The problem with accessibility
With over 1 billion people worldwide living with a disability and with about 252,000 new websites being created daily it should come as no surprise that accessibility is becoming a priority for better digital experiences. So much so, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a final rule under Title II of the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) in April 2024, creating specific requirements for state and local governments to ensure their web content and mobile apps are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
But first, what is web accessibility?
Just like how sidewalks have curb ramps for individuals with disabilities to help assist them to get on and use the sidewalk–it is the same when digital content like websites and applications have tools and practices in place to aid people with disabilities to interact with their interface effectively. Impairments can range from visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive and neurological disability which organizations should be accommodate for.
As previously stated, when the US Department of Justice enforced more emphasis for businesses to be compliant, they created guidelines. The WCAG 2.1 Level AA is what that guideline is for user accommodation, which is:
1. Perceivable – Information Must Be Available to All Users
- Provide alt text for images so screen readers can describe them.
- Use high color contrast between text and background for readability.
- Offer captions and transcripts for videos and audio content.
- Ensure text is resizable without breaking the layout.
2. Operable – All Users Must Be Able to Navigate
- Operable – All Users Must Be Able to Navigate Make all website functions accessible via keyboard navigation (no mouse required).
- Allow users to pause, stop, or adjust moving content (e.g., auto-scrolling banners).
- Avoid flashing content that could trigger seizures (no more than three flashes per second).
- Ensure clear, consistent navigation throughout the website.
3. Understandable – Content Must Be Easy to Use
- Use clear, simple language that is easy to understand.
- Ensure form fields have descriptive labels and error messages.
- Maintain consistent layout and predictable interactions.
4. Robust – Content Must Work on Assistive Technologies
- Use proper HTML structure so screen readers can interpret content correctly.
- Ensure websites function on different devices, browsers, and assistive technologies.
- Regularly test for accessibility issues using tools like WAVE or AXE.
The DOJ has required state and local governments to meet specific web and mobile accessibility requirements by 2026. This signals stronger enforcement for both government and private businesses to comply with accessibility standards.
Why ADA compliance matters for your business
Web accessibility isn’t just about inclusivity—it’s also a legal requirement that protects businesses from lawsuits and expands customer reach. Here’s why compliance is so important:
1. Avoid legal risks
Non-compliance can lead to lawsuits under Title III of the ADA. Many businesses have faced costly settlements due to inaccessible websites.
In fact, according to Ecomback.com, there had been 3,188 lawsuits reported against organizations that failed to be compliant. Accessible.com has stated that from those lawsuits won, the range of settlements won were from 5,000 and 20,000 with some small businesses settling for less than $5,000. However, in certain cases, settlements can reach several hundred thousand dollars, especially if the violations are severe or involve larger organizations.
2. Improve SEO & Performance
Accessible websites rank higher in search engines and provide a better user experience for all users
This is because search engines, like Google, reward sites that provide accessibility features because it offers a good experience for users. For example, something as simple as clear headings, providing captions, and alt text, makes it easy for persons with disabilities to engage with websites, thus decreasing bounce rates–therefore better website ranking.
3. Increase Revenue & Customer Base
Over 1 billion people worldwide live with disabilities, representing a huge potential market. According to Forbes.com, over 95% of the world’s top 1 million websites failed to comply with the Web and Content Accessibility Guidelines.This troubling statistic has resulted in 68% of individuals with disabilities feeling overlooked by retailers and manufacturers. Furthermore, it has led to 72% of them abandoning purchases simply because companies fail to prioritize accessible features for their users. Imagine the impact if companies fully embraced accessibility – they could not only foster inclusion but also see a significant boost in conversion rates.
4. Boost Brand Reputation and Moral Imperative
Companies known for inclusivity gain trust and loyalty from diverse audiences because it’s the right thing to do.
Lastly, when companies design for one, they design for all. This outlook of inclusivity creates lasting trust from users because they feel valued and acknowledged. Organizations should prioritize the needs of all their users, as doing so is both socially responsible and ethically right. Because if someone helped you and kept you in mind, wouldn’t you appreciate that?
What Jago can do for you
At Jago, we prioritize your users’ needs and aim to enhance their experience. Through comprehensive web and mobile audits, we assess your digital presence to ensure it aligns with the specific requirements of your business. This allows you to confidently create a seamless digital experience for your users. If you or your organization have additional accessibility needs, we are here to listen and provide industry-standard tools and best practices to ensure your company remains up to date and fully optimized.
Don’t let accessibility barriers hold your business back.
Contact us today for an accessibility audit