Accessibility Archives - Page 2 of 20/Tag

ADA Compliance for State and Local Governments
A resident tried to renew their license, apply for benefits, or register to vote. They found the page—but the form wouldn’t load properly. The labels were missing, the buttons didn’t work with their keyboard, or the error messages didn’t make sense. After a few tries, they gave up. Frustrated, unheard, and now one step further from the help they needed.

It’s not a rare story.

When digital government services don’t work for everyone—especially for people using assistive technology—the problem cuts deeper than bad UX. It means someone in your community got left out of a public service. Maybe they missed a deadline. Maybe they called your office, overwhelmed and confused. Or maybe they didn’t say a word, just silently lost faith that their government sees them.

ADA compliance isn’t a nice-to-have or a compliance checkbox. It’s how public agencies build trust, deliver on their mission, and make sure no one gets shut out. And while it can feel like one more thing on a very long list—it’s not out of reach. Even with tight budgets, limited time, and a small team, meaningful progress is possible.

Start at the Foundation: Build In, Don’t Bolt On

Your website is probably the front door to half your services. License renewals, benefit applications, emergency alerts—it all lives online now. So when that door doesn’t open for someone using a screen reader or navigating with a keyboard, the message is clear: this wasn’t built for you.

And that kind of message doesn’t just frustrate users—it breaks down trust. It also creates extra work for your staff, drives up support requests, and opens the door to compliance issues. It’s a lose-lose.

The good news? You don’t need a blank slate or a full redesign to make things better. Start where you are, work with what you’ve got, and shift the mindset from “we’ll fix it later” to “let’s make this part of how we work.”

What the Law Actually Says (And Why It’s Not Just About Lawsuits)

Let’s clear up the legal side. Yes, digital accessibility is required—and yes, those requirements have recently gotten more specific.

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act now includes digital services. As of April 2024, the DOJ’s final rule requires public sector websites and digital tools to follow WCAG 2.1, Level A and AA. That gives you a defined standard—and frankly, a clearer path forward.

Then there’s Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which applies to any public service receiving federal funds. If your agency touches education, healthcare, or housing, this rule probably applies to you too.

And don’t forget the state-level picture. States like California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Illinois have passed their own accessibility laws, some of which go further than federal standards.

Still, accessibility isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble. It’s about showing residents that your agency is committed to fair access—online, offline, everywhere. Compliance is important. But inclusion is what makes the effort worthwhile.

WCAG Sounds Complex—But It Boils Down to Four Core Ideas

You don’t have to memorize the entire Web Content Accessibility Guidelines to start improving accessibility. At its core, WCAG is built on four principles—think of them as your north star:
- Perceivable: Can people see or hear the content?
- Operable: Can they interact with it using a keyboard, screen reader, or voice commands?
- Understandable: Is the information clear, consistent, and logical?
- Robust: Does the site work across different browsers, assistive tech, and platforms?
When you keep these in mind while building or updating a digital tool, you’re already making smarter choices.

Okay, But How Do You Start with ADA Compliance?

Let’s say you don’t have a dedicated accessibility specialist. Maybe your web team is small. Maybe you wear six hats and accessibility feels like a seventh. Here’s how to make headway anyway:

Use tools that do the first pass for you.

Platforms like WAVE, axe, and Google Lighthouse can scan your site for issues like missing alt text, poor color contrast, and unlabeled form fields. These won’t catch everything, but they’ll give you a solid to-do list—especially for easy wins that make a big difference.

Triage by Traffic

Start with the digital spaces that matter most: your homepage, your most-used forms, and any system residents rely on during an emergency. These are the areas where accessibility problems cause the biggest real-world consequences—and where fixes bring the biggest impact.

Teach What Matters To The People Who Touch the Work.

ADA compliance isn’t just an IT concern. Content editors need to know how to structure text. Designers need to understand color contrast and readable fonts. Even procurement officers should be including accessibility language in contracts. A little role-specific training goes a long way.

Make It Routine, Not A One-time Fix

Build ADA compliance into your processes—not just your projects. Add it to your publishing checklist. Review older content during updates. Make it part of procurement, design reviews, and form testing. When it becomes second nature, you avoid the scramble later.

The Payoff Isn’t Just ADA Compliance—It’s Better Public Service

ADA compliance improves your service delivery across the board. It helps more people use your tools the way they were intended—without needing to call, email, or show up in person. It also reduces the burden on your staff and helps build public trust.

And yes, there are cost benefits. When you design with accessibility from the beginning, you avoid expensive rework and reduce your legal exposure. But even more than that, you create digital spaces that feel fair, usable, and modern—qualities your community notices.

You Don’t Have to Do It All Today—Just Take the First Step

If you’re still thinking, “We’re not ready,” that’s okay. You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight. ADA compliance is a journey—and the first steps are often the most impactful.

Start with what you can. Get curious about what’s working (and what’s not). Loop in the people who use your site. And if you need help? Ask for it.

At 216digital, we offer ADA briefings, a simple, no-pressure way to understand your obligations, identify risks, and plan your next steps.Because digital inclusion isn’t just a standard to meet—it’s a way to serve your community better.
Greg McNeil

July 10, 2025

Legal Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Title II, ADA Website Compliance, state accessibility laws, Title II, Website Accessibility
When Should Agencies Talk to Clients About Web Accessibility Solutions?
If you’re running a small to mid-size digital agency, you’re used to juggling a lot. Creative direction, project management, client communications, SEO strategy, user experience—the list goes on. And somewhere in that mix, web accessibility often gets lost in the shuffle.

Not because it isn’t important. But because it’s not always obvious where it fits. Should you bring it up during the proposal phase? Wait until design reviews? Or tackle it after launch if an issue comes up?

Here’s the thing: the best time to introduce agency accessibility solutions isn’t “someday.” It’s early. Really early. And the earlier you bring it into the conversation, the easier it becomes to integrate—not just for your client, but for your team, too.

Let’s walk through how accessibility fits naturally into each phase of your process—and how to talk about it in a way that builds trust and positions your agency as a smart, forward-thinking partner.

Start the Conversation About Agency Accessibility Solutions

Accessibility belongs in the earliest conversations you’re having with a client—ideally, during discovery or project planning. When you’re already talking about audience personas, site goals, and technical scope, you’re laying the groundwork for how the entire site will function. This is the perfect opportunity to ask questions like:
- “Do any of your users rely on assistive technology like screen readers or voice navigation?”
- “Are there any compliance requirements or accessibility goals we should be aware of?”
- “Have you ever received feedback from users about accessibility challenges?”
These questions show your client that you’re thinking holistically about their audience. More importantly, you’re helping them see accessibility as a core part of usability and performance—not just a legal concern.

Pro move: include accessibility as a dedicated line item in your proposals. Whether it’s a basic audit, foundational best practices, or a plan for ongoing improvements, showing it in writing reinforces that it’s not optional or extra—it’s essential.

Revisit It During Design Reviews

Design is often where accessibility either starts strong—or goes sideways.

Color palettes, typography, button sizes, spacing—all of these choices affect users with low vision, motor impairments, or cognitive conditions. If you wait until development to flag issues like poor contrast or illegible fonts, you’ll either eat the cost of rework or risk pushing an inaccessible product live.

Instead, build in design checkpoints where agency accessibility solutions are part of the feedback loop. Help clients understand how design decisions translate to real-world usability. For example:
- A gorgeous but pale color scheme might look sleek on a high-end display, but disappear for users with low vision.
- Overly custom cursors or animations may cause issues for people with cognitive sensitivities or motion triggers.
- Fonts without clear letterforms can reduce readability for users with dyslexia or processing disorders.
You’re not just protecting the project from costly changes later—you’re showing the client that good design and accessible design aren’t mutually exclusive. They’re one and the same.

Simple framing tip: “When we design with more users in mind, we increase engagement and reduce support friction. It’s a win for everyone.”

Build Accessibility into Development (Not After)

By the time you hit development, things are moving fast—templates are being coded, features implemented, content loaded. This is where your accessibility groundwork either holds or starts to crack.

Make sure your dev team is on board with basic accessibility practices: semantic HTML, proper heading structure, image alt text, and keyboard-friendly components. These aren’t just nice to have—they’re baseline standards.

And keep your client in the loop, even if you’re not getting deep into technical details. It builds confidence to say:

“We’re coding with accessibility in mind—clean structure, screen reader compatibility, and keyboard navigation all included. If we run into any areas that need custom attention, we’ll flag them and talk through next steps.”

This is also a good time to set expectations around scope. Interactive elements, third-party plugins, or advanced UI components might require extra time to test or fix. It’s better to raise those flags now than scramble after launch.

And yes, it’s still a great place to talk about your agency accessibility solutions and how they support long-term site performance and compliance.

Post-Launch Is Just the Beginning

A successful launch doesn’t mean your work is done—and when it comes to accessibility, it often signals the start of new conversations.

This is when real users interact with the site. It’s also when clients might hear from a frustrated customer, an internal stakeholder with a disability, or worse—receive a demand letter related to ADA compliance.

If you’ve already laid the foundation, your client is more likely to come back to you, not panic-Google another vendor.

Stay proactive. Offer optional post-launch agency accessibility solutions like:
- Quarterly accessibility reviews
- Ongoing monitoring
- Manual and automated testing
- Remediation support and training for content editors
Even light support here builds long-term trust and positions your agency as a reliable, growth-minded partner.

Key message to share: “Accessibility isn’t a one-and-done task. As your site evolves, we’re here to make sure it continues to work for everyone.”

When Legal Risk Enters the Chat

Sometimes, accessibility becomes a priority only after a client gets a legal scare. It’s not ideal—but it’s increasingly common.

In the U.S., accessibility lawsuits have surged in recent years, many of them targeting small and mid-size businesses. And many of those cases are driven by law firms looking for fast settlements, not actual user advocacy.

If a client comes to you in a panic, your role is to stay calm and solutions-oriented. Let them know:
- You’ve handled situations like this before.
- You can help them assess the site’s current status with a thorough audit.
- You’ll work with them to document a remediation roadmap.
- You have trusted partners (or in-house experts) who can assist if the legal stakes escalate.
Your ability to guide them through this process—not with fear, but with structured, proven agency accessibility solutions—can turn a stressful moment into a stronger long-term relationship.

Helpful tone: “You’re not the first to face this, and you’re not on your own. Let’s take smart steps together.”

Make Agency Accessibility Solutions the Default

Ultimately, accessibility should be a standard part of how your agency delivers quality websites—not a surprise line item or reactive fix.

By talking about agency accessibility solutions early and revisiting them often, you’re helping clients:
- Avoid costly legal issues
- Reach broader audiences
- Improve overall usability and performance
- Build reputations as inclusive, thoughtful brands
You don’t have to be an accessibility expert on day one. But you do need to know when—and how—to start the conversation.

Because accessibility isn’t just good practice. It’s good business. And it shows that your agency isn’t just building websites—you’re building experiences that work for everyone.

Ready to Make Accessibility Part of Your Process?

At 216digital, we help agencies like yours turn accessibility into a strategic advantage. From audits to remediation, monitoring to team training, we offer flexible solutions that scale with your projects and support your client relationships.

Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital, and let’s make every build a little more inclusive—together.
Greg McNeil

June 27, 2025

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, agency accessibility solutions, digital agency, Website Accessibility
How to Design Accessible Icons that Users Love
Icons are everywhere—on mobile apps, websites, dashboards, and devices. They’re small, but they do big things. Icons help us find a menu, delete a file, or save something for later. Designers love them for good reason: they’re stylish, space-saving, and often universal. But here’s the question—are they really accessible to everyone?

It’s easy to focus on how icons look, but what about how they function for people using screen readers, people with low vision, or anyone who relies on keyboard navigation? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and challenges of using icons, the common accessibility mistakes, and the steps designers and developers can take to create accessible icons that improve user experience without sacrificing style.

Why Icons Matter (Beyond Aesthetics)

Well-designed icons help users make sense of content faster. According to research aligned with WCAG guidance, familiar icons can support users with reading or cognitive challenges by serving as helpful visual cues. A simple “trash can” icon can quickly signal delete. A “magnifying glass” screams search. When paired with labels, these accessible icons create a faster and clearer experience for all users.

Saving Space on Smaller Screens

Icons also shine when space is tight—especially on mobile. Instead of cramming menus or actions into text links, icons can simplify the interface and reduce visual clutter. When used thoughtfully, accessible icons help you keep things clean while making the site easier to use.

Common Accessibility Challenges with Icons

Ambiguity: One Icon, Many Meanings

Icons aren’t always as clear as we think. A heart icon might mean “like,” “save,” or “favorite.” Without proper labeling, users may misinterpret its purpose. WCAG requires that all non-text elements, including icons, have text alternatives that clearly explain what they do. Accessible icons must carry meaning that’s clear—both visually and programmatically.

Decorative Icons That Get in the Way

Not every icon needs to be “read.” Some are purely decorative—like flourishes in a logo or background design. But if these aren’t properly hidden from screen readers, they add clutter and confusion. WCAG recommends using aria-hidden= "true" or similar methods to hide decorative icons. That way, screen reader users don’t have to sift through unnecessary details.

Size, Contrast, and Clickability

Icons that are too small or faint are hard to see or click—especially for users with motor or vision challenges. WCAG suggests a touch target size of at least 44×44 pixels. Icons should also meet contrast guidelines (at least a 3:1 ratio against the background). And if someone’s using a keyboard to navigate, your icons must have clear focus indicators and be easy to tab to.

Best Practices for Creating Accessible Icons

1. Label Every Interactive Icon

Icons that do something—like opening a menu or submitting a form—need a clear label. You can add a visible text label, a hidden <span> for screen readers, or an aria-label attribute. For example:
```
<button aria-label= "Open menu">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24" role="img">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
This makes sure your accessible icons work for both sighted and non-sighted users.

2. Hide Decorative Icons Properly

If an icon doesn’t add meaning, it shouldn’t be read by assistive technology. Use:
```
<span aria-hidden="true">
  <svg></svg>
</span>
```
Or:
```
<svg role="presentation"></svg>
```
This keeps screen reader output clean and focused on relevant content.

3. Pay Attention to Size, Contrast, and Focus

Accessible icons should be big enough to click easily and bold enough to see. Stick to WCAG’s minimum target size of 44×44 px. Use color contrast of at least 3:1 for non-text icons. And don’t forget to add a visible focus style for keyboard users—like a border or shadow:
```
button:focus {
  outline: 2px solid #000;
  outline-offset: 2px;
}
```
4. Stay Consistent

Use the same icon for the same action across your site. If a magnifying glass opens search in one place, don’t use it for zoom somewhere else. Consistency helps users feel confident in what each icon means—and that’s what accessible icons are all about.

5. Avoid Icon Fonts and Emojis

While they may seem handy, icon fonts can confuse screen readers. Emojis can also be read out in unexpected ways. It’s safer and more predictable to use SVG icons with proper labels.

6. Test in the Real World

Use tools like Lighthouse, or WAVE to catch basic issues. Then test manually: try navigating with a keyboard, check screen reader output, and validate that your icons have the right labels and focus states. Real-world testing is essential to making sure your accessible icons actually work.

A Closer Look: Two Icon Examples

The Right Way to Do a Menu Icon

Let’s say you’re building a mobile menu. Instead of just throwing in a hamburger icon, here’s how to make it accessible:
```
<button aria-label= "Open menu">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
With proper labeling, contrast, sizing, and keyboard focus styles, this is a perfect example of accessible icons done right.

Clarifying a Heart Icon

Got a heart icon to save a product? Don’t leave users guessing. Add supporting text:
```
<button aria-label= "Save to favorites">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
This helps screen readers speak the correct action and helps all users understand what it does.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Icon Accessibility

Think Global

Icons don’t always mean the same thing across cultures. Something that makes sense in the U.S. may not be clear in Japan or Brazil. When designing accessible icons, test with a global audience if your site serves one.

Customize and Personalize

If you’re creating custom icons for your brand, take extra care with labeling and testing. Better yet, offer users the ability to switch between icons, text, or both—especially for key actions. It’s all about giving people choices that fit their needs.

Final Thoughts: Make Icons That Include Everyone

Icons are powerful little tools. They help us move faster, understand more, and make the web a little smoother. But for them to work for everyone, they need to be designed with care.

That means using accessible icons that have clear labels, hiding decorative ones, following size and contrast rules, being consistent, and testing thoroughly. These steps don’t take away from good design—they enhance it.

At 216digital, we work with design and development teams to review their UI patterns and create accessible experiences—icons included. If you’re ready to take the next step in making your digital spaces more inclusive, let’s talk. Schedule your ADA accessibility briefing today and let us help you turn thoughtful design into inclusive action.
Greg McNeil

June 26, 2025

How-to Guides

Accessibility, Accessible Design, ADA Compliance, Graphic Designer, How-to, Website Accessibility
How EAA Enforcement Works Across the EU
If you’re hearing more about the European Accessibility Act (EAA) lately, you’re not alone—and you’re right to be paying attention. With the June 28, 2025 enforcement date around the corner, many U.S. businesses are starting to wonder: Does this apply to us? Are we at risk if we’re not in compliance?

The short answer? Not necessarily—but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

The EAA is a major development in digital accessibility law for the European Union, and while it’s not a global regulation, it can impact U.S.-based companies that offer products or services to EU customers. For others, it’s simply a signal of where global accessibility expectations are headed.

This article breaks down what the EAA actually is, who needs to comply, how enforcement works, and how to determine whether it applies to your business. No panic, no guesswork—just the facts and a clear path forward.

Setting the Stage: What Is the EAA?

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is an EU directive focused on improving digital and product accessibility for people with disabilities across member states. It’s designed to standardize accessibility expectations throughout the EU, ensuring equal access to services like banking, transportation, e-commerce, and more.

The law goes into effect on June 28, 2025, and several EU countries are already working to align their national laws accordingly. For companies operating in the EU, this is a significant compliance milestone.

But here’s the key point: The EAA only applies to businesses that actively do business in the European Union.

Who the EAA Applies To—and Who It Doesn’t

The EAA’s core goal is to eliminate digital accessibility barriers. Whether someone is shopping online, checking into a flight, reading an eBook, or using a mobile banking app, the EAA ensures people with disabilities in the EU can participate fully in everyday digital life.

Does the EAA Apply to U.S. Businesses?

In short: Only if you’re engaging directly with EU customers.

The EAA is not a global requirement. It’s meant for companies that:
- Operate physically or digitally within the EU,
- Market or sell directly to consumers in EU countries, or
- Offer digital services like online platforms or mobile apps in the EU marketplace.
So, if your business has no EU offices, no EU-based clientele, and no intention to serve EU consumers, the EAA doesn’t apply to you.

What About Small Businesses?

Even within the EU, microenterprises—those with fewer than 10 employees and less than €2 million in annual revenue—are exempt. That’s important for U.S. startups and solopreneurs wondering if having a website puts them on the hook. It doesn’t.

What the EAA Actually Requires

If your organization does conduct business in the EU, here’s what compliance looks like:

Covered Products and Services

The EAA applies to a wide range of digital goods and services, such as:
- Online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms
- Mobile apps and websites
- Digital banking interfaces and ATMs
- Public transport booking systems
- eBooks and reading devices
- Ticketing machines and self-service kiosks
Accessibility Standards

Compliance requires aligning with EN 301 549, which references WCAG 2.1 Level AA—a familiar standard in the U.S.

That means your content and digital tools should be:
- Perceivable: Understandable with assistive technologies
- Operable: Usable with various input methods like keyboards
- Understandable: Clear, predictable layouts and instructions
- Robust: Functional across devices and platforms
Accessibility Statements

EAA-compliant websites and apps must also include an accessibility statement that communicates the site’s current accessibility status, outlines any known limitations, and provides a channel for users to request support or report issues.

How EAA Enforcement Actually Works

EAA enforcement isn’t handled at the EU level. Instead, each member state enforces the EAA independently, with its own authority, procedures, and penalty structures. That means the experience—and consequences—can vary from country to country.

Here are a few notable examples:
- France: Handled by Défenseur des droits, with fines up to €250,000
- Germany: Managed by BFIT-Bund and regional bodies; penalties from €10,000 to €500,000
- Ireland: Overseen by the National Disability Authority; up to €60,000 in fines or imprisonment in serious cases
- Italy: Governed by AgID; fines can reach €25,000
- Spain: Managed by OADIS and regional authorities; penalties as high as €600,000
A Word to Multinational Businesses

If your business spans multiple EU countries, EAA enforcement can get complex. Each jurisdiction may interpret the directive differently, making early planning essential for smooth, consistent compliance.

What U.S. Businesses Should Actually Do

Now that you have a clearer picture, here’s how to assess your next steps.

1. Evaluate Your Exposure

Ask yourself:
- Do you sell to or serve customers in the EU?
- Do you offer a localized site or support EU languages?
- Are your apps available in EU-based app stores?
If the answer is yes, EAA compliance is likely necessary. If not, you’re likely outside its scope—but staying informed is still a wise move.

2. Take Practical (Not Panicked) Steps

If you do engage with the EU market, now is the time to:
- Audit digital products for WCAG 2.1 Level AA alignment
- Fix known accessibility issues (navigation, color contrast, labeling, etc.)
- Publish an accessibility statement
- Document your efforts for accountability
And if you’re unsure where to start, bring in accessibility experts. The right support can help you avoid missteps, reduce liability, and stay aligned with country-specific EAA enforcement requirements.

3. Remember: Accessibility Is a Business Advantage

Even if the EAA doesn’t apply to you now, accessibility is still a smart investment. It can:
- Broaden your customer reach
- Improve usability and search engine performance
- Build long-term brand trust and loyalty
- Help you stay ahead of evolving legal and market expectations
And in the U.S., digital accessibility remains a legal risk under the ADA. Proactive improvements made today could save you from future challenges—at home and abroad.

Looking Ahead: Stay Aware, Not Alarmed

The European Accessibility Act represents a shift in global digital accessibility expectations—but that doesn’t mean every U.S. business needs to overhaul its operations overnight. If your company doesn’t operate in the EU or serve EU-based customers, this law likely doesn’t apply to you.

Still, moments like this are valuable reminders. They give forward-thinking businesses a chance to pause, evaluate, and strengthen their digital experiences—not just for compliance but for the real people who rely on accessible technology every day.

Whether you need to take immediate steps or want to stay ahead of future regulations, the smartest move is to stay informed and be proactive. Accessibility isn’t about reacting to legal threats—it’s about building resilient, inclusive digital experiences that serve everyone, everywhere.

Need clarity on where you stand or how to move forward? Let 216digital help you navigate accessibility with confidence and purpose.
Greg McNeil

June 25, 2025

Legal Compliance

2025, Accessibility, EAA, European Accessibility Act, Legal compliance, Website Accessibility
Build Accessibility In, Don’t Bolt It On
A brand-new website can feel polished and future-proof—right up until someone with a screen reader runs into a dead-end menu or a keyboard user can’t tab past the hero banner. Suddenly the “finished” project is back on the operating table, costing hours (and budget) you’d already spent elsewhere.

When accessibility planning is woven into the first brainstorm—alongside color palettes, user flows, and content themes—those last-minute scrambles disappear. Decisions get crisper, code stays cleaner, and every visitor, regardless of ability, enjoys the same smooth path through your pages.

Think of accessibility less as decorative trim and more as the blueprint that holds the whole structure together. Start with it, build on it, and you’ll launch faster, spend less, and welcome more people from day one.

What Does “Bolting It On” Look Like?

Many organizations treat accessibility like a retrofit. The site is already built, the design is approved, and the content is live. Only then does someone say, “Wait—what about screen reader support? What about color contrast? What if this form can’t be used with a keyboard?”

Now you’re in damage control. Fixing accessibility issues post-launch can require rewriting code, redesigning components, and delaying updates. Even worse, you may be stuck with baked-in barriers that are difficult or costly to correct. For example:
- Rebuilding menus that were designed without keyboard navigation in mind
- Rewriting interactive components that don’t support screen readers
- Replacing an entire color palette because contrast ratios fail WCAG
Accessibility planning means thinking about inclusion as you sketch wireframes, select a CMS, or build your first component. It means your developers write semantic HTML, your designers test color contrast before finalizing a palette, and your content creators write with clarity and structure.

When accessibility planning is part of the DNA of your project, you get better results—faster and with fewer surprises.

Accessibility Planning = Smart, Strategic Design

Now imagine the opposite scenario: your team is starting a new project or redesign. Right at the beginning, you ask:
- Who are our users, and what diverse needs do they have?
- Are we designing this interface to be usable without a mouse?
- Can our color and font choices work for users with low vision or dyslexia?
- Are we writing alt text for images, and using descriptive link text?
- Is this form easy to complete using assistive technology?
These questions don’t slow you down. They guide your decisions from the ground up.

Accessibility planning means thinking about inclusion as you sketch wireframes, select a CMS, or build your first component. It means your developers write semantic HTML, your designers test color contrast before finalizing a palette, and your content creators write with clarity and structure.

When accessibility is part of the DNA of your project, you get better results—faster and with fewer surprises.

6 Stages Where Accessibility Belongs

Here’s how to build accessibility into your process, stage by stage:

1. Discovery and Strategy

Before any code or design work begins, include accessibility planning as a strategic priority. Define your target users, including those with disabilities. Document accessibility goals and requirements as part of your project scope.

Make accessibility a deliverable—not an afterthought.

2. UX and Visual Design

Design with inclusivity in mind. That means:
- High contrast color palettes
- Clear visual hierarchy
- Large, legible typography
- Components that look good and function well with assistive tech
- Clear focus indicators and logical navigation
Don’t assume visual design is just aesthetics—it impacts usability for everyone.

3. Content Creation

Content creators play a major role in accessibility planning. They should:
- Use descriptive headings and meaningful subheadings
- Write clear, concise link text (“Download the annual report” instead of “Click here”)
- Provide transcripts or captions for audio and video
- Write meaningful alt text for important images
Training your content team on accessibility saves hours of rewriting down the road.

4. Front-End Development

This is where accessibility really comes alive. Developers should use:
- Semantic HTML (correct use of <nav>, <button>, <label>, etc.)
- ARIA labels only when needed—not as a shortcut for poor structure
- Keyboard operability for all interactive elements
- Logical tab order and skip navigation links
Accessibility-friendly code isn’t just better for screen readers—it’s more resilient, scalable, and SEO-friendly too.

5. Testing and QA

Accessibility testing isn’t just automated. While tools like Lighthouse, or WAVE help flag obvious issues, real users and manual testing are critical.
- Test with screen readers like NVDA or VoiceOver
- Navigate your site using only a keyboard
- Check forms for proper labels and error handling
- Test responsiveness and zoom up to 200%
Bring in users with disabilities if possible. Their feedback is irreplaceable.

6. Launch and Maintenance

Accessibility doesn’t stop at launch. It’s an ongoing effort. As you add new features or content, revisit your accessibility standards. Schedule regular audits. Monitor legal developments. Consider automated tools like a11y.Radar for early issue detection.

The Human Side of Accessibility

It’s easy to talk about accessibility in technical terms, but at its core, it’s about people.

Think about someone using a screen reader to access your site. Or someone with motor limitations who can’t use a mouse. Or someone dealing with temporary impairments—a broken wrist, eye strain, or even just a noisy environment where audio isn’t practical.

Building accessibility in from the start isn’t about compliance for its own sake. It’s about treating all users with dignity. It’s about believing that digital spaces should work for everyone, regardless of ability.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even with good intentions, teams can fall into these traps:
- Assuming accessibility is only the developer’s job: Accessibility is a shared responsibility across design, content, and engineering.
- Waiting until the QA phase: Accessibility can’t be “tested in” at the end. It must be designed and developed.
- Relying too much on overlays or plugins: Widgets don’t fix inaccessible code. In some cases, they create more problems than they solve.
- Failing to document decisions: Keep a living accessibility checklist. It helps ensure continuity across teams and updates.
Why It Pays Off

Here’s what you gain when you build accessibility in from day one:
- Faster development: Fewer reworks, cleaner code
- Lower costs: Avoid costly redesigns and retrofits
- Happier users: Better usability for everyone, not just people with disabilities
- Improved SEO: Accessibility often overlaps with search best practices
- Reduced legal risk: Stay ahead of ADA and state-level laws like Colorado HB 21-1110
- Stronger brand reputation: Inclusion signals leadership and care
Most importantly, you build a digital presence that welcomes, respects, and serves more people exactly like the web was meant to work.

No Ifs, Ands, or Bugs—Just Accessibility Plans

Accessibility doesn’t belong on a post-launch checklist or in a future phase that never quite gets prioritized. It belongs at the table from day one—when you’re mapping out user journeys, designing components, and writing your very first lines of code.

By making accessibility planning a core part of your workflow, you avoid costly rework, improve overall quality, and create digital experiences that serve more people, more effectively. It’s not about adding more to your plate—it’s about building smarter from the start.

If you’re ready to move from fixing to future-proofing, 216digital can help. Our phased accessibility services are designed to meet you where you are, guide your team, and strengthen your site’s foundation for the long haul. Let’s make accessibility part of how you build—every time.
Greg McNeil

June 20, 2025

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Accessibility testing, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation, web development
Descriptive Page Titles for Better Accessibility
If you’ve ever had 15 tabs open at once (and let’s be honest—who hasn’t?), you know how frustrating it is to click around trying to remember which one is which. When the titles are clear, you can find what you’re looking for in a second. When they’re not, it’s a guessing game.

For users who rely on screen readers or who live with cognitive or memory challenges, vague titles aren’t just annoying. They’re a real barrier. That’s where descriptive page titles come in. They make a huge difference in helping all users navigate the web more easily, and they support your site’s overall usability and accessibility—without requiring a major overhaul.

Best of all, it’s one of the simplest changes you can make that still packs a serious punch. A good page title improves orientation, reduces confusion, boosts your SEO rankings, and even helps reduce legal risk under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All with a few well-chosen words.

What WCAG 2.4.2 Actually Requires

Under WCAG 2.4.2—a Level A requirement in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)—every web page must have a title that clearly describes its topic or purpose. It’s one of the most fundamental accessibility requirements, but it’s also one of the most overlooked.

Simply having a <title> tag isn’t enough. What’s inside that tag matters. A vague or generic title—like “Home” or “Untitled”—does little to help users understand what the page is actually about. It’s a bit like labeling all your folders “Stuff”—no one can navigate that efficiently, especially not users relying on assistive technologies.

This is especially important for screen reader users. Page titles are often read aloud as soon as a page loads or when switching between browser tabs. That brief moment of context helps them know exactly where they are. Similarly, sighted users benefit from meaningful titles when scanning through multiple open tabs or saving bookmarks for later reference.

Who Benefits from Descriptive Page Titles?

The short answer? Everyone. But here’s how it really plays out for different types of users:
- Screen reader users hear the page title as their first introduction. A vague or incorrect title can throw them off or force them to dig deeper than necessary.
- People with cognitive or memory challenges rely on titles to quickly understand whether a page is relevant. A well-written title can prevent information overload and reduce frustration.
- Mobility-impaired users benefit because they can avoid unnecessary clicks or key presses if the title tells them they’re on the wrong page.
- Everyone else—yes, even those without disabilities—appreciates descriptive page titles for the sheer convenience. Clear titles make it easier to navigate tabs, scan bookmarks, and share links confidently.
When a title says exactly what a page delivers, no one has to guess. That’s good usability—and that’s what accessibility is really about.

Common Title Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Even with the best intentions, many websites still fall into title traps. Let’s look at a few common problems:
- Too Vague: Titles like “Home” or “Blog” don’t help much when you’re trying to tell one tab from another.
- Reused Titles: When every blog post or account page is titled the same—like “Monthly Statement”—users lose their place quickly.
- Doesn’t Match the Page: If your title says “Pricing,” but the page is about features or FAQs, that mismatch causes confusion.
- Overloaded for SEO: You’ve seen these: “Best Home Trim Vinyl Windows Outdoor Accessories 2025 Guide.” They’re trying to do too much and end up helping no one.
Better Examples

Consider replacing generic titles with more descriptive ones. For example, swap “Blog Post” with “How to Write Descriptive Page Titles.” You might also change “Services” to “Real World Accessibility | 216digital,” or “Contact” to “Contact Us – 216digital Web Team.”

These small edits bring clarity, build trust, and boost both accessibility and SEO

Accessibility and SEO: They Work Together

There’s a common myth that writing for accessibility hurts SEO—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, descriptive page titles are a perfect example of how accessibility and SEO can work in harmony.

Search engines love pages with relevant, concise, and unique titles. So do people. That means when you follow accessibility best practices, you’re also improving your site’s visibility and user engagement.

Tips for Great Titles
- Keep them between 30–60 characters so they don’t get cut off in search results or browser tabs.
- Use primary keywords naturally, not awkwardly.
- Try using a pattern like: [Page Topic] | [Brand Name].
So, “About” becomes “About Our Team | 216digital” and “Pricing” becomes “Website Accessibility Pricing | 216digital.”

It’s easy to see how small tweaks can have a big payoff.

How to Improve Your Titles—Step by Step

Here’s a quick plan to help you get your titles in shape:

Audit Your Site

Use automated tools to spot missing, duplicate, or unusually long titles. But don’t stop there—manual review is key to catching vague or misleading language that tools might miss.

Apply a Simple Template

Keep it consistent across your site: “[Page Topic] | [Brand]” works for most needs and helps build recognition.

Loop in Your Team

Content creators, developers, designers, and SEO specialists should all care about good descriptive page titles. Make it a shared goal—not an afterthought.

Add it to Your Checklist

Whether you’re launching a new blog post, updating a product page, or doing a site redesign, reviewing the title tag should be part of the process every time.

The Risks of Getting It Wrong

Ignoring this part of accessibility can lead to bigger problems. WCAG 2.4.2 is part of ADA compliance, and missing or misleading titles are often among the first things flagged in accessibility audits. If you’re not in compliance, you could be vulnerable to lawsuits—and nobody wants that.

But beyond legal risk, failing to use descriptive page titles sends the wrong message. It suggests your site wasn’t built with every user in mind. And that hurts brand trust more than you might think.

Final Thoughts: Titles That Work for Everyone

It’s easy to overlook something as small as a page title. But when you take a step back, you’ll see that descriptive page titles affect every part of your site—from how users find you, to how they feel while browsing, to whether they come back at all.

This one fix can make your site more usable, more discoverable, and more inclusive—without blowing up your workflow or budget. That’s what we call a smart move.

Ready to Take Action?

Want help reviewing your site for accessibility wins like this one? Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. We’ll show you how small changes like descriptive page titles can lead to big improvements in compliance, usability, and user trust—no pressure, no hard sell.

Let’s build a web that works for everyone—starting with the title.
Greg McNeil

June 18, 2025

How-to Guides

Accessibility, How-to, Page Titles, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, Web Accessibility, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility
Custom Accessibility Audits: Tailored for Your Website
Most websites aren’t trying to be inaccessible—it just kind of happens. A few plugins here, a third-party widget there, and before you know it, people using screen readers or keyboard navigation are hitting roadblocks you didn’t even know were there.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about where your site stands or thought, “We added a tool—so we’re probably fine,” you’re not alone. But the truth is, real accessibility takes more than a one-click solution. It takes intention, testing, and a plan. And with digital accessibility lawsuits on the rise, ignoring the gaps is more of a liability than ever.

If staying ADA-compliant is your goal, you need more than a quick fix. You need custom accessibility audits, meaningful remediation, and a partner who can help you maintain compliance long-term.

The Real Limitations of Automation Tools

Automated accessibility tools are everywhere, and it’s easy to see the appeal. They promise a quick scan and some instant fixes—like adding alt text, adjusting colors, or offering a text-size toggle. It feels like progress. But these tools can only go so far.

They often miss what really matters: how someone with a disability actually uses your site. Screen readers, keyboard navigation, and cognitive-friendly layouts aren’t things most automation can truly understand or evaluate.

What They Miss (And Why It Matters)

Here are a few areas where automation usually falls short:
- Screen reader experiences: Automated tools won’t tell you if your navigation makes sense when read aloud.
- Keyboard usability: They don’t catch when menus or popups trap users who don’t use a mouse.
- Structural clarity: Bad heading structures or mislabeled buttons often go unnoticed.
- Interactive elements: Modals, forms, and sliders might work visually but break down when tested for accessibility.
Even more concerning? Courts are increasingly ruling that automation alone doesn’t meet ADA requirements. In some cases, relying on overlays without fixing underlying issues can actually increase your legal risk—especially for busy sites that handle transactions. This is why custom accessibility audits remain the gold standard for identifying real, user-impacting issues.

Why Real Testing Still Matters

You can’t fix what you don’t experience—and that’s the heart of manual testing. It’s not just about running a tool and checking boxes. It’s about walking through your site the way someone with a disability might.

That means:
- Navigating with a keyboard and nothing else.
- Using a screen reader to browse your content.
- Testing user flows like logging in, searching, or checking out—without assuming the user can see or use a mouse.
The Kind of Issues Manual Testing Uncovers

This type of testing uncovers issues that automation never will:
- Dropdowns that don’t announce themselves
- Buttons that lack clear, descriptive labels
- Interactive sections that lose focus or confuse navigation
- Forms that look fine visually but are hard to use with assistive tech
At 216digital, we don’t just skim the surface. During custom accessibility audits, we follow real user journeys—from homepage to checkout—so we can see how the experience actually holds up. It’s not about passing a test. It’s about making sure everyone can use your site smoothly.

What Custom Accessibility Audits Really Looks Like

Once you know what’s broken, fixing it takes more than flipping a switch. True remediation means tailoring fixes to your site’s layout, content, and functionality—not applying a generic patch.

That’s why we focus on changes that make a measurable difference for real users. Things like:
- Making sure users can see where their keyboard focus is at all times
- Adding ARIA roles and labels so screen readers can understand what’s on the page
- Improving contrast without compromising your brand’s look
Examples of Targeted Fixes

We also fix the kinds of problems that create the most user friction:
- Popups and modals that trap keyboard or screen reader users
- Sliders or videos that move too quickly without user control
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Each website is different. Each problem needs a thoughtful, code-aware fix. That’s where custom remediation stands apart—it solves the right problem in the right way.

Keeping Accessibility on Track with a11y.Radar

Accessibility isn’t something you do once and forget about. Websites change—new content, new plugins, new designs—and with those changes come new risks.

That’s where our ongoing monitoring tool, a11y.Radar, makes the difference.

It acts like a digital safety net by:
- Running regular scans to check for new or recurring issues
- Prioritizing problems based on what’s most important to fix first
- Providing clear reports that your team can actually understand and act on
- Using the same scanning methods many law firms rely on before filing lawsuits
Stay Ahead, Don’t Fall Behind

Think of it like maintenance for your website’s health. You wouldn’t skip oil changes for your car—and keeping your site accessible works the same way. a11y.Radar helps you stay proactive so small issues don’t turn into bigger problems later. And when paired with custom accessibility audits, you gain a complete strategy for long-term digital compliance.

Why Visibility Increases Your Risk

The more visible your business becomes, the more pressure there is to get accessibility right.

In just May alone, 445 new digital accessibility lawsuits were filed in the U.S.—many aimed at online retailers, especially those using Shopify or WooCommerce. These platforms offer convenience, but often rely on templates or plugins that haven’t been fully tested for accessibility.

The Real-World Consequences

It’s not personal—these lawsuits are often triggered by bots scanning the web for compliance issues. If your site trips a red flag, it could end up on a law firm’s radar.

The risks are real:
- Expensive legal battles or settlement costs
- Strained customer trust
- Hits to your brand reputation
- Increased insurance premiums
The upside? When you invest in custom accessibility audits and monitoring, you dramatically lower your risk—and build a better experience for every user.

Beyond Legal Advice: Why You Need Technical Support

A good legal team can help you understand where you’re exposed. But they won’t fix your navigation, rewrite your forms, or troubleshoot your ARIA labels.

That’s where a hands-on partner makes the difference.

What a Technical Accessibility Partner Does

At 216digital, we’ve supported hundreds of websites—small shops and enterprise platforms alike. Our approach is practical, technical, and built around real-life use cases. We don’t just tell you what’s wrong—we fix it, explain it, and set you up to manage accessibility long-term.

Here’s what we bring to the table:
- Clear developer guidance tailored to your platform
- Integrated testing and remediation that fits into your current workflow
- Ongoing support and monitoring after the fixes are live
It’s not about being perfect—it’s about building lasting accessibility habits. And having a partner who helps you stay on track.

Accessibility Isn’t Obligation—It’s Opportunity

It’s your chance to build a brand that’s genuinely inclusive, appealing to a wider audience and avoiding costly legal pitfalls. Automation tools alone won’t get you there, but custom accessibility audits, hands-on remediation, and proactive monitoring will.

If you’re done guessing and ready to confidently say your site is accessible, reach out to us at 216digital. We’ll clearly show you where your site stands, guide you through practical improvements, and keep accessibility effortless and ongoing. Because ultimately, making your website accessible isn’t just smart—it’s the kind of thoughtful action your customers will notice and appreciate.
Greg McNeil

June 17, 2025

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Accessibility testing, automated testing, custom accessibility audits, Manual Testing, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility
Web Accessibility for Retailers Under Legal Fire
If you’re running an online retail business, digital accessibility might not be the first thing on your to-do list—but it needs to be. In today’s eCommerce landscape, accessibility for retailers isn’t just a best practice—it’s a legal requirement and a smart business move.

Retail websites are complex, dynamic, and frequently updated, which makes them especially vulnerable to accessibility issues. And as more people rely on online shopping to meet daily needs, the stakes are higher than ever. Lawsuits are on the rise, but more importantly, so is the expectation that your site works for everyone.

Product carousels, filters, multi-step checkout processes, popups, modals, and embedded third-party tools all add complexity and make accessibility more difficult.

Why Web Accessibility for Retailers Matters

Retailers have become one of the biggest targets for digital accessibility lawsuits. In fact, in 2024 alone, 77% of all web accessibility lawsuits in the U.S. targeted online retailers—making the industry the most litigated digital sector. These lawsuits aren’t just targeting Fortune 500 brands; regional and mid-market businesses are facing legal action at an increasing rate.

There are several reasons for this:

Retail Websites are Dynamic And Complex

They’re filled with product carousels, filters, multi-step checkout processes, popups, modals, and embedded third-party tools—all of which can be difficult to make accessible. Without proper structure, markup, and ARIA attributes, these elements can become unusable for people relying on screen readers or keyboard navigation.

eCommerce Sites Are Constantly Updated

Product pages change, promotions rotate, and new features are added regularly. These updates often introduce new accessibility problems—especially when not reviewed with accessibility in mind.

Online Shopping is Essential

It’s no longer a luxury; it’s how millions of people access everyday goods and services. If a website prevents someone from completing a purchase due to an accessibility barrier, it becomes a civil rights issue—legally and ethically.

Demand Letters Are Widespread

Each year, hundreds of thousands of demand letters are sent to businesses for digital accessibility violations. These letters signal that a company is excluding people with disabilities, and the reputational damage can be immediate.

Legal and Technical Web Accessibility for Retailers

Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)requires U.S. retailers to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities in all places of public accommodation. In today’s digital world, the courts and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have made it clear: this requirement also applies to websites—especially those that sell goods and services to the public.

Courts and plaintiffs use the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) as the standard for compliance in nearly all accessibility-related lawsuits. The DOJ reaffirmed this approach in 2024, solidifying WCAG as the benchmark for evaluating whether a website is accessible.

The Four Golden Rules of Accessibility: POUR

At the heart of WCAG are four key principles known by the acronym POUR: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. These form the foundation for accessible digital experiences and help ensure your website works for everyone.
- Perceivable – Users must be able to identify and interact with content. This includes providing text alternatives for images, captions for videos, and other sensory accommodations.
- Operable – The site must support navigation with a keyboard, screen reader, or other assistive tools—without relying solely on a mouse.
- Understandable – Information and functionality should be easy to comprehend and behave in expected ways to avoid confusion.
- Robust – Content must be compatible with a wide range of current and future assistive technologies, such as screen readers or voice commands.
And it’s not just your website. These principles should also extend to digital documents, confirmation emails, customer service interactions, and anything else a user might engage with online.

Common Pitfalls on Retail Websites

Retail sites face some of the most complex accessibility challenges. Here are a few issues that often trigger lawsuits:
- Unlabeled or mislabeled form fields that prevent screen reader users from checking out.
- Broken keyboard navigation makes it impossible for users with motor impairments to complete transactions.
- Missing alt text on product images.
- Low color contrast between text and backgrounds.
- Non-dismissable modals or popups that trap users.
- Checkout flows that break when even one component isn’t accessible.
These barriers frequently appear when using templates, third-party plugins, or custom JavaScript that hasn’t been accessibility-tested. They can completely disrupt the buying experience for users who depend on assistive technologies. Web accessibility for retailers requires a consistent and intentional approach to prevent these obstacles from resurfacing.

What Happens If You’re Sued

Most lawsuits begin with a demand letter—often asking for immediate remediation and a financial settlement. If ignored, this can escalate into a federal lawsuit under the ADA or state-level laws like California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, which allows for additional penalties.

Settlements may cover remediation costs and legal fees, but the real damage is often reputational—especially when exclusion of disabled users becomes public knowledge.

Even if your business wins the case, legal defense costs are high. And if your site remains non-compliant, you may be targeted again. With web accessibility for retailers, prevention is significantly less costly than a reactive legal defense.

A Proactive Plan for Retailers

Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix. It’s an ongoing strategy. Here’s how to start with accessibility for retailers:

1. Start with an Audit

Use automated tools like Lighthouse or WAVE for a quick scan. But don’t stop there—manual testing is essential for identifying real-world usability barriers.

2. Fix Key Areas First

Prioritize your homepage, product pages, cart, and checkout. Make sure form fields are labeled, keyboard navigation works, and screen readers can read your content.

3. Address Dynamic Elements

Focus on complex components—like popups, modals, filters, and third-party integrations—that often create the biggest challenges. Use semantic markup and ARIA attributes to support assistive tech.

4. Monitor Continuously

Your site changes frequently. Build accessibility checks into your update process so new features don’t break usability, or use a monitoring service like a11y.Radar.

5. Train Your Team

Give your developers, content editors, and marketing teams the knowledge they need to create inclusive content from the start.

6. Consider Outside Help

Accessibility is nuanced. A qualified team can help you get it right—and keep it that way.

Retailers: Don’t Let Accessibility Be an Afterthought

Web accessibility for retailers is no longer optional. It’s central to building a sustainable, inclusive, and legally safe business. In a digital environment where over 30% of the top 500 eCommerce retailers were sued last year, doing nothing is no longer a risk—it’s a liability.

But there’s a real upside, too. Accessibility leads to better experiences, broader audiences, stronger SEO, and a more trusted brand.

Start now. Audit your site. Fix the gaps. Train your team. Partner with experts. Turn accessibility from a compliance headache into a strategic advantage.

Need Help Making Your Retail Site Accessible?

216digital offers full audits, real-world testing, and proactive monitoring to ensure your site meets WCAG standards and stays lawsuit-resistant. Let’s make your eCommerce experience inclusive—and legally safe—from day one.
Greg McNeil

June 11, 2025

Legal Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, ecommerce website, Retail, WCAG, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
WordPress Accessibility: Common Pitfalls & Fixes
WordPress gives developers a head start with accessibility—but it’s just that: a start. While the platform includes solid foundations like semantic markup and keyboard-friendly admin features, building an experience that works for everyone still requires thoughtful decisions on our part. As developers, we’re in a unique position to go beyond the basics, spotting the small oversights that can create big barriers for users.

In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the most common accessibility missteps we see in WordPress projects—along with practical fixes you can implement right away. Whether you’re refactoring an old theme or launching something new, these insights are meant to help you create experiences that are not just compliant, but genuinely inclusive.

Misuse of Heading Structures for Visual Styling

It’s easy to reach for <h2> or <h3> tags to style text because they’re built into most WordPress themes with bold and larger font sizes. But when headings are used purely for visual emphasis—not structure—you end up distorting the page’s semantic outline.

Why It Matters

Screen reader users often rely on heading navigation to scan and jump between sections. If headings are skipped, out of order, or misused, the page becomes harder to understand, and key content may get missed entirely.

How to Fix It
- Use CSS for Styling: Apply styles using classes or inline styles, not heading tags. In Gutenberg, you can use blocks with custom styles or reusable blocks instead of jumping heading levels.
- Follow a Logical Heading Hierarchy: Begin with one <h1> per page (usually the title), then use <h2> for top-level sections, <h3> for subsections, and so on.
- Audit Your Work: Use tools like WAVE or the Google Lighthouse Accessibility Report to evaluate your heading structure and flag potential misuses before they go live.
Overreliance on Theme Defaults for Color Contrast

Many developers trust their WordPress theme’s default color scheme to do the heavy lifting—but while a palette may look good visually, it doesn’t mean it’s accessible. Default colors often fail to meetWCAG 2.1 AA standards, especially for body text and buttons.

Accessibility Risk

Poor color contrast is a major barrier for users with low vision or color blindness. If your text blends into the background, you’re excluding readers—sometimes without realizing it.

Practical Fixes
- Test Contrast Ratios: Use WebAIM’s Contrast Checker or the Color Contrast Analyzer to validate text against its background.
- Override Theme Defaults: Most modern themes offer customization options via the Customizer or Full Site Editing. Make small adjustments—lighten text, darken backgrounds—to meet or exceed the 4.5:1 minimum contrast ratio.
- Offer User Controls: Consider giving users the ability to switch to high-contrast mode with plugins like “WP Accessibility.” This gives more control to your users while improving inclusivity.
Improper List Markup Practices

It’s not unusual to see developers create the appearance of a list using <div> tags, line breaks, or other non-semantic methods—especially in custom blocks or page builders commonly used in WordPress.

Why It’s a Problem

Screen readers rely on semantic tags like <ul>, <ol>, and <li> to announce that a list exists, how many items are in it, and how items relate to each other. Without this structure, users lose context.

Best Practices
- Use Native List Markup: If it’s a list—code it as a list. Use <ul> for unordered lists and <ol> for ordered ones. Wrap each list item in <li>.
- Handle Nesting Thoughtfully: For sub-lists, nest another <ul> or <ol> inside an <li>. Screen readers will announce the nested structure properly.
- Test Your Output: Run accessibility audits or inspect the DOM to ensure list structures are coded semantically, especially when using custom Gutenberg blocks or page builders.
Neglecting Contextual Relevance in Alt Text

WordPress auto-generates alt text from image file names if authors don’t supply one. That’s how you end up with images labeled “IMG_4829.jpg”—which isn’t helpful to anyone.

Why It Matters

Alt text should describe why the image is there, not just what it looks like. If the image provides important context, instructions, or emotion, a generic label fails users who rely on screen readers.

What Developers Can Do
- Write Purpose-Driven Alt Text: If the image is showing a concept, outcome, or step in a process, describe that context directly. For example, “Screenshot of the plugin settings menu with Accessibility Mode enabled.”
- Avoid Phrases Like “Image of…” Screen readers already announce the presence of an image. Jump straight into the relevant description.
- Use Empty Alt for Decorative Images: For visuals that are purely aesthetic and add no informational value, use alt="" so assistive tech knows to skip it entirely.
Overuse and Misapplication of ARIA Attributes

ARIA is a powerful toolset—but like any tool, misuse can cause more harm than good. Adding roles and attributes without understanding their implications can break screen reader behavior or clutter the accessibility tree.

The Real Cost

Improper ARIA use can confuse assistive technologies, interfere with default behaviors, and even make components harder—not easier—to use. Overengineering is just as dangerous as under-engineering.

Smarter ARIA Use
- Favor Native HTML First: If you’re building a checkbox, <input type="checkbox"> with an associated <label> is far more reliable than using a <div> with ARIA roles and states.
- Use ARIA Only When Required: If you’re building a custom interactive widget (like a tabbed interface or menu), consult the ARIA Authoring Practices Guide. Choose correct roles and manage keyboard interactions accordingly.
- Test Your Implementation: Use screen readers like NVDA or VoiceOver to verify that ARIA is behaving as expected. Pay attention to focus, announcements, and interaction patterns.
Overlooking Keyboard Navigation and Focus Management

Many developers unintentionally design for mouse users first. But for users relying on keyboards—whether due to preference, disability, or temporary injury—keyboard accessibility is critical.

Key Accessibility Concerns
- No Visible Focus Indicators: Removing browser outlines with outline: none; without providing alternatives leaves users lost.
- Custom Components Not Keyboard-Aware: Modals, sliders, dropdowns, and carousels built from scratch often lack proper keyboard event handling and focus management.
Developer-Friendly Fixes
- Ensure Focus Visibility: Style focused elements clearly using CSS, like :focus { outline: 2px solid #000; }. Customize this to match your theme, but don’t remove it entirely.
- Handle Keyboard Events: For custom components, add keydown or keyup listeners to handle Enter, Escape, and Arrow keys appropriately. Don’t rely on click events alone.
- Do Keyboard-Only Testing: Regularly test your site using only the keyboard. Tab through each interactive element and verify focus moves logically, without skipping important controls.
What True Accessibility Looks Like in WordPress

Accessibility isn’t a checklist—it’s a mindset. When we write clean, semantic code, ensure visual clarity, and support every way a user might interact with our sites, we’re not just doing right by WCAG—we’re doing right by our users. The real goal is to build experiences that work for everyone, without assumptions about how people navigate the web.

As WordPress developers, we have powerful tools and a vibrant ecosystem at our disposal. Let’s use them with care and intention. Keep testing, stay curious, and don’t hesitate to dig deeper. And if you’re looking to strengthen your accessibility efforts, 216digital offers ADA compliance briefings tailored to development teams. We’re here to support your work—because inclusive development is better development.
Greg McNeil

June 10, 2025

How-to Guides, Legal Compliance

Accessibility, How-to, WCAG, Web Accessibility, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility, WordPress
Are Accessible Websites More Expensive to Develop?
Let’s get one thing out of the way: making your website accessible does not mean doubling your budget or dragging out your timeline. One of the biggest misconceptions we hear from clients is that accessible websites are more expensive to build. But when done right, accessibility isn’t some extra layer you slap on later—it’s a smarter way to build from the beginning.

Accessibility isn’t about adding bells and whistles. It’s about giving everyone a fair shot at using your site—no matter how they access it. And when accessibility is baked into your planning, design, and development phases, it actually saves you money. On the flip side, skipping it now often leads to expensive fixes, rework, or even legal issues later.

Bottom line: accessible websites aren’t more expensive to develop—inaccessible ones are.

What Accessibility Actually Requires

If you’re picturing accessibility as a mountain of custom features and complicated coding, let’s pump the brakes. Most accessibility best practices are about making smarter choices early in the process, not reinventing the wheel.

Let’s look at a few low-effort, high-impact things your team can do:
- Add alternative (alt) text as you upload images. It takes seconds and provides screen readers with essential context.
- Use semantic HTML (like proper headings, lists, and buttons) instead of just styling with divs and spans.
- Structure navigation so users can tab through with a keyboard.
- Check your color contrast in early design stages—this small choice determines readability for millions of users.
Accessibility isn’t about building entirely new tools. It’s about ensuring your site plays nicely with existing assistive technologies—like screen readers, screen magnifiers, or voice navigation tools.

That means you don’t have to build special versions of your site for users with disabilities. You just need to support the way they already navigate the web.

Building Accessibility from the Ground Up Saves Time and Money

Now here’s where the real costs come in: retrofitting. When accessibility isn’t part of the original plan, fixing issues after launch becomes much more expensive.

Let’s say you skipped writing alt text during image uploads. Going back to write descriptions for 1,000+ images after the fact? That’s hours—if not weeks—of work.

Or maybe you used complex JavaScript widgets without thinking about keyboard access. Retrofitting those components to be screen reader-friendly may mean rewriting large sections of your code.

In other words, fixing inaccessible websites costs more than doing it right the first time. And those fixes often introduce technical debt—clunky workarounds, inconsistent updates, and ongoing maintenance headaches.

Accessible websites, when built with care from the start, are easier to update, scale, and maintain. They’re leaner, cleaner, and future-proof.

Accessibility Supports Other Core Business Goals

Accessibility isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s also good business.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Search engines love accessible sites. Why? Because many accessibility best practices—like using descriptive alt text, heading tags, and semantic HTML—also help search engines understand and index your content.

Performance and Usability

Accessible websites tend to have faster load times and cleaner code, which improves the overall user experience. Mobile users, for example, benefit from accessible design as much as someone using a screen reader.

Security and Stability

Accessible forms often rely on well-structured HTML and simple interactions rather than fragile JavaScript plugins. This makes your site more stable and secure, reducing the likelihood of bugs or failures.

In short, accessibility supports the same goals that developers, designers, marketers, and business owners already care about: visibility, usability, and reliability.

The Real Risk: Legal Liability and Missed Market Potential

Now let’s talk about the elephant in the room: lawsuits.

Accessibility-related lawsuits have been on the rise for years—especially under ADA Title III, which covers websites as places of public accommodation. And it’s not just the big guys being targeted. Small and midsize businesses are increasingly in the crosshairs.

Worse, many businesses try to cut corners with accessibility overlays or plugins. These tools promise instant compliance but often fall short of legal standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines). Relying on them can actually increase your legal risk.

And beyond compliance? Let’s not ignore the massive untapped audience:
- 1 in 4 U.S. adults lives with a disability.
- Older adults, one of the fastest-growing groups of online shoppers, benefit from larger text, clearer navigation, and reduced motion.
- Consumers care—more people are making buying decisions based on brand values like inclusivity and social responsibility.
An accessible website isn’t just a shield against lawsuits. It’s a magnet for customers you might otherwise miss entirely.

Smart Accessibility Decisions by Role

No matter your role on a digital team, you can make choices that support accessible websites from the beginning.

For Designers
- Choose high-contrast color schemes.
- Use legible fonts with scalable sizes.
- Structure content with a clear visual hierarchy.
- Design for flexibility—not everyone uses a mouse or touchscreen.
For Developers

Use semantic HTML for structure.
- Make sure all interactive elements work with a keyboard.
- Don’t overuse ARIA—follow best practices and use it only when necessary.
For Content Creators
- Write in plain, easy-to-understand language.
- Make sure your links say where they go (“Read our pricing guide,” not just “Click here”).
- Use headings and lists to break up content.
For Project Managers
- Treat accessibility like you would security or performance. It’s not optional—it’s critical.
- Schedule accessibility testing early and often, not just at the end.
- Work accessibility into every sprint, deliverable, and stakeholder review.
Accessibility is everyone’s job—and it’s much easier when it’s a shared priority from the beginning.

Accessibility as an Investment, Not a Line Item

Let’s reframe the conversation.

Accessibility isn’t just a cost on your project spreadsheet. It’s a long-term investment in your brand, your user experience, and your operational efficiency.

Here’s what you gain:
- Simpler redesigns: Sites built on semantic, accessible foundations are easier to rebuild or re-theme.
- Better customer experiences: More people can use your site with ease—and they’ll remember it.
- Improved trust: Customers, partners, and regulators alike see accessible websites as a sign of responsibility and care.
Even the W3C, the global standards organization behind WCAG, notes that accessible websites “often work better for everyone” and “improve the user experience across devices.”

At 216digital, we’ve seen it firsthand—companies that build accessibly from the start end up with stronger, leaner, and more successful digital platforms.

Make Accessibility a Strategic Priority

So, are accessible websites more expensive to develop?

Not if you do it right.

Integrating accessibility from the beginning is faster, cheaper, and more effective than fixing it later. It supports your other business goals, opens up new markets, and protects you from legal risk.

Inaccessible websites may cost less upfront—but they cost far more in the long run.

If you’re planning a redesign or wondering where your current site stands, scheduling an ADA accessibility briefing with 216digital is a smart, low-commitment first step. We’ll help you assess your current risk, prioritize improvements, and put you on the path to building more inclusive digital experiences.

Because accessibility isn’t an extra—it’s just smart business.
Greg McNeil

June 9, 2025

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, cost, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility

Start at the Foundation: Build In, Don’t Bolt On

What the Law Actually Says (And Why It’s Not Just About Lawsuits)

WCAG Sounds Complex—But It Boils Down to Four Core Ideas

Okay, But How Do You Start with ADA Compliance?

Use tools that do the first pass for you.

Triage by Traffic

Teach What Matters To The People Who Touch the Work.

Make It Routine, Not A One-time Fix

The Payoff Isn’t Just ADA Compliance—It’s Better Public Service

You Don’t Have to Do It All Today—Just Take the First Step

Start the Conversation About Agency Accessibility Solutions

Revisit It During Design Reviews

Build Accessibility into Development (Not After)

Post-Launch Is Just the Beginning

When Legal Risk Enters the Chat

Make Agency Accessibility Solutions the Default

Ready to Make Accessibility Part of Your Process?

Why Icons Matter (Beyond Aesthetics)

Saving Space on Smaller Screens

Common Accessibility Challenges with Icons

Ambiguity: One Icon, Many Meanings

Decorative Icons That Get in the Way

Size, Contrast, and Clickability

Best Practices for Creating Accessible Icons

1. Label Every Interactive Icon

2. Hide Decorative Icons Properly

3. Pay Attention to Size, Contrast, and Focus

4. Stay Consistent

5. Avoid Icon Fonts and Emojis

6. Test in the Real World

A Closer Look: Two Icon Examples

The Right Way to Do a Menu Icon

Clarifying a Heart Icon

Looking Ahead: The Future of Icon Accessibility

Think Global

Customize and Personalize

Final Thoughts: Make Icons That Include Everyone

Setting the Stage: What Is the EAA?

Who the EAA Applies To—and Who It Doesn’t

Does the EAA Apply to U.S. Businesses?

What About Small Businesses?

What the EAA Actually Requires

Covered Products and Services

Accessibility Standards

Accessibility Statements

How EAA Enforcement Actually Works

A Word to Multinational Businesses

What U.S. Businesses Should Actually Do

1. Evaluate Your Exposure

2. Take Practical (Not Panicked) Steps

3. Remember: Accessibility Is a Business Advantage

Looking Ahead: Stay Aware, Not Alarmed

What Does “Bolting It On” Look Like?

Accessibility Planning = Smart, Strategic Design

6 Stages Where Accessibility Belongs

1. Discovery and Strategy

2. UX and Visual Design

3. Content Creation

4. Front-End Development

5. Testing and QA

6. Launch and Maintenance

The Human Side of Accessibility

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Why It Pays Off

No Ifs, Ands, or Bugs—Just Accessibility Plans

What WCAG 2.4.2 Actually Requires

Who Benefits from Descriptive Page Titles?

Common Title Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Better Examples

Accessibility and SEO: They Work Together

Tips for Great Titles

How to Improve Your Titles—Step by Step

Audit Your Site

Apply a Simple Template

Loop in Your Team

Add it to Your Checklist

The Risks of Getting It Wrong

Final Thoughts: Titles That Work for Everyone

Ready to Take Action?

The Real Limitations of Automation Tools