Having an inclusive and accessible online domain is a smart move for any entrepreneurial venture. With over a billion people who are disabled and have to live with significant difficulties, organizations are able to tap into a sizable demographic, improve their image, and comply with WCAG and ADA guidelines in the process.
Despite its importance, not many websites have accessibility features. As a result, they miss out on opportunities to attract new customers and generate more sales. If you want to draw in an audience and ensure that users who suffer from conditions that limit their activities, senses, or movements are able to access your site in the same way that many others can, follow these tips for building an accessible website.
- Add alternative text to images
They say that pictures are worth thousands of words, but these visual elements can be a barrier for people who suffer from impaired vision. Because of this, they often have to rely on an assistive technology called screen readers, which are essentially programs that can read out the text for users. By adding alt text to your images, you’ll be able to describe the pictures on your website to the disabled. But make sure that the alternative text describes the images as clearly as possible. It will make a difference.
- Give users the option of resizing the font
Those who have low vision may struggle to read the text if the font size is too small. Due to this, they need to use specific settings when they browse through websites. Offering alternative style sheets with features that allow them to enlarge font size without breaking the layout of the page will make it easier for them to digest the content. One option to consider is accessiBe, as it offers an application that enables visitors to make adjustments to the design to suit their needs better. For more information, read this accessiBe WordPress review.
- Include keyboard navigation
For those with mobility problems or a visual impairment, navigation can be a challenge. And it pays to have keyboard navigation if they’re unable to use the mouse to browse through the website. Ensure that the differently-abled can gain access to every interactive element of your online domain, from the URLs and drop-down menus to CTAs and dialog boxes. Alternatively, it’s possible to use buttons, form fields, and HTML links to keep everything keyboard-accessible.
- Make multimedia accessible
The multimedia elements of a website play a vital role in engaging users. However, since those who are disabled can’t access these kinds of content like most people, you’ll need to find ways to help them understand the material better. For starters, including audio descriptions help describe the visual elements so those who are blind can understand what’s happening. For those with auditory problems, text captions will keep them engaged with the media.
Conclusion
Having an accessible site isn’t only a smart business decision, but the morally correct thing. Apart from helping an organization grow its customer base, it also enables those with disabilities to access information. So make sure that your website provides an inclusive environment to those that need it.
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/hand-keyboard-typing-laptop-4571730/