Having a strong online presence is key these days for any business to stay successful. Though you can easily create a website that delivers crucial information to your customers, you need to think beyond basic content when it comes to the user experience. More often than not, companies lack the important resource of an accessible website. When your site functions well for all visitors in an equal way, it can totally transform your ability to connect with a customer and create a lasting business relationship. Use these tips to get your process started.
Consider the Legal Ramifications
While your main goal with accessibility should always be to help those who have trouble interpreting resources on the internet, it can also be helpful to consider the legal side of things. There are many laws in place dictating that businesses involved in specific industries must adhere to. For example, Section 508 is a rule for federal agencies that states all people have the right to equal access to tech. Though independent businesses don’t need to follow the same rules as federal agencies, it can be a great framework to build a plan from.
Start With Simple Steps
Though you might assume a lot of work is involved in making an accessible website, you would be wrong. In fact, the actions that are most helpful to those with disabilities are usually incredibly easy. Adding captions to any videos you create and share online, for example, is the least you can do for those who are deaf or hearing impaired. There are also similarly simply steps you can take to create a site that provides easier access to those who are blind or have difficulty seeing. Once the ball is rolling, you’ll see how easy it is to help.
Design Matters
The design you select for your site is about a lot more than aesthetics. When your website includes flashing or repeating images, it may seem tacky or gaudy to some. To those susceptible to seizures, however, it can trigger a serious episode. By being conscious of how design choices can hurt or hinder consumers with particular conditions, you can make a difference in your site’s appeal. Choosing the right contrast for colors can be another way to guarantee that those with colorblindness can always read text and see images presented on your web assets.
Taking the time to work on making a more accessible website can have some serious benefits for your business. Doing what’s best for all takes time, but it will help you do what’s right for those in need of a bit of assistance.