The internet has come a long way since its inception in the nineties, constantly developing towards a more inclusive internet. However, aside from the fact that inclusivity is an essential part of a modern digital presence, here is why internet accessibility is important:
Improve User Experience
Accessible websites are generally more manageable for everyone, not just those with disabilities. Straightforward navigation, well-structured content, and considered design benefit all users, leading to a more positive experience with increased engagement.
Drive SEO
Many accessibility best practices align with search engine optimisation (SEO) principles. For example, using descriptive alt text for images helps screen reader users and provides context for search engines, enabling your website to rank for more relevant keywords.
Supporting a Better Internet
Demonstrating a commitment to accessibility shows that you value inclusivity and care about everyone’s needs. It’s a great way to vouch for accessibility in website design and encourage others to implement similar standards so that the internet becomes a place for everyone.
How to Improve Website Accessibility
Here are some critical considerations for making your website more accessible:
- Provide alternative text for images: This allows screen readers to describe images to visually impaired users.
- Use sufficient colour contrast: Ensure enough contrast between text and background colours for people with low vision.
- Use clear and simple language: Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures to make your content easy to understand for people with cognitive disabilities.
- Ensure keyboard accessibility: All website functionality should be accessible using the keyboard for those who cannot use a mouse.
- Use headings and subheadings to structure content: This helps users with screen readers navigate your website easily.
- Provide captions and transcripts for videos: This makes multimedia content accessible to people with hearing impairments.
Finding Experts in Accessible Web Design
“At Full Stack Industries, we believe that everyone should have equal access to information and online experiences,” says Sam, Founder of Full Stack Industries. “We are committed to creating websites that are visually appealing, functional and accessible to users of all abilities. We consider accessibility at every stage of the design and development process to ensure that our client’s websites are simultaneously inclusive, user-friendly and effective.”
Final Thoughts
Website accessibility is not a flash in the pan; it’s fundamental to high-quality, forward-thinking, and considered web design. By prioritising accessibility, small businesses can create a more inclusive online experience, expand their reach, and enhance their brand reputation.
Creating an accessible website is an achievable goal for businesses of all sizes with the help of experienced web designers like Full Stack Industries.
