As more and more people adopt assistive technologies like screen readers, designers need to create websites and apps that are accessible to everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the benefits of accessible design.
What is Accessible Design?
Accessible design is about making sure that everyone can use and enjoy your website or app, regardless of their ability or disability. By making your site accessible, you’re not only doing the right thing – but you’re also opening up your site to a whole new audience. Before implementing and using you need to check accessible design examples.
There are lots of benefits to creating an accessible site:
You’re following the law: In many countries, including the US and the UK, there are laws in place that require websites to be accessible to people with disabilities. If you’re not following these guidelines, you could be liable for damages.
It’s good for business: An accessible site is good for business. Not only will you be able to reach a larger audience, but you’ll also be perceived as a company that cares about its customers.
It’s the right thing to do: Accessible design is simply the right thing to do. By excluding people with disabilities, you’re denying them the same opportunities and experiences that everyone else enjoys.
The Benefits of Accessible Design
There are many benefits to accessible design, and more and more organizations are beginning to see the value in making their products and services accessible to everyone. Here are just a few of the benefits of accessible design:
1. Improved user experience for everyone
When products and services are designed with accessibility in mind, it can improve the user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities. For example, features like alt text for images or captions for videos can be beneficial for all users, not just those who are visually impaired.
2. Increased customer base
When you make your products and services accessible to people with disabilities, you open up your potential customer base significantly. In the United States alone, there are over 56 million people with disabilities, and many of them are active consumers.
3. Positive brand image
Making your products and services accessible sends a strong message that your company cares about inclusion and diversity. This can help improve your brand image and reputation, both with customers and in the larger community.
4. Legal compliance
In many cases, accessible design is required by law. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make their facilities accessible to people with disabilities. If
How to Implement Accessible Design
There are many benefits to implementing accessible design into your website or application. Not only does it make your site more user-friendly for those with disabilities, but it can also improve your SEO and help you reach a wider audience. Here are some tips on how to get started with accessible design:
- Use clear and concise language
When writing content for your site, be sure to use clear and concise language. This will make it easier for everyone to understand, including those using screen readers. - Optimize your images
All images on your site should have alternative text (alt text) that describes the image. This is important for users who are unable to see the images. - Use color carefully
Some users may have difficulty seeing certain colors, so it’s important to use them sparingly and make sure there is enough contrast between the foreground and background colors. - Structure your content well
Breaking up your content into short paragraphs and using bullet points can help make it more accessible. This makes it easier to scan and find the information they need.
Conclusion
Good design is good for business. That’s why an increasing number of companies are committing to accessible design. By making their products and services accessible to people with disabilities, they’re not only opening up new markets, they’re also improving the user experience for everyone. If you’re not sure where to start, there are a number of resources available to help you make your products and services more accessible.
