In this digital age, a business's online presence can be a game-changer. Whether you're a small e-commerce start-up shipping handcrafted goods across the globe, or a colossal corporation mapping oil and gas developments, your website serves as your digital storefront. But here's a question we must all ask: Is your website accessible to everyone?
When we say 'accessible,' we mean inclusive of all, regardless of any physical or cognitive challenges an individual may have. This is not merely a considerate gesture—it's a legal requirement under the UK's Equality Act 2010.
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a great place to get to grips of what an acessible website looks and feels like. Organised by four main principle, you can find out more about them in our blog post, The 4 Core Principles of Web Accessibility: A Comprehensive Guide.
We pulled statistics from scope.sorg.uk:
- 16 million disabled people in the UK, that’s 1 in 4 people
- 45% of pension-age adults are disabled
- estimated 1 in 10 people have dyslexia
- 23% of working-age adults are disabled
- estimated 2 million people are living with sight loss
- 60% of people underestimate how many disabled people there actually are
There are many reasons why having an accessible website is good for everyone and business.
Expanded Customer Base
An accessible website opens your business to a wider audience, including the 16 million disabled people in the UK alone. But we think accessible, easier-to-use, websites work best for everyone. By removing digital barriers, you invite more potential customers to your doorstep.
SEO Benefits
Search engine algorithms love accessible websites. Implementing accessibility measures often aligns with SEO best practices, improving your site's search rankings. For example, adding alt text to images helps visually impaired users via screen readers, while also giving Google more context to index.
Reduced Legal Risk
With the Equality Act in force, businesses have faced legal implications for non-compliant websites. Prioritising accessibility now can help you avoid these costly pitfalls down the line.
Enhanced Brand Image
An accessible website signals your brand's commitment to inclusivity. You don't merely talk the talk; you walk the walk. This boosts your brand reputation and can lead to improved customer loyalty.
How NB can help
Now, you might be wondering how to ensure your website is accessible. That's where NB Communication comes in. We champion digital inclusion, assisting businesses from diverse sectors to build websites that everyone can use and enjoy.
Whether it's optimising text for screen readers, ensuring keyboard navigation for those unable to use a mouse, or improving colour contrasts for the visually impaired—we have you covered.
Our experienced team stays abreast of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to offer a seamless user experience for all.
Your website is the heart of your online operations. By prioritising accessibility, you ensure that no one's left behind, enhancing your reach and, in turn, your business growth. So, isn't it time we make the web a more inclusive place, one website at a time?