Web Accessibility Training Archives/Category

How Digital Accessibility Training Reduces Legal Risk
You’ve already put in the work. Your site has been remediated, the big accessibility issues are behind you, and things are finally in a good place. That’s huge. But here’s the thing—accessibility doesn’t stay fixed on its own.

Websites evolve fast. New content gets published. Layouts shift. Design trends change. And unless your internal team knows how to keep accessibility in place, even small updates can knock you out of compliance before you realize it.

This is where digital accessibility training becomes your secret weapon. It’s not about starting over—it’s about staying in control, protecting your investment, and building confidence across your team.

Why Accessibility Isn’t “One and Done”

If you’ve ever updated a button style or added an image without checking the alt text, you already get it: accessibility issues can sneak in easily.

Every time your team touches the website—whether it’s a blog post, a product update, or a code tweak—they’re either maintaining compliance… or breaking it.

Remediation isn’t the finish line. It’s the starting point for sustainable accessibility. And without digital accessibility training, your team is basically driving without a map. One wrong turn, and you’re back in legal territory.

The Legal Stakes: Second-Time Lawsuits Are Surging

Here’s a stat that should stick: 41% of accessibility lawsuits last year were filed against companies that had already been sued before. That’s not a coincidence. It’s a sign.

Fixing things once doesn’t mean you’re covered forever. If issues come back—especially the same ones—courts notice. And they’re less patient the second time around.

Digital accessibility training helps your team catch issues early, long before they show up in a legal complaint. It’s the difference between being reactive and being resilient.

Training Makes You Proactive, Not Dependent

When your team is trained, they can:
- Spot accessibility problems in real-time
- Design and code with accessibility in mind from the start
- Review content before it goes live—not after complaints roll in
Instead of waiting for a vendor audit (and the invoice that comes with it), you can handle it in-house. That means fewer delays, fewer emergencies, and fewer costs.

Digital accessibility training empowers your team to do accessibility right—the first time.

It’s Not Just the ADA Anymore

If your organization works with government agencies, serves international users, or plans to expand globally, accessibility compliance means more than just the ADA.

You’ve got:
- Section 508 in the U.S.
- EN 301 549 in the EU
- AODA in Ontario, Canada
- And, of course, WCAG, which ties it all together
Training helps your team navigate all of it. No guessing. No scrambling. Just smart, informed decisions that keep you compliant across borders.

Why Training Costs Less (and Does More) Than You Think

Hiring outside help every time something breaks? That adds up—fast.
- Emergency audits
- Last-minute fixes
- Legal consultations
- Brand damage
Now compare that to the cost of training your internal team once—and watching them catch and prevent those issues every day.

Digital accessibility training is a one-time investment that keeps paying off. It saves time, reduces legal risk, and builds real, lasting confidence across departments.

What 216digital’s Training Really Looks Like

At 216digital, we don’t do cookie-cutter courses. Your team isn’t generic—and your training shouldn’t be either.

Here’s what our digital accessibility training includes:
- Custom learning paths based on your CMS, platform, and team roles
- Modules for designers, developers, content creators, and PMs
- Real examples from your own website
- Practical tips that match the tools you already use
- Built-in support for the remediation work you’ve already completed
This isn’t about teaching theory. It’s about building confidence and making sure your site stays accessible.

Who Needs to Be Trained?

Short answer: anyone who touches your website. Because accessibility isn’t just a dev thing. It’s not just a design thing. It’s a whole team thing.
- Developers learn to code accessibly from the ground up
- Content creators learn how to format text, links, and images the right way
- Designers learn how to make inclusive choices from the start
- QA testers learn what to look for before pushing updates live
When the whole team is on the same page, accessibility becomes second nature—not an afterthought.

A Human Approach That Actually Sticks

At 216digital, we live this stuff. We’re developers, writers, testers, and designers just like you. We’ve seen how frustrating accessibility can be when it feels like a mystery—and we’re here to make it feel manageable.

Our digital accessibility training is:
- Practical – You’ll use what you learn right away
- Approachable – No jargon, no lectures, just real conversations
- Supportive – We’re here to help, not to judge
Accessibility is about people. So is training.

The Bottom Line: Keep What You’ve Built

You’ve already made a big investment in accessibility. Don’t let it fade over time.

Digital accessibility training is how you protect that work, reduce legal risk, and give your team the tools to move forward with confidence.

Let’s make sure your website stays inclusive—for everyone who needs it.

Ready to empower your team? Learn more and schedule a custom session at 216digital.com/216digit-training
Greg McNeil

April 30, 2025

Web Accessibility Training

Accessibility, Accessibility Training, Marketing, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Training, web development, Website Accessibility
Who Needs Web Accessibility Training?
Think about all the hands that shape a website before it goes live.

A designer sketches the layout. A content writer crafts the story. A developer brings it to life. A marketer promotes it. A project manager keeps the wheels turning. But if even one person in that chain doesn’t understand the basics of accessibility, the final experience can fall short for someone trying to navigate with a screen reader, keyboard, or other assistive tools.

Accessibility issues don’t usually happen because people don’t care—they happen because people don’t know what to look for. That’s why accessibility training isn’t just for developers or tech teams. It’s for everyone who shapes the digital experience—from strategy to support.

When teams understand their role, accessibility becomes part of the process—not a last-minute fix. And that’s when real progress begins.

Why Broader Accessibility Training Matters

Accessibility barriers often hide in plain sight. A confusing heading can trip up a screen reader. An auto‑playing video can trap a keyboard user. Each issue might start with a different team, so solving them requires shared awareness and a shared skill set.

When every role learns the basics, good habits form early. This lowers future repair costs, speeds up projects, and reduces legal risk. Just as important—it sends a clear message: “Our doors are open to everyone.”

Who Should Learn—and What They Need to Know

Here’s how accessibility training benefits each team involved in your digital presence.

1. Executives and Senior Leaders

What they do: Set vision, approve budgets, choose partners.

Why they train: Training helps leaders connect accessibility to results—larger audiences, stronger brand trust, and measurable ROI. They also learn how setting clear goals and timelines keeps inclusion on track.

2. Designers and UX Teams

What they do: Choose colors, type, layouts, and flows.

Why they train: Design choices determine whether text is readable, buttons are reachable, and flows make sense. Training covers contrast, consistent icon labels, logical headings, and visible focus indicators.

3. Developers and Engineers

What they do: Write and test code.

Why they train: Developers learn how to apply semantic HTML, ARIA roles, keyboard support, and accessible error handling. Even seasoned coders benefit from updated WCAG guidance and modern tooling.

4. Content Creators and Editors

What they do: Write blog posts, help articles, PDFs, and product pages.

Why they train: Clear headings, plain language, and helpful alt text transform raw info into inclusive content. Training includes quick checks for reading level, link clarity, and captioned media.

5. Marketers and Social Media Managers

What they do: Create campaigns, videos, landing pages, and emails.

Why they train: Marketing moves fast, and small oversights spread wide. Training ensures captions are added, visuals are described, and flashing graphics are avoided—protecting both reach and user safety.

6. Quality‑Assurance Testers

What they do: Validate features before launch.

Why they train: QA staff learn how to run both automated scans and manual checks with keyboards and screen readers. Catching issues here prevents costly post-launch fixes.

7. Product and Project Managers

What they do: Gather requirements, plan sprints, and manage scope.

Why they train: They learn to include accessibility in acceptance criteria and timelines, and track progress against WCAG standards—making sure nothing slips through.

8. Customer Support Teams

What they do: Handle questions and feedback.

Why they train: Support agents are often the first to hear about accessibility barriers. Training helps them log issues clearly, guiding meaningful improvements.

Building a Culture of Learning

Workshops are a great start—but lasting accessibility comes from weaving training into everyday workflows. Here’s how to keep that momentum alive:
- Start with a quick win: Host a one‑hour session on headings and alt text. Immediate impact builds confidence.
- Use role-based paths: Designers explore contrast and layout. Marketers focus on captions and social media accessibility.
- Pair training with checklists: A simple “before you publish” list—contrast, keyboard reach, captions—keeps lessons at the top of your mind.
- Bring in real users: Invite people with disabilities to demos. Live feedback drives empathy and makes the value of inclusive design unmistakable.
- Celebrate success: Recognize teams that close accessibility tickets or launch inclusive content.
Choosing the Right Accessibility Training Format

Not everyone learns the same way. Mix formats to meet your team’s needs:
- Live workshops: Great for Q&A and real-time practice.
- Short video modules: Ideal for busy schedules or quick refreshers.
- Office hours: Open sessions where experts answer questions from any team.
- Documentation hubs: Centralized space for checklists, coding samples, and brand guidelines.
Larger organizations may also benefit from certification tracks or external mentors to support deeper learning and audits.

Measuring Success

Track the impact of training to keep improving:
- Fewer accessibility issues during QA.
- Lower remediation costs thanks to early awareness.
- Positive user feedback from screen reader and caption users.
- Fewer legal notices or compliance complaints.
Quarterly progress reports help leadership see the value and maintain support.

Overcoming Common Roadblocks
- “We don’t have time.” Break accessibility training into 15-minute micro-lessons that fit between meetings.
- “We can’t teach everyone everything.” Focus on essentials for each role—developers need ARIA, executives don’t.
- “It sounds too technical.” Share real stories. A single form label can help both a low-vision user and someone filling it out in bright sunlight.
Getting Started: A Quick Action Plan
1. Audit your team’s skills. Survey knowledge gaps.
2. Create a roadmap. Start with high-impact roles.
3. Choose a learning partner. Consultant, online platform, or internal champion.
4. Launch a pilot session. Start with something approachable, like image alt text.
5. Review and refine. Gather feedback and evolve your approach.
When people know what to look for, accessibility becomes second nature—not a scramble.

Equip Your Team, Elevate Your Experience

A successful accessibility program isn’t powered by one expert—it’s built on shared understanding. The more your teams know, the more they can contribute to inclusive, compliant, user-friendly experiences from the very beginning.

Now’s the time to turn knowledge into action. Whether you’re setting strategy, designing experiences, writing content, or launching campaigns, accessibility training helps each role identify where inclusion starts—and how to make it stick.

Accessibility Training That Moves Teams Forward

At 216digital, we include complementary ADA training with every project because we believe that lasting accessibility starts with alignment. Our role-based approach ensures your team isn’t just meeting requirements—they’re embedding inclusion into design, development, and communication with confidence.

Ready to move forward? Schedule a personalized ADA briefing with us. We’ll help you map out your goals, identify key opportunities, and launch a training strategy that’s effective, affordable, and built to last.

The most accessible experiences are the ones designed with intention. Let’s help your team build them.
Greg McNeil

April 17, 2025

Web Accessibility Training

Accessibility, Accessibility Training, Marketer, Web Accessibility Training, web developers, Website Accessibility
How to Make Your Marketing More Accessible

You know how important marketing is already. But the real question is: Who’s not getting your message?

It’s easy to assume your carefully crafted campaigns are reaching everyone—but are they? What about someone using a screen reader? Or someone experiencing cognitive overload from flashing images or cluttered layouts?

You’re already working with engagement rates, algorithms, and design trends if you’re a marketer or content creator. So why do you need to worry about accessibility, too? Because accessible marketing is not optional—it’s necessary if you want to reach more, protect your brand, and build more trust.

Let’s parse out the ways that accessibility intersects with marketing now—and how it actually puts you ahead in terms of competition.

Why Accessibility Matters in Marketing

Grow Your Audience—Organically

Consider this: nearly 16% of people globally possess a disability that affects how they use the internet. If your content or site isn’t accessible, you’re missing out on a significant portion of your audience. Adding accessible marketing helps those individuals, but it also has the effect of simplifying and enhancing the experience for all, making your brand more desirable and accessible.

Improve Your Brand’s Credibility

Audiences today notice—and appreciate—brands that are concerned with being inclusive. Brands like Microsoft and Apple have established trust by being considerate and inclusive behaviors. By adopting accessible marketing, you’re broadcasting a message loud and clear: you genuinely care about your audience. That sincerity boosts customer loyalty and turns customers into brand ambassadors.

Get a Natural SEO Boost

Here’s a practical advantage: accessible marketing tends to coincide with SEO best practices. Descriptive text and clear, well-structured content help search engines and assistive technologies comprehend your content better. By making your site more accessible, you’ll not only enhance user experience but also perhaps enhance your search result visibility.

Stay Compliant and Reduce Risk

You’re probably familiar with accessibility laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and guidelines such as Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Ignoring these standards can lead to serious legal consequences—something no brand wants to face. By integrating accessible marketing into your strategies, you proactively avoid these risks, protecting your business and its reputation.

Website Accessibility Tips

Make Your Content Easy to Navigate

Attempt to use only the Tab key to navigate through your site. Is it easy and self-evident? Good usage of headings (H1, H2, H3) isn’t all about design appearance—it helps users navigate without hindrance, especially those who rely on assistive technologies.

Always Add Alt Text to Images

Alt text is a short description of an image. Screen readers use this text to describe the image aloud for people who can’t see it. For example, if you have a photo of a smiling person holding a dog, your alt text could say, “A woman holding a small brown dog and laughing.”

When writing alt text, be clear and concise. Provide enough information so someone can imagine the picture if they can’t see it. This step takes only a few seconds per image, but it goes a long way in making sure everyone can follow along.

Use Clear Language and Short Sentences

Plain language is your friend. It cuts out fluff and makes your message easier to understand. Not everyone enjoys reading long paragraphs loaded with big words. Simple wording often performs better because people grasp the idea quickly. Then, they can respond, share, or buy without confusion.

Try to limit long sentences. If a sentence feels like it’s going on forever, break it into two. This helps your audience read faster and makes screen readers work better.

Check Keyboard Navigation and Focus Indicators

Not everybody is a mouse user. Well-designed visible keyboard focus indicators make it easy for users with keyboard navigation or assistive device users to access your site with ease.

Be Careful With Animated Content

Animated or blinking content can be distracting or even harmful to some users. When you use animations, always provide an easy way to pause or disable them.

Social Media Accessibility Best Practices

Alt Text Isn’t Just for Websites

Image descriptions (alt text) are supported by most social media platforms these days. Make it a habit—you’re taking a simple step toward accessible marketing.

Format Hashtags Clearly

Hashtags like #MarketingTips2023 (all capitals) are more screen-reader friendly than all-lowercase counterparts, increasing accessibility right away.

Limit Emoji Usage

Emojis are great, but they should be used only sparingly. Excessive emoji usage will provide messy audio experiences for screen reader users.

Tag Your Links with Care

“Click Here” is useless. Descriptive words like “Find our latest products” will all inform users properly of the intent of the link.

Multimedia Accessibility Strategies

Use Captions and Transcripts

Video marketing is a big part of many brands’ strategies. But some viewers are deaf or hard of hearing. Others can’t use sound at certain times, like when they’re in a library or a busy coffee shop. Closed captions let them follow the video’s message without hearing the audio.

A transcript is also helpful. It’s a written version of all the spoken words and important sounds in a video. Transcripts help search engines pick up on your keywords. This gives an added SEO boost.

Add Audio Descriptions

Audio descriptions explain to visually impaired viewers what they are missing. This action unequivocally demonstrates your brand’s commitment to accessible marketing.

Making Accessibility a Habit

Make Accessibility Part of Your Workflow

Accessibility need not be a burden. Incorporate it into your regular content creation processes—train personnel, prep checklists, and add accessibility into every campaign plan. Accessible marketing will be second nature in no time.

Regularly Improve

Accessibility is not set-and-forget. Regular testing with tools like WAVE or Lighthouse and feedback from real-life assistive tech users ensures that your marketing remains effective and inclusive.

Closing the Conversion Gap

Marketing is all about creating a connection—and that connection isn’t whole if parts of your audience are left behind. By committing to accessible marketing, you’re committing to better communication, more active relationships, and more relevant experiences for each and every individual who comes into contact with your brand.

So, how do you begin? Take what you already do so well and add accessibility to it. Utilize it to inform the way you design, write, and present content. And when you need advice, we at 216digital can keep everything in rhythm, accessible to everyone, and effective.

Great marketing is not just something that is seen or heard – it’s something that’s felt by everyone.

Greg McNeil

March 24, 2025

How-to Guides, The Benefits of Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Training

Accessibility, Digital Marketing, Marketing, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
The Dos and Don’ts of Crafting a Web Accessibility Policy
When you run a website or create online content, it’s easy to get excited about beautiful visuals and the latest technology. But here’s the thing many people overlook: web accessibility. Making your website easy for everyone to use—no matter their abilities—isn’t just kind, it’s smart business.

A thoughtful web accessibility policy explains exactly how your website will be welcoming and easy to use for everyone, especially people with disabilities. It shows you care about being fair and inclusive, building trust with your visitors.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through creating a strong, practical web accessibility policy, show you how to put it into action, and help you build an organizational culture that cares deeply about accessibility every day.

What is a Web Accessibility Policy?

Accessibility Statement: Your Promise to Visitors

Have you ever noticed a link that says “Accessibility” at the bottom of a website? That’s usually an accessibility statement. Think of it as your friendly promise to visitors that your website is designed to be easy for everyone to use.

A good accessibility statement:
- Clearly shows you care about accessibility.
- Shares exactly how accessible your website currently is (like meeting WCAG 2.1 AA standards).
- Gives easy ways for visitors to ask for help or report problems.
This statement helps visitors feel welcome and shows you’re serious about meeting their needs.

Accessibility Policy vs. Accessibility Statement: What’s the Real Difference?

Here’s a quick way to remember the difference:
- Accessibility Statement: Short, public, and visitor-focused. It’s your friendly promise to website users.
- Accessibility Policy: Detailed, internal, and team-focused. It guides your team on exactly how to keep your site accessible, including who does what and when.
Both are important. The statement lets visitors know you care, and the policy helps your team keep that promise.

Creating a Strong Accessibility Policy

Pick Clear Standards

Avoid vague promises like “fully accessible.” Instead, choose clear guidelines, such as WCAG 2.1 Level AA. These give your team specific targets to reach. If your site lets users add their own content, include guidelines like ATAG (Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines).

Clear standards help your team know exactly what’s expected.

Clearly Assign Responsibilities

Make it easy for everyone to know who does what:
- Choose an accessibility lead or form a team from different areas like design, content, and web development.
- Schedule regular checks (monthly or quarterly) to catch problems early.
- Set up simple ways for users to report issues and quickly decide who will respond to these reports.
Involve Everyone in Your Organization

Accessibility isn’t just for tech teams—it’s for everyone. Teams like marketing, communications, and HR also need to understand basic accessibility. Include accessibility checkpoints in everyday work, like project plans, content creation, and contracts.

Keep an Eye on Third-Party Tools and Vendors

Sometimes outside software or tools can accidentally create accessibility barriers. Avoid this by:
- Checking accessibility before buying new software or services.
- Asking vendors for proof of their products’ accessibility (like a VPAT).
- Clearly stating accessibility requirements in your contracts.
Putting Your Web Accessibility Policy Into Action

Set Clear Goals and Deadlines

Set achievable goals with clear deadlines. For example, you might aim to reach basic accessibility standards in six months and higher standards within a year. Clearly write down each task and assign it to specific people.

Keep Your Policy Up-to-Date

Accessibility standards change over time. Regularly review your policy every 6 to 12 months. Stay informed about new guidelines by joining webinars, reading blogs, or participating in workshops.

Building an Accessibility-Friendly Culture

Your ultimate goal is to make accessibility feel natural and positive in your organization. Encourage your team to see accessibility as part of good design—not as something extra or limiting.

Celebrate successes, reward good work, and encourage ongoing learning about accessibility.

Conclusion

Creating a web accessibility policy isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing commitment to fairness and inclusion. By clearly setting goals, involving your entire organization, and keeping an eye on outside tools, you make your site truly welcoming for everyone.

Need help getting started or improving your policy? 216digital can support you. We provide accessibility audits, policy creation help, and ongoing support to make sure your website stays welcoming for all visitors. Reach out to 216digital today—let’s make your website inclusive, accessible, and successful together!
Greg McNeil

February 28, 2025

Web Accessibility Training

Accessibility, accessibility policy, accessibility statement, Web Accessibility, 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
Why is Web Accessibility Training Important?

So, you’ve engaged with a web remediation specialist and improved your website’s digital inclusivity. What’s next? To avoid moving backward and introducing new accessibility barriers, your team should attend an accessibility training session. Let’s discuss why digital accessibility and accessibility training are so important and how they can benefit not only your users but also your business.

What is Digital Accessibility?

Digital accessibility refers to making websites, applications, and other digital content usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. A wide range of disabilities may impact user experience, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, and neurological disabilities. By ensuring that your digital content is accessible, you’re making it possible for all users to navigate, understand, and interact with your website.

Why Does Web Accessibility Matter?

Inclusivity and Equality

At its core, digital accessibility is about inclusivity and equality. The internet should be a place where everyone can participate, regardless of their abilities. By making your website accessible, you’re promoting equal access to information and services for all users.

Legal Requirements

The United States has legal requirements to ensure websites are accessible. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act are two critical pieces of legislation that mandate accessibility. Failing to comply with these laws can result in legal action, fines, and damage to your reputation.

Business Benefits

Accessible websites can reach a larger audience. According to the World Health Organization, over one billion people, or about 16% of the world’s population, have some form of disability. By making your website accessible, you’re doing the right thing and tapping into a significant market. Additionally, accessible websites tend to have better SEO, which can lead to higher search engine rankings and increased traffic.

Enhanced User Experience

Accessibility features often improve everyone’s overall user experience. For example, captions on videos can benefit users in noisy environments, and clear, simple navigation can help users find information more quickly.

What is Accessibility Training?

Although many web platforms strive to build accessibility into their products, it is still essential for anyone who modifies the site to pursue training on how to avoid introducing accessibility barriers. This training covers a wide range of topics, from understanding the needs of people with disabilities to implementing specific accessibility features on a website.

The Importance of Accessibility Training

Understanding User Needs

Accessibility training helps you understand the diverse needs of your users. By learning about the different types of disabilities and how they affect how people interact with digital content, you can create more inclusive websites.

Staying Up-to-Date with Best Practices

The field of digital accessibility is constantly evolving. New technologies and standards are continually being developed to improve accessibility. Accessibility training ensures you stay up-to-date with the latest best practices and guidelines.

Improving Technical Skills

Accessibility training can enhance your technical skills as a developer. You’ll learn to implement accessibility features, such as alt text for images, keyboard navigation, and screen reader compatibility. These skills enhance your website and make you a more versatile and valuable developer.

Avoiding Legal Issues

As mentioned earlier, there are legal requirements for web accessibility. Accessibility training helps you understand these laws and helps avoid frivolous lawsuits. Being proactive can help you avoid legal issues, associated costs, and reputational damage.

Critical Components of Accessibility Training

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

The WCAG is a set of guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure accessible web content to people with disabilities. Accessibility training covers these guidelines, including the four principles of accessibility: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR).

Assistive Technologies

Training includes information on various assistive technologies, such as screen readers, braille displays, and speech recognition software. Understanding how these technologies work is crucial for creating accessible content.

Practical Implementation

Accessibility training provides practical, hands-on experience with implementing accessibility features. Common concepts include writing accessible code, providing text alternatives for graphical content, and testing your website for accessibility.

User Testing

User testing is an essential part of accessibility training. You’ll learn how to conduct accessibility audits and usability testing with people with disabilities. Through user testing, you can identify any accessibility issues and proactively remove accessibility barriers.

How to Get Started with Accessibility Training

Online Courses

216digital includes accessibility training in every web remediation project. When we evaluate your website, we have an excellent opportunity to understand your team’s specific processes and can develop tailored training that is highly targeted and easy to follow.

Professional Certifications

Earning a professional certification in accessibility can enhance your skills and credibility. Certifications such as the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) and the Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) are recognized in the industry.

Join Accessibility Communities

Joining accessibility communities can provide support and resources as you learn about digital accessibility. Websites like WebAIM (Web Accessibility In Mind) and the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative offer forums, articles, and guidelines to help you stay informed.

Hands-On Practice

The best way to learn about accessibility is through hands-on practice. Start by conducting an accessibility audit of your website and implementing the necessary changes. Use tools like the WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool) and Google Lighthouse to test your website and identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Digital accessibility is not just a legal requirement but a moral obligation. By making your website accessible, you’re ensuring that everyone can access and interact with your content regardless of their abilities. Accessibility training is crucial in this process, providing you with the knowledge and skills to create inclusive digital experiences.

Investing in accessibility training benefits your users, your business, and society. It enhances the user experience, expands your audience, and helps you avoid costly litigation. As website owners, developers, and content creators, it’s our responsibility to make the web a more accessible place for everyone.

So, take the first step today. 216digital has accessibility experts on deck, ready to help with all your accessibility needs. Your users will thank you, and you’ll be contributing to a more inclusive digital world.

Greg McNeil

July 25, 2024

Web Accessibility Training

Accessibility, Accessibility Training, ADA Compliance, Web Accessibility Training, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools

How Digital Accessibility Training Reduces Legal Risk

Why Accessibility Isn’t “One and Done”

The Legal Stakes: Second-Time Lawsuits Are Surging

Training Makes You Proactive, Not Dependent

It’s Not Just the ADA Anymore

Why Training Costs Less (and Does More) Than You Think

What 216digital’s Training Really Looks Like

Who Needs to Be Trained?

A Human Approach That Actually Sticks

The Bottom Line: Keep What You’ve Built

Who Needs Web Accessibility Training?

Why Broader Accessibility Training Matters

Who Should Learn—and What They Need to Know

1. Executives and Senior Leaders

2. Designers and UX Teams

3. Developers and Engineers

4. Content Creators and Editors

5. Marketers and Social Media Managers

6. Quality‑Assurance Testers

7. Product and Project Managers

8. Customer Support Teams

Building a Culture of Learning

Choosing the Right Accessibility Training Format

Measuring Success

Overcoming Common Roadblocks

Getting Started: A Quick Action Plan

Equip Your Team, Elevate Your Experience

Accessibility Training That Moves Teams Forward

How to Make Your Marketing More Accessible

Why Accessibility Matters in Marketing

Grow Your Audience—Organically

Improve Your Brand’s Credibility

Get a Natural SEO Boost

Stay Compliant and Reduce Risk

Website Accessibility Tips

Make Your Content Easy to Navigate

Always Add Alt Text to Images

Use Clear Language and Short Sentences

Check Keyboard Navigation and Focus Indicators

Be Careful With Animated Content

Social Media Accessibility Best Practices

Alt Text Isn’t Just for Websites

Format Hashtags Clearly

Limit Emoji Usage

Multimedia Accessibility Strategies

Use Captions and Transcripts

Add Audio Descriptions

Making Accessibility a Habit

Make Accessibility Part of Your Workflow

Regularly Improve

Closing the Conversion Gap

The Dos and Don’ts of Crafting a Web Accessibility Policy

What is a Web Accessibility Policy?

Accessibility Statement: Your Promise to Visitors

Accessibility Policy vs. Accessibility Statement: What’s the Real Difference?

Creating a Strong Accessibility Policy

Pick Clear Standards

Clearly Assign Responsibilities

Involve Everyone in Your Organization

Keep an Eye on Third-Party Tools and Vendors

Putting Your Web Accessibility Policy Into Action

Set Clear Goals and Deadlines

Keep Your Policy Up-to-Date

Building an Accessibility-Friendly Culture

Conclusion

Accessibility Remediation: Definitions & Guidelines

Key Terminology in Accessibility Remediation

Usability

Remediation

Compliance

Auditing

User Testing

Assistive Technologies

Screen Reader

Keyboard Navigation

Alternative Content

Accessibility Overlay

Accessibility Monitoring

Compliance Standards and Laws

W3C (World Wide Web Consortium)