We all know a killer website is crucial. But are you overlooking a key ingredient that could make your site truly stand out? I’m talking about website accessibility.
Going beyond just ticking boxes for compliance, accessibility is about making your online content easily usable for everyone, including people with disabilities. Think of it as good design that benefits all your visitors.
Why Prioritize Accessibility?
Here’s the thing:
- It’s the right thing to do. Over a billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. By making your website accessible, you create an inclusive online experience that respects everyone.
- It boosts your brand image. Consumers today care about social responsibility. Showcasing your commitment to inclusivity can significantly enhance your brand reputation and build trust with your audience.
- It improves SEO. Search engines prioritize websites that offer a good user experience for all. Accessible websites tend to have cleaner code and better navigation, which search engines love.
- It expands your market reach. Why limit yourself? An accessible website opens your doors to a wider audience, potentially increasing your customer base and revenue.
Simple Steps Towards an Accessible Website
Making your website accessible doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are a few key things to consider:
- Provide text alternatives for images. Use descriptive alt text for all images so that screen readers can convey the information to visually impaired users.
- Ensure sufficient color contrast. Make sure there’s enough contrast between your text and background colors for people with low vision.
- Use clear and simple language. Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures.
- Design for keyboard navigation. Many users rely on keyboards to navigate websites. Ensure all functionalities are accessible through keyboard input.
Need help getting started?
SHIFTinc can help you build an inclusive and accessible website that resonates with all audiences. Contact us today for a free consultation.