Accessibility is currently a hot button issue in web development. Recent lawsuits have created awareness of an issue that was mostly overlooked in the past.
But now, it is important to know: Can everyone access information on your website? Can someone with impairments in vision, cognition, movement or hearing still utilize your web page?
If you want all potential customers to have access to your online presence, there are tools you can use to create an accessible website.
Here are five things you can do (or ask your web developer to do) to increase accessibility:
- Choose your template wisely – Content management systems have different templates that determine the look and layout of your website. You should select one that includes instructions in the documentation for how to make it accessible. You should also do this for plug-ins and other additions to the page.
- Examine your Alt Text – Alt Text is the written description attached to the visual elements of your website. A website that is easy to use for the visually impaired will have accurate descriptions in its alt text.
- Transcriptions – Any audio elements should include a full written script. And video should have captions.
- Use descriptive links – Instead of creating hyperlinks that say “Click Here” on your page, it is best to explain what you are linking to. That way, a screen reader (used by the visually impaired) can properly identify the link.
- Keep up with new developments – As technology evolves, the ability to make websites accessible will change too. Whenever you change something on your website, be sure to research how the change will affect accessibility.
This is a complex and technical issue. And it could have legal implications. If you need help making your website great for all of your potential customers, go to our Reach Out link.