WCAG Compliance Archives- Page 3 of 5/Category

POURing Effort into Web Accessibility
Creating an inclusive digital world isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. For many people, accessing information online isn’t as simple as opening a website and scrolling through content. Visual impairments, mobility challenges, cognitive disabilities, and other barriers can make navigating the internet difficult without proper accommodations. That’s where the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) come in.

WCAG provides a roadmap for making web content accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities. Central to these guidelines are four foundational principles known by the acronym POUR: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. In this article, we’ll explore what POUR means, why it’s important, and how you can apply these principles to create a more accessible user experience.

What Is POUR?

At the heart of WCAG are the four foundational principles known as POUR: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. These principles serve as the pillars of accessible design, guiding developers and designers to create web experiences that accommodate a wide range of abilities and preferences.

POUR ensures that digital content is not only accessible but also functional and user-friendly. Adhering to these principles helps remove barriers and allows everyone—regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities—to engage with web content fully and independently.

In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of the POUR principles, their practical applications, and how they make web content more inclusive.

Perceivable: Making Content Accessible to the Senses

The principle of perceivability focuses on ensuring that all users can access and process the information presented on a website. This means content must be adaptable to a variety of sensory modalities, such as vision, hearing, or touch. Without perceivable content, users with sensory disabilities may be completely excluded from accessing critical information.

What Does Perceivable Mean in Practice?
1. Text Alternatives for Non-Text Content: Every image, icon, and multimedia element must include a text equivalent, such as alt text for images or transcripts for audio content. For example, if a website features a graph, it should include a detailed description of the data for visually impaired users.
2. Captions and Audio Descriptions: Videos should have captions for users who are deaf or hard of hearing and audio descriptions for users who are blind, ensuring everyone can understand the content.
3. Readable Text Content: Font size, color contrast, and spacing should make text readable for users with visual impairments or dyslexia. For instance, using a high-contrast color scheme helps users with low vision differentiate between text and background.
Common Mistakes That Violate Perceivable Standards
- Using images without alt text or vague descriptions like “image123.jpg.”
- Not adding captions to video content makes it difficult for people with hearing impairments to follow along.
- Designing web content that relies heavily on color to convey information can be problematic for color-blind users.
Operable: Ensuring Users Can Navigate and Interact

Operability is about giving users the ability to interact with and navigate a website effectively. Websites should cater to diverse input methods, including keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and assistive technologies like screen readers or sip-and-puff devices.

What Does Operable Mean in Practice?
1. Keyboard Accessibility: All interactive elements—such as buttons, forms, and menus—must be usable via a keyboard. For example, users should be able to navigate a website using the Tab key to move between elements and the Enter key to select options.
2. Adjustable Time Limits: Users must be given enough time to complete tasks like filling out forms. If a time limit is necessary, users should have the option to extend it or pause the timer.
3. Avoiding Traps: Design interactive elements like pop-ups or carousels to ensure users don’t become “trapped.” For example, make it easy for keyboard users to close a pop-up.
Common Mistakes That Violate Operable Standards
- Creating drop-down menus or interactive elements that are difficult to navigate with a keyboard.
- Designing forms that reset if not completed within a set time frustrates users who may need extra time.
- Using auto-scrolling content that cannot be paused or stopped.
Understandable: Keeping Content Clear and Predictable

The principle of understandability ensures that users can easily comprehend both the information and the functionality of a website. Content should be presented in a logical, consistent, and intuitive manner.

What Does Understandable Mean in Practice?
1. Plain Language: Avoid jargon and use simple, clear language. For example, instead of saying, “Click here to access the comprehensive compendium of resources,” simply say, “Click here to access the resource guide.”
2. Predictable Interactions: Elements like navigation menus and buttons should behave consistently throughout the site. For example, a menu that expands when clicked should work the same way on every page.
3. Error Feedback and Recovery: Forms and other interactive elements should provide clear feedback when users make errors. For instance, if a user forgets to fill out a required field in a form, the website should provide an error message that explains what’s missing and how to correct it.
Common Mistakes That Violate Understandable Standards
- Using complicated words or phrases without explanations makes it hard for users to comprehend the content.
- Having links or buttons that perform unexpected actions confuses the user.
- Need to highlight input errors clearly or explain how to fix them.
Robust: Ensuring Compatibility with Current and Future Technologies

Robustness focuses on ensuring that websites are compatible with a wide range of technologies, including assistive devices. This principle ensures content remains accessible even as technology evolves.

What Does Robust Mean in Practice?
1. Standards-Compliant Code: Using clean, valid HTML and CSS ensures that web content is compatible with different browsers and assistive technologies. For example, screen readers can more easily interpret properly coded content.
2. Accessible ARIA Attributes: ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) roles and properties enhance dynamic content and make it usable for assistive technologies. For example, adding aria-live attributes to alerts ensures screen readers announce changes in real time.
3. Cross-Device Testing: Websites should be tested on various devices, operating systems, and browsers to ensure compatibility.
Common Mistakes That Violate Robust Standards
- Using outdated or non-standard HTML code can break some browsers or assistive technologies.
- Labeling form elements properly makes it easier for screen readers to convey relevant information to the user.
Bringing POUR Principles Together

While each POUR principle addresses a specific aspect of accessibility, they work together to create a seamless and inclusive user experience. Let’s look at an example of how all four principles might be applied:

Example: An E-Commerce Website
1. Perceivable: Images of products include descriptive alt text, and videos showcasing features have captions and audio descriptions.
2. Operable: Users can navigate the site with a keyboard and use the Tab key to add items to their cart.
3. Understandable: The checkout process uses plain language and provides clear instructions for completing forms.
4. Robust: The site is tested with assistive technologies like screen readers and works smoothly on mobile devices.
By aligning with all four POUR principles, the website ensures that users of all abilities can browse, shop, and complete their purchases effortlessly.

Putting POUR into Practice

Applying the POUR principles isn’t just about avoiding mistakes; it’s about creating a truly inclusive web experience. Here’s how you can start:
1. Audit Your Site: Conduct an accessibility review to identify areas where your site falls short of POUR.
2. Incorporate accessibility from the Start: Build POUR into your web development and design process rather than trying to retrofit accessibility later.
3. Test with Real Users: Engage users with disabilities to test your site and provide feedback.
By focusing on POUR, you not only improve accessibility but also enhance usability for all visitors, creating a better overall user experience.

POURing Effort into Accessibility

The four principles of WCAG—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust—offer a solid foundation for building an accessible web. These principles are not just guidelines; they represent a commitment to inclusivity and respect for all users.

Accessibility isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing effort to create a web that works for everyone. By applying POUR to your digital content, you’re taking meaningful steps toward a more inclusive future. Start today by reviewing your site, learning from accessibility experts, and embracing WCAG principles to make a difference in the lives of your users.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward making your website ADA-compliant and ensuring accessibility for all, schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. Our team of experts will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you create a web experience that’s inclusive, compliant, and user-friendly. Don’t wait—start building a more accessible digital presence today.
Greg McNeil

November 18, 2024

WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, WCAG, WCAG conformance, Website Accessibility
WCAG Conformance Levels: How High Should You Aim?
When you’re building a website, it’s easy to get caught up in the details of design, functionality, and making everything look just right. But what about accessibility? That’s where the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) come in. Think of WCAG as your go-to checklist for making sure your website is open and usable for everyone, including people with disabilities.

Accessibility isn’t just a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s essential. Whether you’re trying to avoid lawsuits, comply with laws like the ADA, or make your site more welcoming, understanding WCAG conformance levels can help you figure out how high you should aim. Let’s break down the basics, explore the three levels—A, AA, and AAA—and help you find the sweet spot for your website.

What is WCAG?

WCAG stands for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, but don’t let the formal name intimidate you. These guidelines are basically a roadmap for making websites, apps, and digital content work for everyone—whether someone has a disability or not. Developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), WCAG focuses on four key principles: making content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR). Think of it as a checklist to ensure your site is usable for as many people as possible.

And it’s not just for developers! WCAG applies to everyone involved in building a website—from designers to writers—because accessibility goes beyond code. Whether it’s adding captions to videos, ensuring color contrast, or simplifying navigation, these small changes can make a huge difference in how people experience your site. At its core, WCAG is about creating a better internet for everyone.

Why Should You Care About WCAG Conformance?

So, why should WCAG be on your radar? For starters, it’s about reaching more people. Accessibility isn’t just for those with disabilities—it benefits everyone. Captions help folks watching a video on mute, high contrast is great for users in bright sunlight, and clear navigation makes life easier for anyone trying to find what they need. In other words, an accessible website is just a better website.

Then there’s the legal side of things. If you’re in the U.S., laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) expect your site to meet certain accessibility standards, and WCAG is the go-to guide for that. Ignoring these guidelines could land you in hot water with lawsuits or fines—and let’s face it, no one wants that kind of stress.

But it’s not just about avoiding trouble. Prioritizing accessibility can actually boost your brand, build trust, and improve your site’s performance overall. Making your website accessible shows your users you care, and that can set you apart in a big way.

Breaking Down the WCAG Conformance Levels

WCAG isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. It’s divided into three levels—A, AA, and AAA—each with its own set of requirements. Here’s what you need to know about each one:

Level A: Covering the Basics

Level A is like the starter pack for accessibility. It focuses on the most basic barriers that prevent people from accessing your site. For example:
- Adding alternative text (alt text) to images.
- Making sure everything can be used with just a keyboard.
- Avoiding flashing content that could trigger seizures.
If your website meets Level A, you’re covering the bare minimum. But let’s be real—it’s not enough to provide a great experience for most users. Think of Level A as the foundation you build on, not the end goal.

Level AA: The Sweet Spot

Level AA is where things start to get serious. It’s the most widely recommended level and is often what the law requires. With Level AA, you’re tackling more detailed issues like:
- Make sure the text has enough contrast with the background so it’s easy to read.
- Ensuring your navigation is consistent and clear.
- Providing captions for videos so they’re accessible to people with hearing impairments.
For most websites, Level AA hits the perfect balance—it’s achievable, practical, and covers a wide range of accessibility needs. If you’re wondering how high to aim, this is probably your answer.

Level AAA: The Extra Mile

Level AAA is like the platinum package. It’s the highest level of accessibility, but it’s also the hardest to achieve. Some of the requirements include:
- Offering sign language interpretation for video content.
- Make sure your site works well even under very specific conditions, like extreme contrast ratios.
While Level AAA is an amazing goal, it’s not realistic for every website. Even the W3C acknowledges that hitting this level for all content isn’t always possible. Instead, focus on what’s achievable for your site and audience, and aim for AAA features where you can.

How High Should You Aim?

So, where should you set your sights? For most organizations, Level AA is the way to go. It’s the legal standard in many places, including the U.S., and it covers most accessibility needs without overcomplicating things.

However, your target might depend on your audience and industry. For example:
- Government Websites: Usually aim for Level AA or higher since they serve a broad, diverse audience.
- Online Stores: Need to make sure people can easily browse and buy products, so Level AA is essential.
- Educational Platforms: Sometimes, we need to go beyond Level AA to ensure equitable access to learning materials.
If you’re running a small business or personal site, don’t stress about hitting Level AAA. Instead, focus on meeting Level AA and improving over time. Remember, accessibility is a journey, not a one-and-done task.

What Makes Level AAA So Hard?

Achieving Level AAA isn’t just difficult—it often forces you to make compromises that can impact your site’s usability and aesthetics. For example, meeting AAA contrast requirements might mean overhauling your brand’s carefully chosen color scheme. Or you might have to simplify complex content so much that it loses its original value or appeal.

It’s a delicate balancing act. On one hand, you want your site to be as accessible as possible. On the other hand, you need to ensure it remains engaging, functional, and true to your brand. For most organizations, focusing on Level AA strikes the best balance, ensuring broad accessibility without requiring sacrifices that could alienate other users or disrupt the site’s purpose.

That said, Level AAA isn’t all or nothing. While it may not be practical to achieve across the board, incorporating some AAA features—like avoiding overly complicated language or providing additional customization options—can still enhance your site and make it more inclusive. The key is to aim high without losing sight of what works best for your audience and goals.

Keeping Your Website WCAG Compliant

Meeting WCAG standards isn’t a one-time thing. Websites evolve, and so do accessibility needs. Here’s how you can stay on top of it:

Regularly Audit Your Site

Run accessibility audits often to catch issues early. Tools like Google Lighthouse or WAVE are a great start, but don’t stop there—getting feedback from actual users with disabilities can give you insights you won’t find anywhere else.

Train Your Team

Accessibility isn’t just for developers. Designers, content creators, and even marketers should understand the basics of WCAG. The more your team knows, the easier it’ll be to stay compliant.

Make Accessibility Part of Your Process

Don’t wait until the end of a project to think about accessibility. Include it in every step—from planning and design to testing and deployment.

Use Accessibility Tools

Tools like screen readers and color contrast analyzers can help you spot problems before they become major issues. These tools are easy to use and can make a big difference.

Stay Up-to-Date

WCAG updates from time to time to reflect new technology and user needs. Keep an eye on these changes and adjust your strategy as needed.

Achieve WCAG Conformance with 216digital

When it comes to WCAG conformance, aiming for Level AA is usually the smart move. It’s realistic, effective, and ensures you’re meeting the needs of most users. If you can, sprinkle in some Level AAA features to go the extra mile.

Making your website accessible isn’t just about ticking off a checklist—it’s about creating a welcoming space for everyone. With regular updates, audits, and a commitment to accessibility, you’ll not only meet the standards but also build a site people love to use.

If you’re unsure where to begin or want to check your progress, 216digital is here to help. Schedule an ADA briefing with our team to learn how we can help you achieve WCAG conformance, lower your legal risks, and create a better experience for all your users.

Take the first step today—because accessibility isn’t just a requirement, it’s an opportunity to make your website better for everyone.
Greg McNeil

November 15, 2024

WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, WCAG, WCAG conformance, Website Accessibility
Retail Accessibility: Avoiding Common Pitfalls
The internet is overflowing with retail opportunities, but one crucial element often gets overlooked: accessibility. For online retailers, making your website accessible isn’t just about complying with legal requirements—it’s about expanding your customer base and delivering a better shopping experience for everyone. So, how can you ensure your online store is open to all shoppers and avoid common accessibility pitfalls? Let’s dive into the essentials.

Why Accessibility Matters for Online Retailers

Web accessibility means making sure everyone, including people with disabilities, can easily use and navigate your site. In the world., about 15% of the population lives with some form of disability. By ensuring your website is accessible, you’re tapping into a market with immense buying power—people with disabilities control over $6 trillion in spending globally!

But beyond opening your business to a broader audience, accessibility is also about staying compliant with laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In 2023, 82% of ADA lawsuits were related to web accessibility issues in the retail industry, affecting both large and small businesses alike. If your website isn’t accessible, you’re not just missing out on customers—you could also be facing legal risks.

The Web Accessibility Guidelines

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the foundation for creating an accessible website. These guidelines revolve around four main principles, often referred to as POUR:
- Perceivable: Content must be presented in a way that all users can perceive, whether visually or audibly.
- Operable: Your site should be fully navigable, whether users are using a mouse, keyboard, or assistive technologies.
- Understandable: Your content should be easy to comprehend and navigate.
- Robust: Your website should work well with a variety of assistive tools, like screen readers.
For retailers, aiming for WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance is a great starting point, and it’s the level referenced by most legal frameworks for web accessibility.

Steps for Online Retailers to Improve Accessibility Right Now

Improving your website’s accessibility might sound like a big task, but it’s more manageable than you think. Here are some quick and effective steps to make your site web accessible:

Auditing Retail Sites for Accessibility Issues

The first step is knowing where your site stands. Start with automated tools like Lighthouse or WAVE to flag common issues, such as missing image descriptions or poor color contrast. Then, dive deeper with manual testing, working with accessibility experts to uncover more subtle barriers, like challenges with forms or navigation.

Make Visual Content Accessible

People with visual impairments rely on alt text to understand images, so be sure to include detailed alt descriptions for all meaningful visuals. For example, instead of a vague description like “product,” use something more specific like “Blue ceramic coffee mug with a handle.” This simple change helps users with screen readers understand what’s being shown.

Don’t forget about video content! WCAG guidelines require captions for pre-recorded audio in videos. Ensure that auto-generated captions, like those from YouTube, are accurate, and provide transcripts for podcasts to make all media accessible.
```
<img src="coffee-mug.jpg" alt="Blue ceramic coffee mug with a handle">
<video controls>
  <track kind="captions" src="captions_en.vtt" srclang="en" label="English">
</video>
```
Optimize Website Navigation and Structure

Some users navigate your site without a mouse, relying solely on their keyboard. Make sure your site can be fully navigated using just a keyboard, with elements like menus, buttons, and forms accessible through “tab” key navigation. Also, ensure every interactive element has a visible focus indicator, like a border around buttons or links, so users can easily see where they are on the page.
```
button:focus, a:focus {
  outline: 2px solid #ffcc00; /* Provides a visible focus indicator */
}
```
Improve Form Accessibility

Checkout forms can be a stumbling block for accessibility, especially if they aren’t screen reader-friendly. Make sure all form fields have clear labels and that error messages don’t rely solely on color. For example, instead of just using a red outline to indicate a required field, include a text message like “This field is required” to make the error clear for all users.
```
<form>
  <label for="email">Email:</label>
  <input type="email" id="email" name="email" required>
  <span class="error" role="alert">This field is required</span>
</form>
```
The Retail Shopping and Checkout Process

Imagine trying to check out but not knowing where you are in the process—frustrating, right? Break your checkout process into clear, labeled steps and ensure it’s compatible with assistive technologies. Also, consider adding alternative payment methods like PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay to improve usability for all customers.

To meet WCAG SC 2.4.4 standards, you can use visual breadcrumbs or progress indicators to let users know where they are in the checkout process.
```
<nav aria-label="Breadcrumb">
  <ol>
    <li><a href="/cart">Cart</a></li>
    <li><a href="/shipping">Shipping</a></li>
    <li aria-current="page">Payment</li>
  </ol>
</nav>
```
Implement ARIA Landmarks and Roles

ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) landmarks and roles help assistive technologies identify key sections of your page. For instance, wrapping your site’s header in a role="banner" helps screen readers identify it as the main header, making it easier for users to navigate through your site.
```
<header role="banner">
  <nav role="navigation">
    <ul>
      <li><a href="/home">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="/products">Products</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
</header>
```
Testing and Ongoing Monitoring for Retailers

Web accessibility isn’t a one-time fix—it’s an ongoing process. Retail websites are constantly changing. Regular testing and monitoring are essential to ensuring that those updates or changes to your site don’t introduce new accessibility barriers. Tools like 216digital’s a11y.Radar can help you stay on top of accessibility issues with automated scans and detailed reports, making it easier to maintain a compliant and user-friendly website as new content is added.

Partnering with Accessibility Experts

If all of this sounds overwhelming, you don’t have to go it alone. Partnering with accessibility experts can fast-track your progress. Whether you need a thorough audit, code remediation, or ongoing support, companies like 216digital specialize in helping retail sites meet web accessibility standards. They can ensure your site is not only compliant but also delivers a seamless, enjoyable shopping experience for all users.

Accessibility Overlays: A Quick Fix or a Long-Term Solution?

You might have heard about accessibility overlays—tools that promise a quick fix for all your accessibility needs. While these overlays might sound tempting, they often fall short. Overlays can miss deeper, underlying issues with your website’s code and design, leaving you vulnerable to ADA lawsuits. In fact, 933 companies were sued last year after installing overlay solutions and many accessibility experts caution against relying on them as a long-term solution.

Instead, focus on making meaningful changes to your website’s design and functionality. Overlays might be a temporary patch, but they shouldn’t replace a full accessibility strategy.

Check Accessibility Off Your Shopping List

By making your website accessible, you’ll not only increase your customer base but also create a better shopping experience for everyone. Accessibility is a journey, and it’s one worth taking. Follow the steps outlined above, test your site regularly, and don’t hesitate to partner with experts to ensure your site stays compliant and user-friendly.

To help you get started on the right path, consider scheduling an ADA briefing with 216digital. Our team of experts can walk you through the latest accessibility guidelines, provide actionable insights, and show you how to ensure your site complies with ADA standards.

Online shopping should be for everyone, so let’s make it happen together!
Greg McNeil

October 16, 2024

How-to Guides, Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, ecommerce website, Retail, WCAG
Why ‘Click Here’ Hurts Your Website’s Accessibility
If you’ve spent any time browsing the web, you’ve probably come across links like “click here” or “read more.” While these phrases seem simple enough, they can actually be confusing or even frustrating—especially for people using screen readers to navigate a site. That’s where descriptive link text comes in. It’s essential for making websites more accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. So, let’s dive into why using meaningful link text is so important and how you can write it to improve both web accessibility and overall user experience.

What is Descriptive Link Text?

Descriptive link text is just what it sounds like—clickable text that clearly explains what the link is for. Instead of generic phrases like “click here” or “read more,” a good descriptive link gives enough context so users know exactly where the link will take them. This is a win for all users but especially important for people with disabilities who rely on screen readers to navigate the web.

Imagine trying to navigate a website where every link says “click here.” For someone using a screen reader, that’s a frustrating experience because they have no clue where any of those links will lead. Descriptive link text fixes that by making sure all users, no matter how they access the web, have a clear, easy-to-understand experience.

Why “Click Here” and “Read More” Are Problematic

Using generic phrases like “click here” or “read more” might seem harmless, but they can actually create confusion. When someone using a screen reader encounters a page full of links that all say “click here,” they’re left with no context about where the links go or what they do. It’s like being handed a bunch of blank signposts with no labels.

Let’s take a look at an example:
- Bad Link: Click here to read more.
- Better Link: Learn more about our services.
In the second example, the user knows exactly what they’re clicking on, which makes the experience more apparent and more helpful, especially for people using screen readers.

Empty Links and Their Impact on Accessibility

Another issue when it comes to web accessibility is empty links. An empty link is one that has no text or meaningful content for a screen reader to announce. For people using screen readers, these links are useless—they navigate to them but get no information about what they do. And for those using keyboard navigation, empty links can be frustrating roadblocks.

To avoid this, always make sure your links contain text, or if you’re using an image as a link, ensure there’s alternative text (alt text) that clearly describes what the link does.

How Descriptive Link Text Boosts Accessibility

One of the best things about the web is its potential to be accessible to everyone. But if we don’t put some thought into how we design and label things like links, we end up excluding a lot of people. Descriptive link text makes websites more accessible and improves the overall user experience in a few key ways:
- Clarity for Screen Reader Users: Screen readers read links out loud. If the link text is too vague, it isn’t very clear. Descriptive text helps users know exactly what to expect before they click.
- Better Navigation: Clear, simple language helps everyone, especially users with cognitive disabilities or learning differences, by reducing the mental effort needed to figure out what a link does.
- Faster Browsing: Descriptive links let users quickly scan a page and understand where each link will take them. This makes it easier for everyone to find what they’re looking for without guessing.
WCAG Guidelines for Descriptive Links

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a set of best practices for making the web usable by everyone. According to WCAG SC 2.4.4 Link Purpose, each link should make its purpose clear, either from the link text itself or from its surrounding context.

Here are a few essential tips from WCAG on how to write compelling link text:
- Be Concise and Relevant: Your link text should be short but informative. Don’t go overboard, but include enough detail so users know where they’re headed.
  - Example: Instead of “click here for more,” try “Learn more about accessible landmarks.“
- Skip the Redundancies: You don’t need to add words like “link” or “website” to your link text. Screen readers already announce that it’s a link, so saying “click here to visit the website” is unnecessary. Just say, “Visit our website.“
- Avoid Empty Links: Every link should have meaningful content. Empty links are confusing and serve no functional purpose for users navigating with keyboards or screen readers.
Examples of Effective and Ineffective Link Text
- Ineffective Link Text:
  - Click here
  - Read more
  - Learn more
  - Here
- Effective Link Text:
  - Download the 2024 Annual Report
  - Explore our upcoming events.
  - Read more about creating accessible web links.
In these examples, the goal is to make it crystal clear where the link will take the user, leaving no room for confusion.

Best Practices for Writing Descriptive Link Text
- Think About Context: Consider what the user needs to know about the link’s destination. This is especially important for screen reader users who may jump between links without reading the surrounding text. Make sure the link text alone provides enough information.
- Keep It Short and Sweet: Your link text should be informative but not too long. For example, “Contact Us for Support” is much clearer than “Click here if you need to get in touch with our support team.“
- Use Natural Phrasing: Don’t feel like you always need to add a “click here” to your sentence. Sometimes, the best link text is already part of your content. For instance, instead of “click here to learn more about our programs,” use the “learn more about our programs” link.
- Avoid URLs as Links: Long URLs are difficult for screen readers to interpret, especially if they contain numbers and special characters. Instead of linking a URL directly, use descriptive text like “Visit 216digital’s a11y.Radar Monitoring Page.”
- Alt Text for Image Links: If an image serves as a link, make sure the alt text conveys the purpose of the link. For example, if a shopping cart icon leads to the cart page, use alt text like “View Cart” rather than just “Cart.”
Linking It All Together

Incorporating descriptive link text is a small change that can have a significant impact on your website’s web accessibility. By ditching generic phrases, using clear and concise language, and following WCAG guidelines, you’ll make your site more navigable for everyone—especially users who rely on screen readers.

Creating an inclusive web experience doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does take attention to detail. If you’re unsure whether your website’s accessibility measures, including your link text, are up to standard, it might be time to seek expert advice. At 216digital, we offer ADA briefings that help you identify areas for improvement and ensure your site meets accessibility requirements.

Take the next step towards a more accessible web presence and schedule a complimentary ADA briefing with 216digital today. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you create a site that’s welcoming and usable for everyone.
Greg McNeil

October 14, 2024

How-to Guides, Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, Alt text, descriptive link text, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility
Debunking Common WCAG Myths
When it comes to digital accessibility, misconceptions can lead businesses astray, leaving them vulnerable to compliance issues and missed opportunities. From believing that automated tools can handle everything to thinking that accessibility compromises design, these myths often create unnecessary hurdles. The truth? Achieving web accessibility is not only possible but it can also be seamlessly integrated into your existing processes.

Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) so your business can take the right steps toward an accessible and inclusive online experience.

Myth 1: Conformance with WCAG = Compliance with Accessibility Laws

One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that adhering to WCAG automatically means compliance with all accessibility laws. While WCAG is widely recognized and often used as a benchmark for accessibility, it is important to note that WCAG conformance is not the same as legal compliance.

The Reality

Different countries have varying legal standards for accessibility, and while WCAG is used as a framework, laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S. or the European Accessibility Act (EAA) in Europe may have their interpretations and requirements. For example, the ADA doesn’t explicitly mention WCAG, but U.S. courts frequently use WCAG as the gold standard for determining accessibility in lawsuits.

Therefore, WCAG conformance is essential to achieving legal compliance, but it’s not the only factor. Businesses must stay informed about relevant accessibility laws in their jurisdiction to ensure full compliance.

Myth 2: Automated Tools are All I Need to Conform with WCAG Guidelines

Many organizations believe that using automated tools is enough to ensure compliance with WCAG. Automated testing can catch many accessibility issues, but relying solely on these tools is a mistake.

The Reality

Automated tools are a valuable first step in identifying accessibility issues, such as missing alt text or incorrect HTML elements. However, they cannot fully capture the complexity of human interactions with a website. Accessibility involves factors such as the ability to navigate a site using a keyboard, how intuitive the content is, and whether assistive technologies like screen readers can interpret the content correctly. These are challenges that require manual testing by actual users with disabilities.

Automated testing, manual audits, and user testing with people who rely on assistive technologies are essential to achieving WCAG compliance.

Myth 3: WCAG is a ”One-and-Done”Checklist

Some businesses think that WCAG is a static checklist that, once completed, guarantees permanent accessibility.

The Reality

Digital accessibility is an ongoing process. Websites are living entities that change over time—content updates, new features, or design overhauls. Each change presents the possibility of new accessibility barriers. Furthermore, the WCAG evolves, with updates to reflect new technologies and user needs (e.g., the transition from WCAG 2.0 to WCAG 2.2 with WCAG 3.0 in development).

To maintain compliance, businesses must regularly audit their digital products and ensure that any updates meet the latest WCAG standards. Accessibility should be baked into your organization’s development workflow and continuously revisited.

Myth 4: Only Businesses Who Serve the Disability Community Need to Follow WCAG

A common misconception is that only organizations that cater specifically to people with disabilities need to worry about WCAG compliance.

The Reality

Every business with an online presence should ensure digital accessibility. Over 1 billion people worldwide have some form of disability, which means that nearly every industry has potential customers who need accessible digital experiences. Additionally, in many jurisdictions, accessibility laws apply to many businesses, not just those explicitly serving the disability community.

Web accessibility also benefits a broader audience. For instance, captions on videos can help non-native speakers and accessible forms can improve the experience for all users, regardless of ability.

Myth 5: WCAG Guidelines Will Decrease My Site’s Visual Appeal

There’s a lingering belief that making a website accessible according to WCAG guidelines will compromise its design and visual appeal.

The Reality

Accessibility and good design go hand in hand. WCAG guidelines promote clarity, simplicity, and ease of use—principles that enhance a website’s user experience. Accessible design doesn’t mean dull or unattractive; it means that the site is intuitive and easy to navigate for all users.

Elements like sufficient color contrast, straightforward typography, and intuitive navigation are central to accessibility and aesthetics. Many visually stunning websites are entirely WCAG compliant by incorporating a design that benefits all users without sacrificing creativity or brand identity.

Myth 6: Implementing WCAG Guidelines is Expensive, Time-Consuming, and Resource-Intensive

Some businesses fear that conforming to WCAG guidelines will be a costly, laborious process that demands a complete overhaul of their digital properties.

The Reality

While achieving compliance requires time and resources, it can mean something other than a complete redesign or massive financial outlay. Many accessibility fixes—like adding alt text to images or improving color contrast—are relatively straightforward and inexpensive. Additionally, non-compliance costs, such as legal fees, lost customers, and reputational damage, far outweigh the costs of becoming compliant.

Moreover, integrating accessibility into your development process early on can make future compliance more accessible and cost-effective. Accessibility becomes much more expensive when treated as an afterthought or an add-on rather than part of the core design and development strategy.

How to Make Accessibility Achievable for Every Business

Debunking these myths is essential to understanding that WCAG compliance and digital accessibility are achievable for businesses of all sizes. Here are a few practical ways to approach accessibility:
1. Start Small, Scale Up: If you’re overwhelmed by the scope of WCAG guidelines, start with the most critical aspects and gradually expand your efforts. Begin by addressing the most common accessibility barriers, such as text alternatives and keyboard navigation.
2. Leverage External Expertise: Consider partnering with a digital accessibility expert. External accessibility consultants like 216digital bring specialized knowledge of WCAG guidelines and accessibility testing methods. They can help identify issues, prioritize fixes, and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure your site remains accessible.
3. Use a Hybrid Testing Approach: Combine automated tools with manual and user testing by people with disabilities. Automated tools can handle repetitive checks, but manual testing is vital for uncovering issues that require human judgment and assistive technology testing.
4. Plan for Accessibility from the Start: Integrate accessibility into your design and development process early on. This proactive approach reduces the time and cost of retrofitting accessibility into a live product.
5. Commit to Continuous Improvement: Remember, digital accessibility isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing commitment. Regular audits, training for your team, and staying informed about the latest WCAG updates will ensure you remain compliant over time.
Accessibility is Within Reach

Understanding these common misconceptions about WCAG and digital accessibility is just the beginning. The path to compliance and creating a truly accessible digital experience requires a tailored, proactive approach. At 216digital, we help businesses not only meet WCAG standards but also navigate the complexities of accessibility laws to protect themselves from costly litigation and better serve all users.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule an ADA briefing with our team to ensure your digital presence is compliant, inclusive, and future-proof. Together, we can make accessibility achievable for your business.
Greg McNeil

October 11, 2024

WCAG Compliance

ADA Compliance, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
Web Accessibility Overlays: A False Sense of Security
As a website owner, you likely recognize the growing need to make your site accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. With increased emphasis on ADA compliance, you may have encountered web accessibility overlays—automated tools that offer quick-fix solutions.

While they might seem like a convenient solution, these overlays can create significant pitfalls that could leave you vulnerable to legal risks and fail to provide true accessibility.

In this article, we’ll explore why relying on overlays could lead to a false sense of security and why a more comprehensive approach to addressing web accessibility is critical.

What Are Web Accessibility Overlays?

Overlays are software solutions that scan websites for barriers and apply superficial fixes with minimal user involvement. Their promise is simple: They claim to help your site meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and ADA standards, making your content more accessible.

At first glance, overlays seem appealing, with features like adjustable text sizes and color contrast options. However, they fail to deliver a truly inclusive online experience. While some surface level issues can be address, deeper accessibility barriers are frequently ignored or mishandled.

The Illusion of ADA Compliance

The biggest misconceptions surrounding web accessibility overlays is that they will guarantee ADA compliance. The harsh reality is that ADA compliance is multifaceted and cannot be achieved through automated fixes alone.

True web accessibility goes far beyond superficial adjustments. It requires a detailed understanding of the diverse barriers people with disabilities face when interacting with digital content. Overlays, which only focus on cosmetic changes, leave significant gaps in compliance, neglecting critical components of accessibility. Unfortunately, this gives many website owners the false impression that their sites are fully compliant when, in fact, they still fall short in several critical areas.

Automated Fixes Miss Critical Issues

While overlays can identify some common accessibility problems, they rely too heavily on automation, often leading to overlooking essential elements.

Here are some areas where they typically fall short:
- Semantic HTML: Using HTML elements correctly ensures that people using screen readers and other assistive technologies can understand your website’s content. Overlays cannot address issues like improper heading structures or missing ARIA labels.
- Alt Text for Images: Descriptive alt text provides essential context for visually impaired users. Automated tools can only see that they are missing. They cannot interpret the meaning or purpose of the image to generate meaningful descriptions.
- Keyboard Navigation: Many users are unable to use a mouse, requiring them to navigate a website through the use of a keyboard. To make a website accessible through keyboard navigations corrections must be made on a code level. As discussed above, overlays can only make superficial changes, and cannot make changes directly to the code.
By relying on these automated solutions, you may inadvertently overlook crucial aspects of web accessibility, leaving your site vulnerable to an ADA lawsuit.

The False Sense of Security

The use of web accessibility overlays can foster complacency, leading to a false sense of security. The mere presence of an overlay might make you believe your site is fully accessible, yet significant barriers may still be lurking beneath the surface.

This illusion is particularly dangerous. If your overlay doesn’t meet full accessibility standards, your website remains non-compliant with the ADA and other state regulations. As a result, businesses that thought they were protecting themselves with an overlay can find themselves in court, dealing with expensive settlements and lasting damage to their reputation.

In fact, 20% of all accessibility-related lawsuits this year targeted websites using these so-called “accessibility solutions,” and that number continues to grow. Relying solely on overlays not only fails to address critical accessibility issues but also opens the door to legal risks.

True web accessibility is not a one-time fix; it requires ongoing attention, regular audits, and user feedback. Overlays might provide a band-aid solution, but they can prevent you from developing a genuine commitment to accessibility, which is vital for both compliance and user experience.

A Human-Centered Approach to Web Accessibility

To meet the needs of all users and ensure ADA compliance, businesses must adopt a comprehensive, human-centered approach to web accessibility. Here are a few critical steps to achieving this:
- Understand Web Accessibility Guidelines: WCAG is a set of standards designed to make web content more accessible. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to understand what needs to be done. They cover aspects like text readability, alternative text for images, and keyboard navigation.
- Conduct a Website Audit: Regularly audit your website for accessibility issues. There are tools available online that can help you identify problems, such as missing alt text for images or issues with color contrast. Consulting with a specialist firm like 216digital to conduct a thorough audit can also be a wise investment.
- Engage with Users: Real feedback from individuals with disabilities is invaluable. Understanding their experiences navigating your site will provide critical insights for meaningful improvements.
- Train Your Team: Train your staff, especially those involved in website management and content creation, about web accessibility principles and best practices. This knowledge is essential to maintaining an accessible online experience over time.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Compliance is not a one-time task. This proactive approach helps prevent potential violations before they lead to costly lawsuits.
By prioritizing a human-centered approach, you can create an online environment that truly serves all users rather than settling for a quick-fix solution that only gives the illusion of compliance.

216digital’s Approach to Web Accessibility

At 216digital, we understand that genuine web accessibility requires more than just automated tools. Our comprehensive, human-centered approach goes beyond quick fixes to provide long-lasting solutions that focus on risk mitigation and compliance with WCAG 2.1/2.2 AA standards.

Through a11y.Radar, we offer ongoing monitoring, ensuring your website remains compliant and accessible to all users. By emphasizing thorough auditing and remediation services, we help businesses not only meet legal requirements but also tap into the underserved market of individuals with disabilities.

Our approach is built around long-term accessibility, protecting your business from potential lawsuits and positioning you to serve a broader, more inclusive audience better.

Conclusion

Web accessibility overlays may seem like an easy answer, but they often fall short of delivering the accessibility experience your users need and the compliance your business requires. Relying solely on these tools could leave your website open to legal risks and frustrate users with disabilities who still encounter barriers on your site.

At 216digital, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of ADA compliance with a human-centered approach. Schedule an ADA briefing with our team today to ensure your website is fully accessible, compliant, and welcoming to every visitor. Don’t settle for quick fixes—invest in meaningful accessibility that makes a real difference.
Greg McNeil

October 8, 2024

Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, Overlay widgets, Overlays, Web Accessibility
ADA Compliance vs Web Accessibility: What is the Difference
As more businesses move online, understanding web accessibility and ADA compliance becomes crucial. These terms are often used interchangeably but represent different aspects of making a website user-friendly for everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Knowing the distinction between web accessibility and ADA compliance can help protect your business from lawsuits while ensuring your site provides an inclusive experience.

In this article, we’ll examine the definitions of web accessibility and ADA compliance, explore their differences, discuss the legal risks associated with non-compliance, and explain how businesses can proactively address accessibility issues using services like 216digital’s Phase 1 remediation.

What is Web Accessibility?

Web accessibility involves designing and developing websites, tools, and technologies to ensure they are usable by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. This includes individuals who have visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, or neurological disabilities. The goal of web accessibility is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their disability, can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the web.

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

The primary standard for web accessibility is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), created by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). The latest version, WCAG 2.1, provides a comprehensive set of guidelines aimed at making web content accessible. These guidelines are organized around four core principles, commonly known as POUR:
- Perceivable: Information and user interface components must be presented in ways that all users can perceive.
- Operable: User interface components and navigation must be operable for everyone, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers.
- Understandable: Information and the operation of the user interface must be understandable.
- Robust: Content must be strong enough to work with a wide range of technologies, including those used by people with disabilities.
While WCAG provides the framework for web accessibility, compliance with it is generally voluntary unless law or legal action requires otherwise.

What is ADA Compliance?

ADA compliance refers to meeting the requirements set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was enacted in 1990. The ADA mandates that businesses, public services, and other organizations provide equal access to individuals with disabilities. Although the ADA was passed before the internet became mainstream, courts have increasingly ruled that websites are considered public accommodation places, meaning they must be accessible to people with disabilities.

ADA compliance, specifically in the context of websites, refers to whether your site meets the legal requirements of the ADA as interpreted by courts and the Department of Justice (DOJ). No official legal mandate states that WCAG 2.1 must be followed to achieve ADA compliance, but it is widely accepted that adhering to WCAG is the best way to meet ADA requirements.

How Does It Differ From Web Accessibility?
- Web accessibility is the broader concept of ensuring that people of all abilities can use websites.
- ADA compliance is a legal requirement for businesses in the U.S. to provide equal access to individuals with disabilities, which includes making websites accessible.
Web accessibility is a best practice, while ADA compliance is a legal standard. Following web accessibility guidelines, like WCAG 2.1, helps businesses meet the requirements of ADA compliance, but the two terms are not identical.

Is It Possible to Achieve and Maintain Full WCAG 2.1 Compliance?

Yes, but it’s not always easy, especially for bigger, more complex websites. WCAG 2.1 covers a lot of areas—like how text shows up, how media is handled, how forms work, and more. As technology and user needs evolve, keeping up with compliance is an ongoing effort. Regular testing, monitoring, and updates are needed to ensure the site meets the latest accessibility standards.

If you’re worried about protecting yourself from ADA lawsuits, aiming for full WCAG 2.1 compliance is a smart move. It can help reduce your legal risks, but it is only legally required in some cases. Courts have ruled in favor of plaintiffs in ADA lawsuits when websites were not accessible, even if they didn’t meet every single WCAG criterion.

Does Your Website Need to Be Fully Web Accessible to Protect Your Business?

To protect your business from ADA compliance lawsuits, it’s crucial to address the most common accessibility barriers, even if full WCAG 2.1 compliance is not achieved. Many companies focus on making the most essential parts of their website accessible, such as navigation, forms, and checkout processes. This approach can reduce the risk of a lawsuit while allowing businesses to improve their site’s accessibility gradually.

It’s also worth noting that courts have yet to require businesses to meet every WCAG 2.1 guideline to comply with the ADA. However, companies that demonstrate they are actively working to make their sites more accessible—by following best practices and improving critical accessibility issues—are generally better positioned to defend against lawsuits.

The Risk of ADA Compliance Lawsuits

ADA compliance lawsuits have skyrocketed in recent years, especially against businesses with inaccessible websites. These lawsuits can be costly, both in terms of financial settlements and reputational damage. Predatory law firms have begun targeting businesses—tiny and mid-sized companies—that have websites with accessibility issues. These firms often file “copycat” lawsuits, sometimes targeting hundreds of companies with nearly identical complaints.

The financial risk is real. Businesses are often forced to settle the lawsuit or pay legal fees, which can run into tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. In addition, businesses may also have to invest in website remediation services to fix accessibility issues.

How Predatory Law Firms Target Websites

Predatory law firms often conduct automated scans of websites to identify accessibility violations, such as missing alt text, poor contrast ratios, or non-functional navigation for keyboard-only users. Once they identify these issues, they send demand letters or file lawsuits, typically hoping that the business will settle quickly to avoid costly litigation.

Unfortunately, even well-meaning businesses that are working on improving accessibility can be targeted. This is why it’s essential to address website accessibility proactively rather than waiting for a lawsuit to happen.

Is Full WCAG 2.1 Compliance Required to Mitigate Lawsuits?

While full WCAG 2.1 compliance is not explicitly required to avoid lawsuits, businesses should aim to make their websites as accessible as possible. The more barriers that are removed, the less likely it is that a website will be the target of a lawsuit.

In most cases, addressing key accessibility issues—such as ensuring all images have alt text, providing video captions, and making the site navigable by keyboard—will significantly reduce the risk of a lawsuit.

Protect Your Business with 216digital

To help businesses avoid the pitfalls of non-compliance, 216digital offers Phase 1 remediation services designed to address the most critical accessibility issues quickly. These services focus on mitigating the risk of ADA lawsuits by resolving common accessibility barriers that predatory law firms often target. By implementing these initial fixes, businesses can start protecting themselves while working toward broader web accessibility goals.

In addition to Phase 1 remediation, 216digital offers ongoing monitoring and testing services to ensure your site remains accessible over time. With a proactive approach, businesses can avoid costly lawsuits and provide a better user experience for all visitors.

Ready to Make Your Website ADA Compliant?

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, ensuring your website is both accessible and ADA-compliant is more important than ever. While full WCAG 2.1 compliance may not always be required, addressing key accessibility issues can significantly reduce your risk of lawsuits and enhance the user experience for all visitors.

Take the next step toward protecting your business and making your website more inclusive. Schedule a personalized ADA compliance briefing with 216digital today. Our team can guide you through Phase 1 remediation and ongoing strategies to keep your site accessible and compliant.
Greg McNeil

October 3, 2024

Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Website Accessibility
Accessibility Remediation: Definitions & Guidelines

When you’re getting started with digital accessibility, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the technical jargon to wrap your head around. However, getting familiar with these key concepts is the first step toward making your website more accessible for everyone to use. In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most important terms you’ll come across in accessibility remediation. Whether it’s ensuring your site works well with keyboard navigation or understanding how assistive technologies come into play, we’ve got you covered. This quick rundown will help you get comfortable with the basics and take meaningful steps toward a more accessible site.

Key Terminology in Accessibility Remediation

When it comes to making your website accessible, there are a few key terms you’ll want to get familiar with. Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential terms you’ll encounter as you work to ensure your site is welcoming and usable for everyone.

Usability

Usability is all about how easy it is for people to navigate and interact with your website. The goal is to make sure that no one—regardless of their abilities—struggles to find what they’re looking for or complete tasks. It’s not just about making things functional, but about making them simple, intuitive, and frustration-free for all users.

Remediation

Remediation is just a fancy way of saying “fixing accessibility issues.” These are problems uncovered during an audit or assessment. This could mean tweaking your code, updating content, or adding features to make your site easier for people with disabilities. The idea is to go beyond patching things up and ensure your site works smoothly in the long run.

Compliance

Compliance refers to meeting specific legal guidelines and standards, like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Following these rules isn’t just about staying out of legal trouble—it’s about making sure your site is usable by people with disabilities. By staying compliant, you protect your business and ensure an inclusive online space.

Auditing

An accessibility audit is a deep dive into your website to identify any barriers that might prevent people with disabilities from using it fully. These barriers can range from missing image descriptions to confusing layouts. Auditing is the first step in figuring out what needs to be fixed, giving you a clear roadmap to improving your site’s accessibility.

User Testing

User testing is a hands-on way to see how real people—especially those with disabilities—interact with your website. While automated tools can catch some issues, real users can point out things machines might miss, like tricky navigation or features that don’t work well with assistive technologies. It’s like getting an inside scoop on how to make your site better for everyone.

Assistive Technologies

Assistive technologies are tools that help people with disabilities use the web. These include screen readers, voice control software, and alternative keyboards. Knowing how your site interacts with these tools is key to ensuring that all users can access your content.

Screen Reader

A screen reader is software that converts the text on a website into spoken words, allowing visually impaired users to “hear” the content. It’s a vital tool for those who can’t see the screen, helping them access everything from written text to image descriptions.

Keyboard Navigation

Not everyone uses a mouse to browse a website—many people rely on their keyboard to move through a site. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure that all site functions can be accessed using keyboard shortcuts. This includes things like filling out forms, clicking buttons, and navigating menus without needing a mouse.

Alternative Content

Alternative content refers to substitutes for visual or interactive elements that some users can’t access. For example, adding descriptive text (alt text) for images helps visually impaired users understand what’s in the picture. It’s not just about including something—it’s about making sure the alternative content adds value for those who need it.

Accessibility Overlay

An accessibility overlay is a quick-fix tool that can be added to your site to address specific accessibility problems. While it might provide some immediate help, it often doesn’t get to the root of the issues. True accessibility needs to be built into your site’s design and code rather than relying on these temporary fixes.

Accessibility Monitoring

Digital accessibility isn’t something you do once and forget about—it’s an ongoing effort. Monitoring means regularly checking your site to ensure it continues to meet accessibility standards as you make updates or add new content. This way, you can catch any new issues early and make sure your site stays user-friendly for everyone over time.

Compliance Standards and Laws

When it comes to making sure your website is both accessible and legally compliant, there are a few essential standards and laws you need to be aware of. Understanding these helps you avoid potential legal issues and ensures your site is inclusive.

W3C (World Wide Web Consortium)

The W3C is the leading organization that sets the rules and standards for how the web functions. They’re responsible for creating protocols that guide the future of the web, and one of their most important contributions is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines are the go-to standards for digital accessibility, ensuring that online content is usable for people of all abilities.

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

WCAG is a comprehensive set of recommendations to make web content more accessible to everyone, especially people with disabilities. These guidelines are built around four main principles—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (often called POUR).

In short, these principles ensure that all users can perceive and interact with content, understand how to use the site and that the content works reliably across different technologies and platforms. Following WCAG isn’t just good practice—it’s often a legal requirement.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA is a prominent civil rights law in the U.S. that protects people with disabilities from discrimination in various areas of life, including employment, public services, and, now, digital spaces. While the ADA doesn’t specifically mention websites, courts have increasingly ruled that digital accessibility falls under its umbrella. This means your website must be accessible, or you could be at risk of legal action for not complying with the ADA.

Section 508

Section 508 is a law that specifically applies to federal agencies and any organization working with them. It requires that all electronic and information technology, including websites, be accessible to people with disabilities. The good news is that Section 508 closely aligns with the WCAG standards, so if you’re following WCAG, you’re likely on the right track for Section 508 compliance, too.

IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

IDEA ensures that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate education, and in today’s world, that includes access to digital learning materials. Whether it’s a website, software, or other digital resource used in schools, it must be accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. If you’re involved in the education sector, this law is critical for ensuring digital accessibility in the classroom.

Accommodation Approaches

Making digital content accessible takes a variety of approaches. Here are some essential methods to ensure your website can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities.

Alt Text

Alt text, or alternative text, is a short description you add to images on your website. This ensures that people using screen readers can understand what the image is showing, even if they can’t see it. Alt text is essential for making visual content accessible to everyone.

Captions and Closed Captioning

Captions provide a text alternative for the spoken content in videos, which is helpful for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Closed captions take it a step further, including descriptions of non-verbal sounds like music or laughter, so users get the full experience of the video.

Video Description

Video descriptions offer a spoken narration of the visual elements in a video. This allows visually impaired users to understand what’s happening on screen, beyond just the dialogue, by hearing descriptions of actions, settings, or critical visual cues.

Color Contrast

Good color contrast between text and its background makes it easier to read, especially for people with visual impairments or color blindness. By ensuring your site has good contrast, you improve readability and make sure that everyone can engage with your content.

Headings and Landmarks

Using proper headings and landmarks on your website helps users navigate more easily, especially those relying on screen readers. These tools allow users to quickly jump between sections or locate specific content without having to scroll through the entire page.

Text-to-Speech

Text-to-speech technology can convert written text into spoken words, offering another way for users to access content. This is especially helpful for users with learning disabilities, visual impairments, or even those who prefer listening over reading.

Inclusive Design

Inclusive design means thinking about a wide range of user needs from the very beginning of the design process. By considering accessibility from the start, you can build a website that works for as many people as possible, without needing to retrofit fixes later.

Text Resize and Screen Magnification

Some users need to increase text size or zoom in on parts of your website to see them clearly. By allowing for easy text resizing and screen magnification, you’re giving users with visual impairments more control over how they view your content.

Why Accessibility Remediation is Critical

Accessibility remediation isn’t just about checking boxes for legal compliance—it’s about creating an inclusive, user-friendly digital space that welcomes everyone. Let’s dive into why making your website accessible is so important:

1. Inclusivity

At its core, digital accessibility is about inclusivity. Making sure your website is accessible means that people of all abilities can engage with your content, products, or services. This enhances the user experience for everyone, whether they have a disability or not. When your site is easy to use and navigate, you’re creating a welcoming space where everyone can participate equally in the digital world.

2. Legal Protection

Compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG and laws like the ADA isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement. Failing to meet these standards can result in lawsuits, hefty fines, and serious damage to your brand’s reputation.

3. Improved SEO

Here’s a bonus: many of the same practices that make your site accessible also happen to be great for SEO. For example, providing descriptive alt text for images not only helps visually impaired users but also helps search engines better understand your content. Structured content, clear headings, and easy navigation improve both accessibility and your search rankings. In short, making your site accessible can help you get noticed by more users—including search engines.

4. Market Reach

By ensuring your site is accessible, you’re opening your business up to a much larger audience. About 16% of the global population lives with some form of disability, and when your site is accessible, you’re making sure they can engage with your brand. This isn’t just a moral win—it’s good for business. More accessibility means more customers, which can directly lead to a boost in your customer base and your bottom line.

Take the First Step Toward Accessibility

Now that you’re more familiar with the key terms and concepts behind accessibility remediation, you’re in a great position to start making meaningful changes to your website. From ensuring proper keyboard navigation to creating alt text for images, every step you take improves the experience for users of all abilities—and keeps you on the right side of compliance.

But you don’t have to tackle this alone. At 216digital, we specialize in helping businesses create accessible websites that meet legal standards and enhance user engagement and reach. If you’re ready to make your site more inclusive and avoid potential legal risks, we’re here to guide you through the process.

Schedule a complimentary ADA strategy briefing with our team today. Together, we’ll map out a plan tailored to your business, helping you integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap. Let’s start creating a digital space that welcomes everyone and sets your business up for long-term success.

Greg McNeil

September 26, 2024

Legal Compliance, Testing & Remediation, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility Training

accessibility Definitions & Guidelines, Accessibility Remediation, ADA Compliance, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility
Common Web Accessibility Pitfalls That Invite ADA Lawsuits
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make their websites accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. When websites fail to meet accessibility standards, they risk facing lawsuits. In recent years, ADA lawsuits related to digital accessibility have surged, with businesses large and small getting sued for non-compliance. But what exactly are the most common issues that lead to these lawsuits?

This article will highlight the most common web accessibility barriers that lead to ADA lawsuits and provide real-world examples of lawsuits related to these issues.

1. Missing Alt Text

Alt text, or alternative text, provides a written description of an image on a webpage. Screen readers, which visually impaired users use to navigate the internet, read this description aloud.Without alt text, users with visual impairments have no way of knowing what an image represents.

For example, if a website has an image of a product for sale, the alt text might say, “Red shoe, size 8.” Without this text, screen reader users won’t know what the image shows, making it difficult to interact with the website.

Missing or incorrect alt text is one of the most common reasons for ADA lawsuits. Many businesses overlook this small but important step, leaving essential images without descriptions.

WCAG 2.1 Guideline: 1.1.1 – Non-text Content

All non-text content, such as images, must have a text alternative that serves the same purpose.

Example ADA Lawsuit: Fox News Network LLC

Fox News Network LLC was sued because its website didn’t provide proper alt text for many images. Luc Burbon, a visually impaired user, relied on screen readers to browse the internet. When trying to navigate Fox News’ website, he encountered images without alt text, leaving him unable to understand key content. The court agreed with Burbon, emphasizing that websites must be accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.

2. Non-Descriptive Interactive Elements

Interactive elements, like buttons and links, are crucial for navigating a website. However, if these elements aren’t appropriately labeled, users who rely on screen readers won’t know what a button or link does. This leads to confusion, frustration, and can make essential parts of the website inaccessible to users with disabilities.

For example, a button labeled “Click Here” without explaining what it does will leave screen reader users guessing, especially if there’s more than one on a page. Adding contextually relevant content to the visual or accessible label, such as “Click here to learn more about our coffee” will differentiate the element while also giving users additional context.

WCAG 2.1 Guideline: 4.1.2 – Name, Role, Value

Interactive elements should have clear labels that explain their purpose.

Example ADA Lawsuit: NIKE, Inc.

Maria Mendizabal filed a class-action lawsuit against Nike, claiming that the website had many links that were either redundant or completely empty. Users with visual impairments couldn’t understand the purpose of these links, making it challenging to navigate the site. This lawsuit demonstrates the importance of appropriately labeling interactive elements so everyone can understand them.

3. Lack of Keyboard Navigation

Many users with disabilities rely on keyboards to navigate websites, especially those who can’t use a mouse. If a website doesn’t allow for keyboard-only navigation, or if drop-down menus can’t be accessed with a keyboard, it becomes unusable for people with mobility impairments.

For example, if a menu only opens when hovered over with a mouse, someone using only a keyboard won’t be able to open it, blocking their access to critical sections of the site.

WCAG 2.1 Guideline: 2.1.1 – Keyboard

All functionality should be accessible using a keyboard.

Example ADA Lawsuit: Parkwood Entertainment LLC

In 2019, a lawsuit accused Parkwood Entertainment because Beyoncé’s official website, Beyonce.com, did not provide accessibility for users relying on screen readers.. Mary Conner, the visually impaired plaintiff, couldn’t navigate the drop-down menus using her keyboard. This prevented her from accessing important content and services, leading to a lawsuit.

4. Inaccessible Forms

Forms are commonly used on websites—for everything from signing up for newsletters to making purchases. However, forms that are difficult for people with disabilities to fill out can create barriers. Missing labels on form fields, unclear error messages, or forms that don’t work with keyboard navigation are common accessibility issues that lead to lawsuits.

For instance, if a form field asks for a phone number but doesn’t have a proper label, a screen reader user won’t know what to enter. Or, if an error message isn’t clear about what went wrong, visually impaired users won’t be able to correct their mistakes.

WCAG 2.1 Guideline: 3.3.2 – Labels or Instructions

Ensure input fields have proper labels and instructions so users know what information is required.

Example ADA Lawsuit: H&R Block Lawsuit

A notable example of this issue is the lawsuit involving the National Federation of the Blind and H&R Block. In this case, visually impaired users discovered that H&R Block’s website did not correctly label the forms. When these users tried to input their contact information or create an account, they struggled because the screen readers failed to indicate what information they needed or where to enter it.

5. Inaccessible Pop-Ups and Modals

Pop-ups and modals (dialog boxes that appear on top of a page) are common features on websites for everything from newsletter sign-ups to product promotions. However, if they are not designed with accessibility in mind, they can disrupt the user’s experience.

Pop-ups cause confusion if they appear without warning or if users can’t close them using a keyboard. Users relying on screen readers or assistive devices may not even know that a pop-up has appeared, making it impossible for them to continue interacting with the page.

WCAG 2.1 Guideline: 1.3.1 – Info and Relationships

When new content, like a pop-up, appears on the screen, announce it to the user and explain how it connects to the rest of the website.

Example ADA Lawsuit: Five Guys Enterprises

In a lawsuit against Five Guys, a visually impaired customer couldn’t complete an online order because an inaccessible pop-up appeared when trying to add fries to her cart. Her screen reader didn’t recognize the pop-up, making it impossible for her to finish the purchase. This case highlights the importance of making pop-ups accessible to everyone.

How to Avoid ADA Lawsuits

Avoiding ADA lawsuits starts with a proactive approach to web accessibility. Making your website accessible is not only a legal obligation but also an opportunity to provide a better user experience for all visitors, regardless of ability. Here are key steps you can take to avoid common accessibility pitfalls:
1. Understand Web Accessibility Guidelines: The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a set of standards designed to make web content more accessible. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines to understand what needs to be done. They cover aspects like text readability, alternative text for images, and keyboard navigation.
2. Conduct a Website Audit: Regularly audit your website for accessibility issues. There are tools available online that can help you identify problems, such as missing alt text for images or issues with color contrast. Consulting with a specialist firm like 216digital to conduct a thorough audit can also be a wise investment.
3. Implement Ongoing Training: Train your staff, especially those involved in website management and content creation, about web accessibility. This helps create a culture of inclusivity and ensures that accessibility remains a priority.
4. Stay Informed and Up-to-Date: Web accessibility standards and best practices can evolve over time. Stay iCompliance is not a one-time task. 216digital’s a11y.Radar service provides ongoing monitoring. It detects any new accessibility issues that may arise over time. This proactive approach helps prevent potential violations before they lead to costly lawsuits.”
Conclusion

Making sure your website is ADA-compliant is not just about avoiding lawsuits—it’s about ensuring that everyone, no matter their abilities, can access and enjoy your content. With the rise in ADA lawsuits, it’s more important than ever to take a proactive approach to web accessibility. Whether it’s fixing missing alt text or ensuring keyboard navigation, addressing these common issues can save your business time and money in the long run.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help maintaining compliance, 216digital is here to help. Through our years of experience analyzing these cases, we understand how ADA non-compliance lawsuit firms identify their targets. We can help you protect your business from these risks. At 216digital, we will develop a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap. This will allow you to focus on other tasks on your to-do list.

So don’t wait any longer; find out where you stand by scheduling a complementary ADA strategy briefing today.
Greg McNeil

September 25, 2024

Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, ADA Website Compliance, digital accessibility, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility
Does WCAG Apply to Mobile Apps?
If you’re a website owner or app developer, you’ve probably heard about WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). But when it comes to mobile apps, you might wonder: Does WCAG apply here too? The short answer is yes! WCAG isn’t just for websites—it extends to mobile apps as well. Let’s dive into why WCAG is important for mobile apps, what it means for accessibility, and how to ensure your app meets these guidelines.

What is WCAG, and Why Does it Matter?

WCAG, developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), provides guidelines to make web content more accessible for everyone, particularly people with disabilities. These guidelines help ensure that users with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments can interact with websites—and, as it turns out, mobile apps—with ease.

When WCAG was first introduced, it focused on websites, but as technology evolved, so did our understanding of accessibility. With the rise of mobile apps, it’s clear that WCAG also applies to them. Whether you’re building an e-commerce app, a social media platform, or a mobile version of your website, adhering to WCAG is crucial for staying compliant with accessibility standards and avoiding legal issues.

Does WCAG Apply to Mobile Apps?

Yes, WCAG applies to mobile apps. While WCAG wasn’t initially designed with mobile apps in mind, its principles are just as relevant in the mobile space. The guidelines are technology-agnostic, meaning they can be applied to any digital content, including mobile apps.

Mobile apps, like websites, must be accessible to everyone, and the same types of barriers that exist on websites—like unreadable text, poor color contrast, or unclear navigation—can also affect mobile apps. That’s why WCAG compliance is essential for mobile app development. Not only does it help create a better user experience for people with disabilities, but it also ensures that your app is legally compliant.

The Growing Importance of Mobile Accessibility

Mobile devices have become an essential part of our daily lives, with more people accessing information and services via apps than ever before. This makes it even more important to ensure that mobile apps are accessible. In fact, a significant portion of users rely on mobile devices as their primary way of accessing the internet, including people with disabilities. Ensuring your app meets accessibility standards isn’t just good practice; it’s a way to reach a broader audience.

Failing to consider accessibility in mobile apps can result in lost users, bad reviews, and even legal consequences. There have been several lawsuits filed in the U.S. where businesses were held accountable for not providing accessible mobile experiences. By following WCAG, you reduce the risk of these issues and open your app to a more diverse audience.

How WCAG Applies to Mobile Apps

WCAG guidelines revolve around four core principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (often abbreviated as POUR). These principles are crucial when designing both websites and mobile apps.
1. Perceivable: Information and user interface components must be presented in ways that users can perceive. For mobile apps, this means ensuring that text is readable, images are described through alt text, and media elements are captioned or have transcripts available.
2. Operable: Users must be able to interact with all interface elements using various input methods, such as screen readers or voice commands. In mobile apps, this could include ensuring that buttons are large enough to be tapped easily and that the app works with assistive technologies like voice control or switch access.
3. Understandable: The interface must be easy to understand and navigate. This is especially important for mobile apps, where the small screen size can make navigation more difficult. Make sure that users can easily understand how to use your app, with clear instructions and intuitive design elements.
4. Robust: The app must be compatible with current and future technologies. This includes ensuring that your app works well across different devices, platforms, and with assistive technologies.
Mobile App Accessibility Checklist

Now that we’ve established that WCAG does apply to mobile apps, how do you ensure that your app is compliant? Here’s a mobile app accessibility checklist to get you started:

Text and Readability
1. Text Resizing: Make sure your text can get bigger without messing up the layout. This is part of WCAG 1.4.4 (Resize Text), which means users should be able to increase text size up to 200% without losing content or functionality.
2. High Contrast: Use colors that are easy to read against each other, like dark text on a light background. This helps everyone, including those with vision problems. WCAG 1.4.3 (Contrast Ratio) suggests a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for larger text.
3. Alternative Text: Always include a description for images, icons, and buttons. This helps screen readers explain what’s on the screen to people who can’t see the images. This follows WCAG 1.1.1 (Non-Text Content).
Keyboard and Assistive Technology Compatibility
1. Keyboard Accessibility: Make sure all parts of your app can be used with just a keyboard. This is covered by WCAG 2.1.1 (Keyboard), ensuring that users who can’t use a mouse can still navigate your app.
2. Assistive Technology: Check that your app works well with tools like screen readers, voice controls, and switches. This is important for WCAG 4.1.2 (Name, Role, Value), which ensures that assistive technologies can interpret user interface elements.
3. Screen Reader Testing: Test your app with popular screen readers like VoiceOver (for iPhones) and TalkBack (for Android phones) to make sure they work well together.
Navigation and Interaction
1. Consistent Navigation: Keep navigation easy and the same across different screens. This is part of WCAG 3.2.3 (Consistent Navigation), which helps users get around without getting lost.
2. Touch Targets: Make sure buttons and icons are big enough for everyone to tap easily. WCAG 2.5.5 (Target Size) recommends making touch targets at least 44×44 pixels.
3. Simple Gestures: Avoid using complex gestures like multi-finger swipes without offering simpler options. WCAG 2.5.1 (Pointer Gestures) suggests providing alternatives for complex gestures.
Audio and Video Content
1. Captions: Add captions to all your videos so people who can’t hear well can still understand what’s being said. This is part of WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions (Pre-recorded)).
2. Transcripts: Include transcripts for audio content and podcasts. This is a text version of the audio that helps people who are deaf or hard of hearing, covered by WCAG 1.2.1 (Audio-only and Video-only (Prerecorded)).
3. Playback Controls: Let users control the audio playback, including volume and speed, and make sure they can pause or stop it. This aligns with WCAG 1.4.2 (Audio Control).
Color and Contrast
1. Color Contrast: Ensure there’s a strong contrast between text and background colors to help users with color blindness or vision problems. Aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text and 3:1 for large text, as recommended by WCAG 1.4.3 (Contrast Ratio).
2. Avoid Color Alone: Don’t use color as the only way to show important info. For example, if you use red to highlight an error, also include text to explain it. This follows WCAG 1.4.1 (Use of Color).
Error Identification and Recovery
1. Error Highlighting: Clearly show when something goes wrong, like a missing form field, and give tips on how to fix it. This is part of WCAG 3.3.1 (Error Identification) and 3.3.3 (Error Suggestion).
2. Clear Error Messages: Make sure error messages are easy to understand, not full of technical jargon. This helps users fix mistakes, as outlined in WCAG 3.3.3 (Error Suggestion).
3. Easy Recovery: Allow users to fix mistakes without starting over. For example, let them undo actions or correct errors easily. This is covered by WCAG 3.3.4 (Error Prevention (Legal, Financial, Data)).
Test with Real Users
1. User Testing: Even if you follow all the WCAG guidelines, it’s crucial to test your app with real users who use assistive technologies. Their feedback is invaluable for ensuring your app is truly accessible.
2. Keep Improving: Use feedback from user testing to make your app better. Keep updating and checking your app to make sure it stays accessible as you add new features.
The Benefits of Accessible Mobile Apps

Making your mobile app accessible is not just about complying with regulations—it’s about providing a better user experience for everyone. Here are some key benefits:
- Wider Audience: Accessible apps reach a broader audience, including users with disabilities who may not be able to use apps that don’t meet WCAG guidelines.
- Improved Usability: Many accessibility improvements, like clearer navigation and larger touch targets, make your app easier to use for all users, not just those with disabilities.
- Avoiding Legal Risk: Compliance with WCAG helps you stay on the right side of web compliance laws, reducing the risk of lawsuits related to accessibility.
- Better Reputation: Being proactive about accessibility can enhance your brand’s reputation and show your commitment to inclusivity.
Final Thoughts

In the digital age, mobile apps are a key part of how we interact with the world, and making sure they’re accessible is crucial for providing an inclusive experience. WCAG does apply to mobile apps, and by following the guidelines, you can create apps that are usable by everyone, regardless of their abilities. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re improving an existing app, using the mobile app accessibility checklist can help ensure that your app is WCAG-compliant and ready to serve all users.

Remember, accessibility isn’t just about following the law—it’s about doing the right thing for your users and your business. To learn more about becoming accessible and staying compliant, schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital today. We’re here to help you take the next steps!
Greg McNeil

August 27, 2024

WCAG Compliance

digital accessibility, mobile apps, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility

What Is POUR?

Perceivable: Making Content Accessible to the Senses

What Does Perceivable Mean in Practice?

Common Mistakes That Violate Perceivable Standards

Operable: Ensuring Users Can Navigate and Interact

What Does Operable Mean in Practice?

Common Mistakes That Violate Operable Standards

Understandable: Keeping Content Clear and Predictable

What Does Understandable Mean in Practice?

Common Mistakes That Violate Understandable Standards

Robust: Ensuring Compatibility with Current and Future Technologies

What Does Robust Mean in Practice?

Common Mistakes That Violate Robust Standards

Bringing POUR Principles Together

Example: An E-Commerce Website

Putting POUR into Practice

POURing Effort into Accessibility

What is WCAG?

Why Should You Care About WCAG Conformance?

Breaking Down the WCAG Conformance Levels

Level A: Covering the Basics

Level AA: The Sweet Spot

Level AAA: The Extra Mile

How High Should You Aim?

What Makes Level AAA So Hard?

Keeping Your Website WCAG Compliant

Regularly Audit Your Site

Train Your Team

Make Accessibility Part of Your Process

Use Accessibility Tools

Stay Up-to-Date

Achieve WCAG Conformance with 216digital

Why Accessibility Matters for Online Retailers

The Web Accessibility Guidelines

Steps for Online Retailers to Improve Accessibility Right Now

Auditing Retail Sites for Accessibility Issues

Make Visual Content Accessible

Optimize Website Navigation and Structure

Improve Form Accessibility

The Retail Shopping and Checkout Process

Implement ARIA Landmarks and Roles

Testing and Ongoing Monitoring for Retailers

Partnering with Accessibility Experts

Accessibility Overlays: A Quick Fix or a Long-Term Solution?

Check Accessibility Off Your Shopping List

What is Descriptive Link Text?

Why “Click Here” and “Read More” Are Problematic

Empty Links and Their Impact on Accessibility

How Descriptive Link Text Boosts Accessibility

WCAG Guidelines for Descriptive Links

Examples of Effective and Ineffective Link Text

Best Practices for Writing Descriptive Link Text

Linking It All Together

Myth 1: Conformance with WCAG = Compliance with Accessibility Laws

The Reality

Myth 2: Automated Tools are All I Need to Conform with WCAG Guidelines

The Reality

Myth 3: WCAG is a ”One-and-Done”Checklist

The Reality

Myth 4: Only Businesses Who Serve the Disability Community Need to Follow WCAG

The Reality

Myth 5: WCAG Guidelines Will Decrease My Site’s Visual Appeal

The Reality

Myth 6: Implementing WCAG Guidelines is Expensive, Time-Consuming, and Resource-Intensive

The Reality

How to Make Accessibility Achievable for Every Business

Accessibility is Within Reach

What Are Web Accessibility Overlays?

The Illusion of ADA Compliance

Automated Fixes Miss Critical Issues

The False Sense of Security

A Human-Centered Approach to Web Accessibility

216digital’s Approach to Web Accessibility

Conclusion

What is Web Accessibility?

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

What is ADA Compliance?

How Does It Differ From Web Accessibility?

Is It Possible to Achieve and Maintain Full WCAG 2.1 Compliance?

Does Your Website Need to Be Fully Web Accessible to Protect Your Business?