Web accessibility

Is your website excluding visitors?

In the digital age, your website is your storefront, your communication hub, and often the first impression you make. But here’s a question to ponder: is it open to everyone? Web accessibility isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity, especially here in the UK. Let’s dive into why, and how Redcentaur can help you open your digital doors wide.

Why web accessibility matters in the UK

The UK is home to millions of people with disabilities. We’re talking about individuals with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. And guess what? Many of them are online, trying to access services, purchase products, and engage with content – just like everyone else. Ignoring web accessibility means potentially excluding a significant portion of the population. That’s not just bad ethics; it’s bad business. While some of impairments might be temporary, lasting only a few days, weeks, or months; the impact of how your business deals with web accessibility lasts much longer. 

Plus, there’s the legal bit. The Equality Act, 2010 places a responsibility on businesses to ensure their services are accessible to people with disabilities. While it doesn’t explicitly mention websites, case law is increasingly interpreting it to include online services. In other words, accessible web design isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s becoming a ‘must-have’. The interpretation of legal requirements tends to be compliance with WCAG (the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to Level AA.

The business case for web accessibility: it’s not just about compliance

Okay, so we’ve established the ethical and legal reasons. But let’s talk pounds and pence. What’s the business case for web accessibility?

• Expanded market reach: 
  By making your website accessible, you’re opening it up to a larger audience. More visitors mean more potential customers, more engagement, and ultimately, more revenue. Worldwide upto 16% of the population have a disability in their lifetime; in the developed world (including the UK) this rises to as many as 28% of the population.
• Improved SEO:
  Usability and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) go hand in hand. Inclusive websites tend to have cleaner code, better structure, and more relevant content—all things that search engines love and that make your site faster. So, you’ll not only be helping people, but you’ll also be boosting your search rankings, and improving your website’s mobile performance. It’s a win-win!
• Enhanced user experience (UX):
  Many web accessibility features, like clear navigation, logical structure, and alternative text for images, actually improve the user experience for everyone. Think about it: a website that’s easy to use for someone with a disability is likely to be easy to use for everyone else too.
• Positive brand image:
  In today’s socially conscious world, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity can significantly enhance your brand’s reputation. Customers appreciate businesses that care about all their users.
• Reduced legal risks:
  As mentioned earlier, neglecting web accessibility can expose your business to legal challenges. While we don’t go heavy on the risk-factor marketing; it’s true to say that you can save yourself a lot of headaches and money down the line by investing in web accessibility now.

Still not convinced? Then read the excellent article The compelling case for website accessibility. That article provides a detailed breakdown of the whole business case for implementing design improvements that benefit all users. It includes statistical data as well as arguments from leading experts in the digital field.

How Redcentaur can help

Where do you start? What do you need to do? Simple quick-wins alone won’t make your website compliant, although they would be a good starting point. You probably don’t have the time (or the inclination) to read and understand the WCAG standard to understand what to do for compliance.

That’s where we come in. At Redcentaur, we understand that web accessibility can seem daunting. We offer a comprehensive suite of web accessibility services designed to make your website compliant, user-friendly, and truly inclusive.

Our services include:

• Web accessibility audits: we’ll thoroughly evaluate your website to identify any barriers to inclusion.
• Accessible design and development: we can create or redesign your website with improved compliance baked in from the start.
• Digital inclusion training: we can empower your team with the knowledge and skills to maintain compliance and inclusion once your website is live.
• Ongoing support: we can be there to provide continuous support and ensure your website remains accessible as it evolves, with our maintenance services.

We’re passionate about creating a web that’s accessible to everyone. And we believe that web accessibility isn’t just a requirement; it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to reach more people, improve your website, and strengthen your brand.

Ready to make your website accessible?

Don’t let your website be the one that’s left behind. Take the first step towards a more inclusive digital presence. Contact us today and let’s discuss how Redcentaur can help you unlock the power of web accessibility.