Up-skilling is vital in the world of web, and we’re really putting in the effort at the moment to bring our team up to speed on accessibility.
We have always believed in making websites that everyone can use and enjoy, regardless of their abilities, however we’re going to stand up and acknowledge right now that not all of our sites have the level of acessibility they should.
Why? Well, I guess some ignorance on the importance, and then complexity of the guidelines of web accessibility has felt really overwhelming! At times a great design has been prioritised over accessible functionality.
You know we don’t gatekeep info here, so as I, Erica, am currently getting some 1:1 coaching around accessibility, so as I learn, I will be not only updating and implementing my new skills and knowledge into my current clients sites, but also sharing some of the details with you!
What does having an accessible website mean?
Making a website or mobile app accessible means making sure it can be used by as many people as possible. This includes those with: impaired vision, motor difficulties, cognitive impairments or learning disabilities.
It’s not a switch you can just flick, or a plugin you can install that will make your site accessible, it’s ensuring each element of the site in itself is able to be seen, heard or understood by your website visitors.
There shouldn’t really be a secondary reason to ensure your site is accessible besides wanting to ensure everyone of all abilities can use your site, but let’s explore some of the surprising benefits of making your website more accessible—benefits that go far beyond just being compliant with guidelines.
You Reach a Wider Audience
By taking steps to make your website more accessible, you’re opening the door for more people to interact with your business. It’s not just about ticking a box; it’s about creating an inviting space for everyone. The more people who can easily navigate and use your website, the more your audience can grow.
It Can Help Increase Traffic
Accessibility isn’t just good for people; it’s also great for search engines! Making your site accessible often involves improving things like titles, headings, and image descriptions, which can help with SEO. So, the more accessible your website is, the better chance you have of ranking higher in search engines—and that means more traffic coming your way.
You Build Greater Trust
When you invest in making your website accessible, you’re showing your audience that you care about their experience. It’s not just a gesture; it’s a commitment to inclusivity. This effort helps build trust with your visitors and shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to meet their needs.
You Can Avoid Legal Complications
In some countries, having an accessible website isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s required by law. Being proactive about making sure your website meets accessibility standards can help you avoid potential legal issues and demonstrates that you’re ahead of the game.
Your Existing Customers Will Benefit Too
It’s not just about attracting new visitors. Improving accessibility also enhances the experience for your existing customers. For example, adding transcriptions or closed captions to your videos can be helpful for people in noisy environments or for those who prefer reading over listening. It’s all about creating a better, more flexible experience for everyone who visits your site.
At Jeffrey Studios, we are always committed to ongoing training and staying up-to-date in this area because accessibility isn’t static—it’s evolving, just like the diversity of people visiting our websites. We are invested in ensuring that our client’s websites are welcoming, usable, and accessible to all.
Let’s have a chat about how we can help you make your website more accessible and inviting for everyone. We’re here to guide you through it, making the process as smooth and beneficial as possible.