Business case for creating accessible websites
Creating accessible websites is not only a moral obligation but also a sound business decision.
Accessible website design has many benefits for businesses, including increased revenue, improved user experience, and enhanced brand reputation. By ensuring that all users, regardless of their abilities, can access and navigate a website, businesses can tap into a wider audience and create a more inclusive online presence.
Wider audience
Firstly, creating accessible websites can expand the audience, which can lead to increased traffic, engagement, and revenue. In fact, many companies claim that having an accessible website means the conversion rate is higher than with inaccessible websites. Jimit Mehta has written an in depth review on that.
Higher level of user-friendliness
Creating accessible websites can also improve the user experience for all, not just those with disabilities.
In our May blog post, we have shared how designing with web accessibility in mind can create a more user-friendly experience for everyone. This can lead to increased user satisfaction and engagement, as well as a higher level of dedication, which can translate into increased revenue and brand loyalty.
Brand elevation
Enhancing a company’s brand reputation is another benefit of accessible websites.
The introduction of Hong Kong’s Digital Accessibility Recognition Scheme (DARS) allows companies to be known as having websites that work hard to be accessible for everyone. Companies also have a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to be accessible and inclusive.
By demonstrating a good CSR programme and a commitment to accessibility, businesses can show that they care about the needs of all their users. This can build trust with users and help to attract new customers.
In addition, companies that prioritise accessibility are seen as socially responsible and are more likely to be viewed positively by customers.
Ensuring legal compliance
Accessibility is a legal requirement for websites in many countries. To name a few, international laws that require conformance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) include:
- European Union’s European Accessibility Act (EAA)
- United Kingdom’s Equality Act of 2010 for private sector, and The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018 for public sector
- South Korea’s Act on Welfare of Persons with Disabilities
By ensuring the website’s accessibility level, businesses can avoid legal issues, potential penalties, and any ongoing repercussions this may have on the company or business.
Promoting inclusiveness
Finally, creating accessible websites can contribute to a more inclusive society.
By designing websites that cater to accessibility points, businesses can help to break down barriers and create a more equal and open society. This can enhance a company’s reputation and help to attract socially conscious customers.
Summary
Creating accessible websites is, therefore, not only a moral obligation, but also a sound business decision.
By expanding the audience, improving the user experience, enhancing brand reputation, complying with legal requirements, and contributing to a more inclusive society, businesses can reap the benefits and rewards afforded by accessible website design.
It is crucial for designers and developers to prioritise accessibility in website design to create a more inclusive and accessible web experience, no matter your requirements.
Grayscale helps revamped your websites and adopted an accessibility based design which meets the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) requirements. Ready to factor web accessibility into your website to reach a wider audience? Talk to us today!