5 Common Misconceptions About Website Accessibility

Common Misconceptions About Website Accessibility

The concept of web accessibility isn't new. Even though the Web Accessibility Initiative was established in 1997, it is still a largely overlooked and neglected part of web development 15 years later. Many people have deep-seated misconceptions regarding accessibility, which hinder them from making a concerted effort to include it on their websites. Let’s take a closer look at the 5 Common Misconceptions About Website Accessibility

Misconception #1: Accessibility is only for people with disabilities

One of the biggest misconceptions about website accessibility is that it is only for people with disabilities. This could not be further from the truth! Website accessibility benefits everyone, including people without disabilities. For example, a person who is blind can use a screen reader to access information on a website, while a person with a hearing impairment can use closed captioning to read the dialogue on a video. By making your website accessible, you are opening it up to a wider audience and improving the overall user experience for everyone.

Misconception #2: Making a website accessible is too expensive and time-consuming

Another common misconception is that making a website accessible is too expensive and time-consuming. However, this is not always the case. There are many affordable and easy-to-use tools available that can help make your website more accessible. And, if you do need help, many qualified professionals there assist you with making your website more accessible.

Misconception #3: Websites don't need to be accessible until they are redesigned

This is another common misconception about website accessibility. The truth is that websites should be made accessible from the outset, and not retroactively. Making a website accessible is a relatively easy process, and it is never too late to make your website more accessible.

Misconception #4: Accessibility is only for people with technical expertise

Another common misconception about website accessibility is that it requires expert technical knowledge. However, this is not always the case. There are many easy-to-use tools and resources available that can help you make your website more accessible without requiring any technical expertise. In addition, many qualified professionals there assist you with making your website more accessible if needed.

Misconception #05: Accessibility is a cost with no return on investment.

Many companies see accessibility as a means to an end, but they don't believe it's worth it. Web accessibility, on the other hand, isn't just something you should do; it also has several other benefits for your business. 

Here are some examples:

• Search engine optimization

• Reputation

• Reduced server load

• Increase website traffic and usage

• Increased revenue and lower costs

• Improved interoperability

• Improved Usability and UX

• Reduced site development and maintenance time

Why Website Accessibility is Important?

According to the World Health Organization, over a billion people – or about 15% of the world’s population – have some form of disability. This number is only going to grow as the population ages, so businesses need to make their websites accessible to everyone. By making your website accessible, you can open your business up to a whole new market of customers.

• Reach a larger market of potential customers

• Comply with accessibility regulations and standards

• Increase customer satisfaction and loyalty

• Improve your web presence and search engine rankings

Other Benefits of Website Accessibility to Businesses.

Accessibility isn't just about making sure that people with disabilities can use your website. It's also about making your website more user-friendly for everyone. Here are some other benefits of accessibility that businesses should consider:

• Website Will Perform Better

Accessible websites are easier to navigate and use, which means they're less likely to experience loading time issues and higher bounce rates. A recent study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that accessible websites loaded an average of almost three seconds faster than inaccessible websites.

• Attract More Customers

According to a study by WebAIM, 47 percent of all adults in the U.S. have a disability. That's a huge market that your business can't afford to ignore. Making your website accessible will help you reach this audience and attract more customers.

• Comply with Legal Requirements

In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make their websites accessible to people with disabilities. By making your website accessible, you're already meeting these legal requirements.

• Website Will Be More Robust

Accessible websites are more reliable and less likely to experience errors. This is because they're built using well-established web standards, which makes them easier to maintain and update.

• Website Will Look Better

Accessible websites are designed using good design principles, which means they look better than inaccessible websites. They also use more standard fonts and colors, making them easier to read and navigate.

Making your website accessible is the right thing to do, and it also makes good business sense. Accessible websites are faster, more reliable, and easier to use, which means they're less likely to experience loading time issues and higher bounce rates. In addition, accessible websites comply with legal requirements, attract more customers, look better, and are more robust. So make sure your website is accessible today!