Although the internet belongs to everyone, it’s not accessible to all. According to the CDC, 61 million U.S adults live with a disability. Translation, 1 in 4 people may not be able to access your website or social platforms. And 1 in 4 people is not getting the opportunity to experience your brand because your website is not ADA-compliant.
I know what you’re thinking. Do I need to implement this into my website on top of worrying about running my business? The simple answer is yes. Especially considering the United States ADA Law, also known as the Americans with Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design. ADA-compliant eligibility requires a website to be accessible for all potential users, including those with disabilities, and that users have a decent user experience and can easily access information”. ADA regulations make having an accessible website a necessity. In fact, 85% of ADA lawsuits in federal and state courts in 2018 were filed against small and medium retail businesses. Despite the laws, there are many benefits to prioritizing accessibility in your business practices. Check out our compiled list below!
Ethical Responsibility
Ensuring web accessibility is deeper than dodging lawsuits. Business owners have an ethical responsibility to ensure inclusive customer experiences. This sentiment resonates with us here at Juniperus because we were founded on the mission to offer marketing services threaded in inclusivity. It is your responsibility as an entrepreneur to regulate your ethical design practices and to be sure you are not discriminating against users. Being ADA compliant not only protects your business legally, but it also protects your ethical reputation.
Grow Your Business
ADA-compliant websites not only expand your audience reach but also create a better user experience for ALL users. Most accessible websites ensure content follows the four fundamental principles that state sites should be: perceivable, understandable, operable, and robust. Features like closed captions for the hearing impaired or color ratios for a better visual experience are beneficial to every user.
Save Your Coins
Implementing ADA-compliant policies can also cost less to maintain in the long run. Though it may seem like an initial investment, making sure your website is ADA compliant can be great for your ROI. Intentional, accessible websites often use cleaner code, resulting in faster loading times, fewer errors, and improved SEO.
So, if you’re interested in ensuring your website meets ADA requirements but aren’t sure where to start or are looking for affordable solutions, reach out to us today. We would love to help you get started!
Amber Keating
Founder
Founder. Women’s advocate. Diversity expert. Amber Keating has worn many hats throughout her 32 years. To this day she credits her entrepreneurial spirit to her mom, who instilled in her that the worst thing that can happen is you land back where you started.
Amber started Juniperus to amplify the voices of people who are making the world a better place. She has already worked with the likes of Adobe, the Sierra Club, and numerous political campaigns—with many more exciting opportunities on the horizon.