Website Accessibility Tools Archives /Tag

Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals
Ensuring your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities, is a legal obligation and a crucial aspect of good business practice. Digital accessibility is about creating an inclusive web experience, allowing everyone to navigate, interact, and engage with your online content without barriers. A vital component of this effort is accessibility testing, which identifies and helps rectify issues that could prevent users with disabilities from accessing your site. But with so many accessibility audits available, how do you choose the right one for your goals?

This post will explore different accessibility testing methods, their benefits, and how you can select the best approach to meet your needs.

What is Accessibility Testing?

Accessibility testing evaluates a website or digital product to ensure people of all abilities can use it. This includes users with visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, or neurological disabilities. The goal is to identify any barriers that might prevent these users from fully interacting with your site, whether that’s difficulty reading text, navigating menus, or accessing multimedia content.

Accessibility testing typically involves checking against established guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a comprehensive framework for creating accessible web content. Testing can be done using various methods, from automated tools to manual assessments by accessibility experts.

Why Your Website Needs Accessibility Testing

Web accessibility is not just a matter of ethics—it’s a legal requirement in many regions, including the United States, where the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that websites be accessible to people with disabilities. Failing to meet these requirements can result in costly lawsuits, damage to your brand’s reputation, and loss of potential customers.

Beyond legal compliance, accessibility testing is essential for ensuring a positive user experience for all visitors. An accessible website can increase your audience reach, improve customer satisfaction, and boost your SEO efforts, as search engines like Google favor easy-to-navigate and understand sites.

Overview of Different Accessibility Testing Methods

Several methods of accessibility testing exist, each with strengths and limitations. Understanding these methods will help you choose the right approach for your goals.

Automated Testing

Automated accessibility testing uses software tools to scan your website for accessibility issues. These tools can quickly identify common problems, such as missing alt text, improper heading structures, or color contrast issues.

Pros: Automated testing is fast, cost-effective, and can cover large portions of your site in a short amount of time. It’s an excellent first step in identifying apparent issues.

Cons: While automated tools can catch many issues, they only cover 30-40% of accessibility guidelines. They can miss more subtle or complex problems that require human judgment.

Manual Testing

Manual testing involves human testers evaluating your website’s accessibility by simulating users’ experience with disabilities. This might include using screen readers, navigating with a keyboard, or testing for cognitive load.

Pros: Manual testing is thorough and can identify issues that automated tools miss, such as keyboard navigation problems, improper use of ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications), or issues with interactive elements like forms and buttons.

Cons: Manual testing is time-consuming and more expensive than automated testing. Expertise and experience are required to assess a site’s accessibility accurately.

Hybrid Testing

Hybrid testing combines automated and manual approaches to determine your site’s accessibility comprehensively. Automated tools are used to quickly identify issues, while manual testing addresses more complex problems.

Pros: Hybrid testing offers the best of both worlds—speed and thoroughness. It ensures that no stone is left unturned in your accessibility audit.

Cons: While more comprehensive, hybrid testing can be more costly and time-consuming than automated tools alone.

Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals

When selecting an accessibility audit, consider your specific goals, resources, and the complexity of your website. Here are a few scenarios to help guide your decision:
- Initial Compliance Check: If you’re new to accessibility and looking for a quick overview of your site’s compliance with basic guidelines, an automated audit might be a good starting point. This can help you identify low-hanging fruit that can be quickly addressed.
- Comprehensive Accessibility Review: For businesses that need a thorough assessment of their website’s accessibility, a hybrid audit combining both automated and manual testing is ideal. This approach will provide a complete picture of your site’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance: If your goal is to maintain accessibility over time and avoid compliance issues, consider an ongoing monitoring service that regularly checks your site for new issues as content and technology change.
Overview of 216digital’s Accessibility Services

At 216digital, we understand that navigating the complexities of digital accessibility can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a structured approach to accessibility audits through our Phase 1 Risk Mitigation and Phase 2 Real World Accessibility services.

Phase 1: Risk Mitigation Service

This initial phase focuses on identifying and addressing high-risk accessibility issues that could expose your business to legal action. Using automated tools and expert manual review, we prioritize the most critical issues that need immediate attention.

Phase 2: Real-World Accessibility Service

In Phase 2, we dive deeper into the user experience, focusing on real-world scenarios and how users interact with your site. This phase includes extensive manual testing to uncover complex issues and provides actionable recommendations for improving your site’s accessibility.

How Combining Automated and Manual Testing Enhances Accessibility

A combined approach to accessibility testing offers a more robust and reliable audit process. Automated tools quickly handle large-scale issues, but manual testing ensures your site meets the nuanced needs of all users. By integrating both methods, you can create a more accessible and user-friendly website, reducing the risk of missed issues and ensuring a more inclusive experience.

216digital’s a11y.Radar Service for Ongoing Monitoring

Maintaining accessibility is an ongoing process. 216digital’s a11y. Radar service continuously monitors your website, automatically scanning for new accessibility issues as they arise. This service helps ensure that your site complies with accessibility guidelines over time, catching potential problems before they become costly liabilities.

a11y.Radars Key Features include:
- Dynamic Dashboard Display
- Compliance Scans
- Detailed Issues Reports
- Issues Over Time
- Manual Testing Reports
- Email Alerts
- Current Web Compliance Status
How a11y.Radar Helps Prevent Frivolous ADA Lawsuits and Maintains Accessibility Compliance

One of the biggest concerns for businesses today is the threat of frivolous ADA lawsuits. These lawsuits can be costly and time-consuming, even if the claims are unfounded. 216digital’s a11y. Radar service acts as a safeguard, continuously monitoring your site for compliance and helping you address issues before they lead to legal action. By keeping your site up-to-date with accessibility standards, a11y.Radar protects you from lawsuits and ensures a better user experience for all visitors.

Conclusion

Choosing the proper accessibility audit is crucial for ensuring your website meets the needs of all users while staying compliant with legal requirements. Whether you’re just starting with accessibility or looking for a comprehensive review, understanding the different testing methods and services available will help you make an informed decision.

At 216digital, we can help develop a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap on your terms. To learn more about how our experts can help you confidently create and maintain an accessible website that meets both your business goals and the needs of your users, schedule a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing today.
Greg McNeil

August 8, 2024

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility Audit, Accessibility testing, digital accessibility, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Solution, Website Accessibility Tools
Why Use an Outside Firm for Accessibility Remediation
In the digital age, web accessibility is more than just a compliance checkbox—it’s a commitment to inclusivity and a critical aspect of your website’s user experience. However, ensuring your website is accessible can be complex and time-consuming, requiring specialized knowledge and skills. This is where an outside firm for accessibility remediation becomes invaluable. Let’s explore why partnering with an experienced firm like 216digital can be a game-changer for your business.

Expertise and Knowledge

Accessibility remediation is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It demands a deep understanding of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and other relevant standards and regulations. An outside firm brings a wealth of expertise to the table, ensuring that every aspect of your website meets the required accessibility standards.

Professionals in accessibility firms stay current with the latest updates and changes in guidelines and regulations. This continuous learning is crucial because web accessibility is an evolving field. For instance, WCAG 2.1 introduced new criteria that were not present in WCAG 2.0. Keeping up with these changes requires a dedicated team that is always on top of industry developments.

Comprehensive Testing

Effective accessibility remediation goes beyond automated tools. While these tools are useful for identifying obvious issues, they often miss more nuanced problems that can significantly impact users with disabilities. An outside firm utilizes a combination of automated tools and manual testing to ensure thorough coverage.

Manual testing is essential for evaluating how real users with disabilities interact with your website. This includes testing with screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other assistive technologies. Experienced accessibility professionals can identify and fix issues that automated tools might overlook, ensuring a truly accessible user experience.

Making Judgment Calls

Accessibility is not always black and white. There are situations where judgment calls are necessary to balance design, functionality, and accessibility. Professionals with experience in accessibility remediation can make informed decisions about how to address complex issues.

For example, consider a data table that is essential for conveying information but difficult to navigate with a screen reader. An expert can determine the best approach to make the table accessible without compromising its functionality or usability. These judgment calls require a deep understanding of both accessibility principles and user experience design.

Up-to-date with Current Guidelines and Regulations

Web accessibility guidelines and regulations are constantly evolving. An outside firm specializing in accessibility remediation ensures that your website is not only compliant with current standards but also prepared for future changes.

For instance, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) mandates that websites and mobile applications of certain businesses must be accessible by 2025. Staying ahead of such regulations can save your business from potential legal issues and ensure a smoother transition to compliance.

Efficiency and Focus

Partnering with an outside firm allows your internal team to focus on core business activities. Accessibility remediation can be a time-consuming process, especially for teams that lack specialized knowledge. By outsourcing this task, you can ensure it is handled efficiently and effectively without diverting your team’s attention from other important projects.

Considering 216digital as a Partner

When choosing an outside firm for accessibility remediation, it’s crucial to select a partner with a proven track record of success. 216digital stands out as an excellent choice for several reasons:
- Proven Expertise: With years of experience in web accessibility, 216digital has a deep understanding of the challenges and solutions involved in making websites accessible.
- Comprehensive Services: We offer a full range of services, from initial audits to ongoing maintenance, ensuring your website remains accessible over time.
- Client-Centric Approach: Working closely with our clients, we understand their unique needs and provide tailored solutions that meet both accessibility standards and business goals.
- Up-to-date Knowledge: 216digital stays current with the latest accessibility guidelines and regulations, ensuring your website is compliant now and in the future.
Wrapping Up

Web accessibility is essential for creating an inclusive online environment and avoiding potential legal pitfalls. While it might be tempting to handle accessibility remediation in-house, the benefits of partnering with an outside firm like 216digital are clear. Our expertise, comprehensive testing, ability to make informed judgment calls and up-to-date knowledge of current guidelines and regulations can transform your website into an accessible and user-friendly platform.

Investing in accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about demonstrating a commitment to all your users and enhancing the overall user experience. By choosing an experienced partner for accessibility remediation, you can ensure your website meets the highest standards of accessibility and remains a valuable asset for all visitors.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to schedule a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing so that you can confidently take this next step into digital accessibility.
Greg McNeil

July 30, 2024

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Web Accessibility Remediation, Web Accessibility Solution, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
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
Do You Need Web Accessibility Monitoring?
Your website is now accessible, but there’s more to be done. Web Accessibility is not a one-and-done task – it’s an ongoing effort to make sure that everyone can easily use and access your site.

While remediation is an excellent first step, the truth is that you’re just getting started. You now have to keep up the progress you’ve made with your site through constant observation, assessment, and development.

In this post, we’ll go over why you need web accessibility monitoring and what you should look for to maintain your digital properties.

Challenges in Maintaining Accessibility

To run an online business successfully, you must be prepared to adapt to constant change. However, updates to your website, such as adding new content or features like forms or plugins, can affect its accessibility.

Even small changes can create accessibility barriers. Each change carries the risk of making your website difficult to use for people with disabilities,, and you may not even be aware of it.

Challenges A Website Could Experience

Here are some common challenges a website might face:
- Lack of Training: Staff responsible for maintaining the website may lack awareness or understanding of accessibility principles and techniques.
- Content Updates: Modifying the website’s content and adding new features.
- Third-Party Widgets or Plugins: Websites rely on external plugins and tools, which can be challenging to keep up-to-date and accessible.
Regular audits and testing are essential to ensure your website is accessible to everyone. One way to do this is through monitoring. But how do you monitor your website?

What is Web Accessibility Monitoring?

Accessibility monitoring is an ongoing and proactive process that regularly checks online content for accessibility violations. Think of it as an early warning system, allowing developers and content creators to identify and fix potential barriers quickly.

There are two ways to monitor accessibility: automated and manual. However, they differ significantly in their approach and the level of thoroughness they provide. Below, you can find a description of both.

Automated Monitoring

Automated tools use algorithms to quickly scan web pages for accessibility issues based on predefined criteria. They are efficient for identifying certain barriers, such as missing alternative text for images or improper use of headings. However, automated tools will only catch 30% of issues and should be used with manual testing.

Manual Monitoring

Manual testing involves human experts reviewing web pages to identify accessibility barriers using assistive technologies such as screen readers. Human testers can provide a deeper insight that automated tools may miss, such as understanding the context of content or the user experience for people with disabilities. However, manual testing is time-consuming and labor-intensive. It may not be feasible for frequent updates or large-scale projects.

Why You Should Use a Monitoring Service

Having a web accessibility monitoring service is crucial for various reasons:

1. Legal Compliance

In many countries, including the United States, laws require websites to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. For instance, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that both state and federal agencies make their online content usable for everyone. Monitoring services are vital in ensuring compliance with these regulations by regularly checking a website’s accessibility.

To learn more about laws regarding web accessibility, check out our article, “Navigating Digital Accessibility Regulation in 2024.”

2. Risk Management

ADA compliance isn’t just a one-time task; it’s an ongoing commitment. Failing to meet accessibility standards can lead to legal risks such as lawsuits and fines. In 2023 alone, federal and state courts dealt with 4,605 lawsuits related to web accessibility, with over 25% targeting companies previously sued for similar issues.

Regularly monitoring your website helps mitigate these risks by identifying any violations promptly.

3. Spotting Barriers Early

Monitoring services can detect accessibility barriers caused by updates, changes in code, or new content. Addressing these issues early in development can help save time and resources.

4. Documentation

These services also document a website’s accessibility level, which is crucial for tracking improvements and proving compliance with standards.

Analyzing this data helps teams identify recurring issues and patterns, enabling strategic planning to enhance accessibility through regular maintenance and updates.

5. Enhancing User Experience

Accessibility isn’t just about following rules; it’s about providing a better experience for all users. Accessible websites are easier to use, leading to higher user satisfaction and retention. Monitoring services enable you to identify usability issues and enhance the overall user experience.

6. Cost-Effective Development

Dealing with accessibility issues early in development is more cost-effective than making changes later. Regular monitoring helps catch problems before they escalate, reducing the resources needed for fixes and potential legal fees.

What to Look for in a Monitoring Service

Choosing the right web accessibility monitoring service is crucial to ensure your website is usable by everyone, including those with disabilities. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Accessibility Standards: Check if the service follows recognized standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), covering levels A, AA, or AAA.
2. Type of Monitoring: Look for a service offering automated and manual testing
3. Scalability: Check if the service can handle large or multiple websites. It should handle the scale of your site and provide accurate results.
4. Integration: Select a service that seamlessly integrates with your existing workflows, including your Content Management System (CMS) or development environment.
5. Reporting: Opt for a service that offers detailed reports for tracking progress.
6. Training and Resources: Look for resources such as training materials to help your team understand and implement accessibility improvements.
7. Cost: Evaluate pricing based on factors such as the number of pages, frequency of scans, and additional features.
Before deciding, try out a few services to find the best fit for your needs.

216digital’s a11y.Radar ADA Monitoring

Ensuring your website remains accessible is an ongoing task, but it needn’t be daunting. With 216digital‘s a11y.Radar ADA monitoring service, you’re equipped with the tools and insights needed to maintain an ADA-compliant website that welcomes all users.

a11y.Radar is an automated recurring ADA web compliance auditing platform.a11y.Radar ADA monitoring service reports on your ongoing accessibility efforts, whether conducted by your internal digital teams or an outside web agency. Access enhanced dashboards and receive updates to content, code, and user experience that could pose potential blocks to users or threaten your accessibility standards. In addition, our seamless interface allows your team members to view current issues and manage pending adjustments.

a11y.Radars Key Features include:
- Dynamic Dashboard Display
- Compliance Scans
- Detailed Issues Reports
- Issues Over Time
- Manual Testing Reports
- Email Alerts
- Current Web Compliance Status
Schedule a complimentary ADA strategy briefing to speak with one of our accessibility experts about a11y.Radar ADA Monitoring today.
Greg McNeil

June 27, 2024

Web Accessibility Monitoring

Accessibility, Accessibility monitoring, ADA, ADA Compliance, web accessibility monitoring, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
Why Accessibility Overlays Might Make You a Target
For many website owners, ensuring their site is accessible to everyone, especially those with disabilities, is a priority. This makes sense, not only from an ethical standpoint but also from a legal one. Web accessibility has become a hot topic, with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) taking action against websites that fail to provide equal access. One solution that has garnered attention is the use of overlay widgets. However, if you’re considering using overlay widgets to meet these demands, pause! This may not be the solution you think it is.

In this post, we will explore the pitfalls of relying on such solutions and why they may not be the best choice for safeguarding your online business.

What is an Overlay Widget?

In simple terms, an overlay refers to tools or technologies that incorporate third-party code, typically JavaScript, into a webpage to enhance accessibility. Over recent years, these overlays have surged in popularity and are now featured on numerous websites across the internet. Among the many available, UserWay and accessiBe stand out as the top contenders on the market.

For a monthly charge, these tools claim to offer complete ADA and WCAG compliance, shielding them from litigation and an improved user experience for people with disabilities, all by adding just a single line of code to a website.

On the surface, it sounds ideal for website owners wanting a quick solution. But the truth is more complex.

What Do Accessibility Overlays Claim to Offer?

These overlay companies often promise three key concepts to consumers:
1. Your website will be fully accessible
2. Their technology will automate fixes, removing the need for web accessibility experts.
3. Their products will protect you from accessibility lawsuits.
Does it sound too good to be true? It is. While overlays might seem like a cost-effective solution for web accessibility, they might leave hopeful business owners with a target on their backs.

Accessibility Experts Voicing Concern

Experts in web accessibility have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of accessibility overlays. Many experts argue that these tools may create a false sense of compliance and fail to address the root causes of accessibility issues.

Around 800 experts in accessibility have promised not to support, suggest, or use overlays that pretend to comply with laws or standards automatically. Karl Groves, an industry expert with over 20 years of experience, has put together a detailed fact sheet and statement from these experts, and it’s available on overlayfactsheet.com as a helpful online resource.

But why are these experts opposing overlays? First, we have to talk about ADA Compliance.

What is ADA Compliance?

While using an overlay may help meet some rules in accessibility standards, it cannot ensure

Conformance means meeting or satisfying the requirements of the web accessibility standards. According to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the ‘requirements’ for web accessibility are called Success Criteria. To conform to WCAG’s guidelines, you must meet or satisfy all the Success Criteria.

Since conforming to a standard involves meeting all its requirements, products that claim to bring a website into compliance but cannot fix all issues should be approached with caution.

Why Overlays Are Not Fully Accessible

Here’s a simplified analogy: Imagine a pothole in the road. Instead of fixing it properly, someone places cardboard over it. It might look covered, but it’s still there, and it’s just a matter of time before someone falls through.

Similarly, while overlay widgets might give the appearance of an accessible website, they often merely cover up underlying issues. The worst part? Sometimes, they introduce new problems.

The Limitations of Accessibility Overlays

While overlays may provide some surface-level improvements, they often fail to address the comprehensive requirements for ADA compliance. Automated fixes can be incomplete or inaccurate, leaving certain accessibility issues unaddressed and potentially leading to legal consequences.

Here’s why:
- Partial Fixes: While overlays can assist in certain areas, like making text bigger for those with vision problems, they don’t treat the root problems in the website’s code, leaving site owners vulnerable to ADA lawsuits.
- Inconsistency: Overlay performance can be unpredictable across different devices and browsers, particularly on mobile.
- False Assurance: Sole reliance on overlays can be deceptive. They detect only about 30% of accessibility barriers. The intricate WCAG guidelines mean that overlays can only handle some necessary adjustments. A hands-on review is needed to find the remaining 70% of issues.
- User Experience: Some overlay tools give users an overwhelming number of choices, making things more perplexing or even creating new hurdles for disabled users.
- Conflicts with Assistive Tools: Many people with disabilities use specific tools to navigate the web. Overlays can disrupt these tools, making the website even less accessible.
To learn more about how overlay widgets fail to make a website compliant, check out our blog post, Why AI & Overlay Widgets Fail ADA Website Compliance.

Overlays Don’t Protect Against Web Accessibility Lawsuits

Many website owners opt for overlay widgets, believing they will shield them from potential lawsuits. However, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Some advocates argue that these overlays can create a false impression of compliance, attracting attention from individuals keen on holding non-compliant websites accountable or with a desire for a quick payout.

At the 2021 Digital Accessibility Legal Summit, Jeremy Horelick, Jason Taylor, and Richard Hunt discussed overlays being marketed as one-step software solutions for website accessibility. The answer was a clear no when asked if overlays reduce the risk of litigation expenses.

“They absolutely do not. And there are two reasons why this is true. The first reason is simply because they don’t actually fix websites. […]

The other reason is because the law firms, not all the law firms, but many of the law firms that are in this area do not care whether the website is really accessible or not. Their desire is to find something that they can identify as an error, usually by measuring it against WCAG, and if they can find that error, they can file a lawsuit in good faith. Remembering that their goal is to settle the lawsuit as soon as possible.”

Accessibility Overlays Can Make You A Target

Using an overlay widget is like announcing, “I’m trying to be compliant.” But when that compliance is only surface-deep, it can make you an easy target for litigation.

So you might wonder, “Why would an overlay make me a target?” Here’s a deep dive into the mechanics:

Lawsuit Mechanics

Lawsuits related to web accessibility often rely on demonstrating that a website remains non-compliant despite attempts to rectify it. Scanning tools most plaintiff firms use won’t reliably pick up the solutions provided by widgets and overlays. While suggesting an effort to comply, overlay widgets often fall short of genuine accessibility. As such, your site will “scan” in exactly the same way and not at all change the initial filter most plaintiff firms use to determine who to go after. This discrepancy provides an avenue for legal action.

Lawsuit Claims

Most lawsuits nowadays don’t primarily address WCAG compliance concerns. They cite issues of functional use—things that impact a person with a disability’s ability to use a site. However, overlays won’t affect those claims and will often worsen the functionality. Many claims pinpoint overlay widgets’ inconsistent and ineffective nature, emphasizing that they don’t provide a uniform solution for every user.

Public Record Evidence

Implementing a widget or overlay on your website highlights potential shortcomings in your approach to accessibility. This public display could be referenced in future legal proceedings as evidence of your organization’s consistent lack of attention to accessibility. In the context of the ADA, this could be seen as a failure to adapt policies, practices, and procedures to ensure accessibility.

2023 Overlay Litigation Wave

In 2023, we saw 933 websites become targets for ADA non-compliant lawsuits because they relied solely on overlay widgets. This marked a notable 62% increase from the previous year. The legal actions brought against these companies often point fingers at the features and functions of these widgets, claiming they contribute to accessibility issues, along with the common failures outlined in WCAG.

Attorney Richard Hunt, who specializes in digital ADA cases at Hunt Huey PLLC, was among the first to focus on such legal matters. In a post titled “Is there a silver bullet for ADA website accessibility? Sorry, but the answer is no,” he emphasized that using an accessibility overlay or widget won’t protect businesses from ADA lawsuits.

Hunt stated, “If your business wants to avoid getting sued under the ADA because of an inaccessible website an accessibility overlay or widget isn’t going to help you. I can say this with some certainty because in the last two weeks alone five lawsuits have been filed against businesses that use an accessibility widget or overlay on their websites.”

Privacy Concerns

Besides potential legal problems tied to web accessibility, privacy concerns have surfaced. Overlays that automatically activate certain features, such as those for screen reader or speech recognition users, do this by detecting when an assistive technology is in use on the device. This reveals that the person using the device at that time has a disability. In some instances, it even exposes more personal information, like age, ethnic background, or preferred gender. Collecting such data should only happen with the informed consent of the person to whom it belongs.

Privacy Concerns and Legal Consequences

Some overlays keep users’ settings consistent across different websites that use the same overlay. This is achieved by placing a cookie on the user’s computer. When the user activates a setting for a specific overlay feature on one site, the overlay will automatically activate that feature on other sites.

Although the overlay company may believe they are benefiting the end user, the major privacy issue is that the user never agreed to be tracked, and there’s no way to opt out. Because there’s no opt-out option (except for explicitly turning off that setting), this poses a risk under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) for the overlay customer.

What Actions Should Website Owners Take?

For website owners, the lesson is clear. While overlay widgets might seem like an easy fix for web accessibility, they’re anything but. Not only do they fail to address the root accessibility issues, but they also paint a target on your back for potential litigation.

If you’re a website owner considering using overlay widgets, tread cautiously. Instead of looking for shortcuts, invest in a comprehensive web accessibility evaluation and manual review from the experts at 216digital to ensure that all accessibility barriers are identified and addressed correctly.

It is crucial to recognize the limitations of AI and use it in conjunction with other accessibility tools, such as regularly testing and evaluating accessibility compliance through automated and manual audits. By adopting a multi-faceted approach to accessibility, you can minimize the risk of legal action and make sure that digital content is accessible to all users.

Team Up with 216digital

After years of analyzing ADA lawsuits, we’ve discerned the tactics used by law firms to pinpoint websites for groundless ADA claims and how to protect businesses against them. Our team of accessibility experts can also develop strategies to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap on your terms to save you from potential legal headaches in the future.

Remember, web accessibility is not just about legal compliance but about creating an inclusive web for all. So don’t wait any longer—find out where you stand by scheduling a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing today.
Greg McNeil

February 27, 2024

Legal Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Web Accessibility, ADA Website Compliance, Ai and Overlay Widgets, Overlay widgets, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
Heading Towards Web Accessible Content
Content is the backbone of your website. You’ve crafted a brilliant website or churned out stellar content, but have you ever paused to consider if everyone can access and experience it? If your website’s content is not easy to find, navigate, and consume, you risk losing visitors and potential earnings.

The importance of having web accessible content and structure can’t be stressed enough. If you’re new to this concept, fret not! This article shares the basics of building user-friendly web page content, from accessible headings to typography.

Semantic HTML

Have you ever wondered how screen readers help visually impaired users navigate websites? It all boils down to the magic of Semantic HTML.

HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is the foundation of your website. It’s the code behind the scenes that structures your website’s content. Using semantic HTML elements correctly is like setting a well-organized table for dinner: everything is in its right place, and the guests know where to find what they need.

What is Semantic HTML?

Semantic HTML enhances the accessibility and user-friendliness of web content. It gives context and meaning to web page content using tags that align with human language and logic instead of non-semantic tags, which are meant solely for computer interpretation and don’t hold inherent human meaning.

Take the tag <p> for instance. This semantic tag denotes that a specific text block is a standalone paragraph, providing users with clarity about the text’s structure and informing the browser on how to present it. On the other hand, non-semantic tags like <b>, which merely instructs that the text be bold, dictate only visual presentation without conveying additional contextual significance.

Why Semantic HTML Matters

Well-structured and semantically sound HTML aids search engines and assistive tools like screen readers in deciphering the nature and context of the content you’re sharing. Such HTML constructs make it simpler for browsers and accessibility technologies to grasp the meaning and interrelations within your website content.

To illustrate, through semantic HTML, screen readers can identify the hierarchy of headers on a page (from <h1> to <h6>), determine where the webpage or section footer (<footer>) is, or discern added navigation aids (<nav>) in data tables.

With such semantic guidance in HTML, people using assistive technologies will be able to comprehend the layout and intent of your web content. In fact, heading navigation is very common. The 2021 Screen Reader User Survey by WebAIM, shows that 67.7% of users use headings to find information.

Page Formatting

A well-structured webpage isn’t just visually appealing; it’s easier to understand and navigate. Think of your website as a book. It becomes easier to follow with a proper table of contents and clear headings.

What are Headings?

One of the fundamental elements in creating web accessible content is the proper use of headings. Headings aren’t just big, bold text. They’re the signposts that guide readers through your content. Think of headings as the chapter titles in a book. You wouldn’t flip open a book and find chapters named randomly. Similarly, your web content should be clearly labeled in your HTML markup.

A clear, well-structured heading system aids those using assistive technology and benefits your average reader by allowing them to skim and understand the flow of your content quickly.

What Does “Hierarchical” Mean?

At its core, a hierarchical structure means organizing content in a specific order or rank. In the context of a webpage, this refers to the arrangement of headings from most to least important. For instance, just like a tree has a trunk, main branches, and then smaller branches, your content should have a main heading, subheadings, and further divisions if necessary.

The h1 is the most important heading level, while the h6 is the least. For example, you will use h1 for the page title, whereas h2 would be a subheading and so forth if needed. The hierarchical structure allows both readers and screen readers to navigate through content easily.

One h1 per Page

The cardinal rule of web accessibility is that there should be only one main heading (h1) per page. Like a book’s title, this serves as the page’s main topic or purpose. Subtopics or related points should be categorized under subheadings like h2, h3, etc.

Having multiple h1s on a web page is bad practice for accessibility and SEO. It creates a flat and meaningless structure. However, it’s not a WCAG 2 AA violation.

WCAG on Headings

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is the go-to standard for web accessibility. However, WCAG is not very specific on its requirements for headings.

However, a few WCAG 2 AA criteria do specifically address headings and structures. For instance:
- Success Criterion 2.4.6 Headings and labels: Ensure headings and labels aid users in navigating content and understanding their current location by clearly describing the topic or objective
- Success Criterion 3.2.3 Consistent Navigation Level: When navigation elements are repeated across different pages within a site, they should maintain a consistent order unless the user decides to alter it.
- Success Criterion 1.3.1 Info and Relationships: The information and its structural relations provided visually should also be discernible through its code. This implies the necessity of using the correct HTML tags, like h1 through h6, to represent heading levels.
In essence, headings should be used to define content clearly and should be applied in a consistent and meaningful manner. Doing so aids all users, especially those using screen readers, in navigating and comprehending a website more effectively.

What Makes Good Heading Text?

A screen reader user can access a list of headings and skim through them to decide where to start reading on a webpage. While there is no accessibility requirement for the length of a heading text, usability is a factor to consider.

Making complete paragraphs into headings results in a horrible screen reader experience. Write concise, meaningful headings that provide insight into the content.

When you are generating your headings, ask yourself the following:
- Does the header describe the content being discussed?
- Are you able to skim the content using only headings?
- Does every page have a clear and unique heading above the content?
Headings in Design

Here are some factors to consider when incorporating headings into your website’s design.

Using Heading Labels for Styling

When used appropriately, headings guide the reader through the content, highlighting the main topics and their relative importance. However, choosing heading levels based on their visual appearance or sizing rather than their semantic meaning is a common mistake.

For example, using an h2 tag simply because it looks “right” visually rather than because it denotes the second level of importance or hierarchy is misguided. This can confuse both users and assistive technologies, making content less accessible.

All Caps

Using all capital letters makes the text more challenging to read. When every word is in uppercase, it loses its unique shape and starts to look like a rectangle. Research has shown that text in all caps is particularly hard for those with dyslexia. Make life easy for your readers; avoid using all capital letters.

Crafting Web Accessible Content with 216digital

Navigating the intricacies of web accessibility can be challenging, but the rewards are immense. An accessible website is not just a legal obligation but an opportunity for your voice to be heard. Your content is valuable, and it should be accessible to everyone. If you’re still unsure where to start or how to enhance your website’s accessibility, the experts at 216digital are here to help.

If you’d like to talk further about your web accessibility initiative, Schedule a Complimentary ADA Strategy Briefing with the experts at 216digital. We will help you take the steps towards making your content web accessible on your terms by developing a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap.
Greg McNeil

October 5, 2023

How-to Guides

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, web development, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
Understanding Image Alt Text Descriptions
Even though digital transformation is progressing rapidly, many online businesses still lag behind in making their websites accessible to people with disabilities. This is partly due to a lack of awareness or technical knowledge of different accessibility issues and how to solve them.

In this article, we will cover one of the most common accessibility barriers — providing alternative text descriptions for images. When done correctly, alt text can paint a complete picture for people who cannot perceive images visually. Unfortunately, many content creators and developers forget to provide alt text or write something that doesn’t quite hit the mark.

So, what exactly is Image Alt Text, and how should you integrate it into your website?

What is Alt Text?

Image alt text, also called image alternative text descriptions, is the written copy that appears in place of an image on a website if the image fails to load on a user’s screen. This text can also help screen-reading tools describe images to visually impaired users and allows search engines to better crawl your website.

Alt text should be brief but vivid enough to clarify the image’s content to someone listening to the description. This includes any information contained within graphs or charts. Well-written alt text doesn’t just describe a photo but also communicates its purpose and context.

But how do you add alt text to images?

How to Add Alt Text to Your Images?

Image Alt Text is the descriptive text that is included in a website’s foundational HTML code to describe an image on a webpage.

However, adding Alt Text to images varies slightly depending on your web-building platform. Generally, when you upload a photo, there should be an ‘Alt Text’ or ‘Alt Description’ field where you can input your description.

For HTML users, you can add Alt Text to an image by including the ‘alt’ attribute within the ‘img’ tag:
```
<img src="example.jpg" alt="A description of the image">
```
Suppose you use a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress. In that case, there’s a designated field for image optimization where you can create and change the image’s alt text.

When Should I Use Alt Text?

According to the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), all images must have a text alternative that describes their function or the information they represent. However, that doesn’t mean every image should be treated the same.

Follow these rules when writing alt text:

1. Images of Text

Does the image contain text?

If readable text is presented within an image, the text alternative must contain every word in the image. However, it’s essential to mention images with text should be avoided, except in the case of logos.

2. Functional Images

Is the image used in a link or a button, and would it be hard to understand the function if it wasn’t there?

Suppose an image is used as a link or button. In that case, the alt text must describe the functionality and destination, if it doesn’t already from the text or graphical content. For instance, a button to “download in App Store” image link would have an alternative text description stating: “Click here to download the Bittrex app on the App Store.”

3. Informative Images

Does the image contribute meaning to the current page or context?

Informative images are images or illustrations that convey vital information to the context of information surrounding them. The text alternative for these images should include the image’s essential information. The description should be colloquial as if you are explaining it to someone sitting next to you. For example, suppose an image is of a truck driving. In that case, the alternative text should state: “A truck driving over rough terrain”.

However, complex images such as infographics or diagrams used to convey data or detailed information should have a complete text equivalent to the data or information provided in the infographic or chart.

4. Decorative Images

Is the image purely decorative or not intended for the user?

If an image’s only purpose is to add visual decoration, it does not require alt text. However, the image must then be explicitly marked as presentational so that it is ignored by screen reading software. It must still have an alt attribute, so give it “null” alt text, which is an alt attribute with no value, as seen below:
```
<img src=”../img.jpg” alt=”” />
```
Need help with how to treat a specific image? The W3C has developed an alt text decision tree to help you determine the right approach depending on the image’s purpose.

Image Alt Text Best Practices

Ultimately, image alt text needs to be specific and representative of the topic it supports. Just adding alt text isn’t enough. It’s essential to ensure it’s effective.

Here are some best practices to follow:

Describe an Image and Be Specific

Alt Text should accurately represent the content and function of an image. Use both the image’s subject and context to guide you. For example, instead of writing “dog” for an image, use a more specific description such as “A golden retriever playing fetch in the park.”

Avoid Redundancy

It might seem like a helpful cue, but remember not to include phrases like “picture of” or “image of” in your alt text. Screen readers and Search Engines will know from the preceding HTML tag to announce the alt text as an image. Including these phrases in your description will only disrupt the user’s experience and waste valuable characters.

Write for People, Not Search Engines

Many content creators make the mistake of trying to stuff keywords into their site’s alt text. While it’s true that alt text can contribute to SEO, your priority should be accessibility and user experience. If you can naturally fold a keyword into your alt text, excellent. But don’t fall into the trap of treating alt text like an SEO tool.

Review for Spelling Errors and Punctuation

Like all website content, proper punctuation makes information easier to understand. Ensure that your alt text is free of mistakes for a professional and clear description.

In addition, when hiding decorative images, you should be aware of spacing when using a null or empty alt text. If there is a space between the quotes, assistive technologies may still pick it up as alt text, confusing the user.

Image Alt Text Example

Alt text that doesn’t appropriately describe the image and its purpose could prove detrimental or puzzling to website users relying on assistive technology.

Follow alt-text best practices, and you’ll get a feel for what needs to be said. A more detailed description may be beneficial. However, there are instances when it can be redundant. Consider the example below.

Bad Alt Text
```
<img src= "example.jpg" alt="a city's bridge at night">
```
The line of alt text above is technically descriptive — but it does not describe the image in a meaningful way for the user. Yes, the photo above shows a city’s bridge, and it is night. But this is also a picture of Cleveland, Ohio — and the Detroit-Superior Bridge. These are essential specifics that your users might need to comprehend the image if it’s on, say, a blog post about Cleveland landmarks.

Good Alt Text

With context in mind, a better alt text for this image might be:
```
<img src= "example.jpg" alt="Cleveland Ohio's Detroit-Superior Bridge at night">
```
Why is Image Alt Text Important?

We’ve already alluded to several reasons why image alt text is essential. However, understanding these reasons will help you write the best alt text possible for your users. Below we’ll look at the significant reasons image alt text is essential.

Web Accessibility and User Experience

Image alt tags allow screen reader users to understand what is happening on a webpage besides the written basic text. Images may be the only form of instruction for some websites or other digital assets. Without alt text, these users may miss out on the information conveyed through images, affecting their overall site experience. It is, therefore, a key component in meeting the World Wide Web Consortium (WCAG) success criteria for image alternative text descriptions.

Ignoring these standards could lead to potential legal consequences due to non-compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Such non-compliance limits your website’s audience reach and could result in lawsuits or hefty fines. Hence, incorporating alt text in your website design is an inclusive practice and a legal imperative.

Search Engine Optimization

Search engines like Google, unable to visually understand images, rely on Alt Text to determine their content. This information helps them provide relevant results for image searches, significantly boosting your website’s visibility.

However, while Alt Text can contribute to SEO, it should not be used to manipulate search rankings by overstuffing keywords. Google can penalize such practices, leading to a decrease in your overall SEO performance.

Learn more about Web Accessibility and SEO Optimization: A Powerhouse Combination.

Take the Next Steps Toward Accessibility

In a digital era where inclusivity and accessibility are of utmost importance, alt text is a vital tool for website owners and developers. If, until now, you were not aware of the importance of image alt text, don’t stress! You can add these elements at any time to increase the accessibility of your website.

If you’d like to talk further about your web accessibility initiative, Schedule a Complimentary ADA Strategy Briefing with the experts at 216digital. We will help you take the steps towards web accessibility on your terms by developing a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap.

Remember, alt text is not just an option—it’s an essential step in building a successful and accessible online presence.
Greg McNeil

July 10, 2023

How-to Guides

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Alt text, Image Alt Text, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
AI for ADA Web Remediation: Is It the Right Choice?

The web, a vast and sprawling network of information, has become a fundamental part of our lives. From education to work, communication to commerce, it shapes how we interact and learn. However, it’s not always as accessible as it should be for everyone. Web accessibility is a pivotal matter that guarantees everyone, including people with disabilities, can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the web. But what role does powerful artificial intelligence (AI), like Accessibe, UserWay, and ChatGPT, play in this realm? And, is it suitable for web remediation?

What is AI?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that aims to create systems capable of performing tasks that usually require human intelligence. This includes learning, understanding language, recognizing patterns, solving problems, and making decisions.

AI uses various techniques, most commonly machine learning (ML), where machines are programmed to learn and improve from experience. ChatGPT is, of course, a famous example.

ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a state-of-the-art AI language model developed by OpenAI. It leverages machine learning to understand and generate human-like text based on the inputs it receives. ChatGPT and similar machine learning models have vast potential in their applications. Its applications include coding, composing music, writing emails or essays, and playing complex games like Chess.

While some worry that the mass adoption of AI might take away jobs or make it easier for people to cheat or plagiarize, it has made others question if AI could help with ADA web remediation. While AI has shown tremendous potential in various fields, there are reasons why it may not be the best solution for ADA web remediation.

AI and Machine Learning in Web Remediation

AI and machine learning shows great promise in various fields, including web accessibility. Common AI web accessibility solutions include tools like Accessibe, UserWay, and AudioEye. However, even the most sophisticated AI, like ChatGPT, has limitations. Let’s explore how AI and ML can be applied to web accessibility.

AI Testing for ADA Web Compliance

AI systems can be trained to recognize certain patterns, enabling them to evaluate websites against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) criteria. However, this method is not foolproof.

Many WCAG requirements, such as ensuring content makes sense when read out of context or assessing whether a site is easy to navigate, require a nuanced understanding of human interaction that AI currently lacks. In fact, AI can only identify 30% of WCAG 2.1 A and AA success criteria.

David O’Neill, a well-known figure in accessibility and technology, says, “[AI] can identify accessibility issues, but it cannot replace a human being in terms of applying the necessary context or making the relevant decisions.”

AI Remediating Accessibility Issues

When it comes to fixing accessibility issues, AI may fall short. AI can automate some remediation tasks, like adjusting elements on a webpage, such as text size, color contrast, or page navigation. However, this automatic correction can also introduce new accessibility issues. AI algorithms can misinterpret complex web page elements, leading to flawed solutions that don’t fully address accessibility needs or might cause more barriers.

AI Creating Alternative Text Descriptions

AI has made significant strides in image recognition, leading to the idea that it could be used to generate alternative text descriptions for images. However, though AI can identify the objects in a photo, it still struggles to provide meaningful context. For example, an AI might recognize and describe an image as “a person standing in a room,” but a human could provide more context, like “John, laughing while decorating the Christmas tree.”

Predicting and Prioritizing Accessibility Issues

AI and ML algorithms can predict common accessibility issues based on patterns from past data. However, predicting is one thing; prioritizing and rectifying these issues is the real challenge. AI lacks contextual understanding, which is often vital in prioritizing and addressing barriers. For instance, AI might deprioritize fixing small font sizes based on frequency. Still, for an elderly user or someone with visual impairments, this is a critical issue.

So, at a glance, AI offers some promising solutions. But should we entirely trust AI for web remediation?

Limitations of AI for ADA Remediation

While AI and ML have made strides in web accessibility, it is clear they can’t replace the expertise and experience of a web accessibility agency.

AI can certainly help identify some common accessibility issues. But to thoroughly evaluate the accessibility of a website and remediate potential problems, you need a detailed understanding of how people with disabilities interact with digital content. This level of insight requires human empathy, contextual understanding, and years of experience, something AI currently lacks.

AI cannot comprehend the intent of a web page or the nuance behind the design. It can’t understand the user journey in the same way that a professional with experience in web accessibility can.

Manual Auditing: The Gold Standard

While automating the process might be tempting, manual auditing remains the gold standard for ADA web remediation.

A manual audit offers depth and understanding that AI currently cannot match. With a comprehensive understanding of user experience from various perspectives, human auditors can identify barriers to accessibility that AI might miss. This is because professional auditors are experienced in recognizing how individuals with disabilities navigate and interact with web content.

By leveraging the expertise of professionals, you can ensure that every aspect of your website meets WCAG standards. They can understand the unique context and nuances of your website, something which even the most advanced AI, like ChatGPT, cannot fully emulate.

Partner with 216digital for ADA Web Remediation

When it comes to ADA web remediation, consulting professional web accessibility agencies like 216digital provides a distinct advantage. Our team of experts understands the intricacies of web accessibility and how to make your website more accessible and compliant with ADA and WCAG guidelines.

Unlike AI, 216digital offers customized strategies based on a comprehensive understanding of your website and its users. We don’t just look for issues; we also devise the best ways to remediate them in light of your site’s purpose and design.

As David O’Neill points out, “There is a role for automation in accessibility… [But] there is also a clear need for manual testing.” At 216digital, we combine the best of both worlds, using technology to aid in identifying issues while relying on our human expertise for effective remediation.

For comprehensive ADA web remediation, trust the experts at 216digital. Schedule a complimentary ADA Strategy Briefing today.

Greg McNeil

June 15, 2023

Testing & Remediation

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
A Comprehensive Guide to ADA Web Compliance
As a business owner, you are likely aware that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law mandating inclusion for people with disabilities in all areas of public life. Did you know, however, that these protections also extend to websites? The number of website accessibility lawsuits has steadily risen — from 2,314 in 2018 to 4,061 in 2022.

But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll take a look at what you need to know as an online business owner about the ADA and its implications for your website, including:
What is the ADA?

The ADA, or the Americans with Disabilities Act, is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life. The primary goal of this law is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

The ADA draws on the precedent set by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which guarantees certain rights to people with disabilities. However, the Rehabilitation Act was very limiting, only applying to the government sector (later amended and updated by Section 508).

What Does the ADA Cover?

ADA is a very broad piece of legislation that is divided into five titles. The part of the ADA that affects the way that businesses serve customers and employees is called “Title III.”

Title III of the ADA, which affects how businesses serve customers and employees, prohibits discrimination in “places of public accommodation.” These “public accommodations” refer to privately owned entities such as restaurants, schools, recreation facilities, and retail stores.

The ADA necessitates two main things:
1. Employers must provide necessary accommodations for employees with disabilities to perform their job duties, which may involve accessible restrooms and appropriate office equipment.
2. Businesses must ensure that their services are accessible to customers with disabilities. This requires features such as wheelchair ramps for building entrances, American Sign Language (ASL) interpretations, and accommodations for service animals.
Who Has To Be ADA Compliant?

There’s a common misconception that ADA only applies to large corporations or physical brick-and-mortar stores. Any business with 15 or more employees or any that operates publicly must comply with the ADA. However, this rule does not apply to websites—businesses of all sizes may be served with ADA non-compliance litigation.

That means that ADA affects:
- Places of entertainment such as theaters and concert halls
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
- Doctors’ offices
- State and local government offices, employment agencies, and labor unions
- Schools and daycare facilities
Is ADA Compliance Mandatory for Websites?

While it was clear from the beginning that the ADA would affect brick-and-mortar stores, it was less obvious if it would cover websites and online applications. As the internet and websites started to play a bigger role in how consumers interact with businesses, the way the ADA is applied to web accessibility had to change.

In 2010, the Department of Justice (DOJ) began rulemaking activity to assert that all business websites are “places of public accommodation” under Title III of the ADA. The final Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, however, has been postponed by the DOJ multiple times.

It wasn’t until late 2021 and early 2022 that the DOJ entered into multiple settlement agreements concerning the accessibility of websites used for COVID-19 vaccines. These emphasized that the DOJ “…has consistently maintained that the ADA’s requirements apply to all goods, services, privileges, or activities offered by public accommodations, including those offered on the web.”

Today, US courts apply ADA accessibility requirements to all online domains, including websites and other web-based applications. Consequently, businesses should strive to comply with ADA rules.

How Does the ADA Assess Web Accessibility?

Due to the DOJ’s delay in releasing technical standards for web accessibility, confusion has emerged among businesses and website owners about what is required for ADA compliance. As a result, the DOJ often refers to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), as the standard for ADA web compliance.

WCAG 2.1 Level AA has become the benchmark for ADA web compliance, even referenced in many joint lawsuits with the DOJ. However, it is important to note that there is no legal standard— even achieving WCAG 2.1 AA conformance does not fully protect you from lawsuits.

WCAG 2.1 consists of 78 success criteria written as pass-or-fail statements that address common accessibility issues, such as miss or non-descriptive alternative text and keyboard navigation.

The Rise of ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits

An ADA web accessibility lawsuit can be filed by anyone who feels they have been discriminated against due to a website’s inaccessibility.

The ADA’s relevance to websites and online applications is more than just theoretical. Since 2017, ADA Title III related lawsuits have skyrocketed, with 2,314 lawsuits filed in 2018 and over 4,061 cases in 2022. Overall, web accessibility lawsuits have increased by 175% over the past five years. Furthermore, these figures don’t include the rising number of ADA legal complaints and ADA compliance demand letters sent to businesses with non-accessible websites.

In 2022, 1,500 demand letters were sent per week. This represents a steep incline in legal actions pursued following the notice of non-accessible websites on the internet.

As an online business or website owner, it’s critical to ensure your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their disability. Doing so not only helps avoid legal action but also broadens your audience.

What Are the Most Common Accessibility Issues Cited In Legal Claims?

Most ADA website compliance lawsuits center around a few recurring issues, including:
1. Missing Image Descriptions or Alt Text: Images should have descriptive alt text that provides context or meaning for those who can’t see them.
2. Empty Links and Buttons: All links and buttons should have descriptive labels or text to inform users about their purpose.
3. Info and Content Structure: Information should be organized logically, and the content structure should be easily navigable by assistive technologies.
Why You Need to Take ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits Seriously

Web accessibility cases against large companies like Domino’s, Netflix, and H&R Block made headlines. However, most lawsuits are against small to medium-sized businesses. In 2022, 72% of ADA non-compliance lawsuits involved companies with less than $50 million in annual revenue.

These lawsuits can lead to stiff penalties. For example, businesses that violate Title III of the ADA may face a maximum civil penalty of $75,000 for a first violation. Subsequent violations have been seen with up to a $150,000 fine. Since the court would inevitably favor the plaintiff, small business owners often feel they have no choice but to settle out of court. But even the average ADA website lawsuit settlement still comes to $35,000.

The implications are clear: a non-accessible website is a significant liability for any company operating on the web today.

Find Out If Your Website is ADA Compliant

As a website owner, you must ensure your site is accessible to all, including those with disabilities. Understanding ADA Title III is a crucial step toward achieving this goal. Although the process may seem daunting, it’s a worthy investment that helps you avoid legal complications and improves your website’s usability and reach. So, why not start reviewing your website’s accessibility today?

Find out if your website is ADA compliant today by scheduling a 15-minute complimentary website audit and consultation with our experts at 216digital. We can help determine if your website is at risk of a lawsuit and offer fast, effective ADA compliance solutions. This ensures your site is accessible to everyone, reducing your risk of litigation so you can continue focusing on what matters most: running your business.
Greg McNeil

June 15, 2023

Legal Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
Do PDFs Need To Be Web Accessible?
PDFs have become a content staple for online businesses. From brochures and forms to e-books and reports, everyone uses PDFs, and with good reason. They’re compatible with most online content and are the ideal way to share and view information online.

But have you ever considered how accessible these documents are for disabled users? Despite their many advantages, PDFs often remain a closed book for people with disabilities.

Read on to learn what an accessible PDF is, how it will benefit your online business, and how to make your PDF files accessible to everyone.

The Popularity of PDF Documents

It’s not surprising that PDFs are used so much in the workplace. They are the perfect medium for presenting different types of information in a single document. Text, photos, charts, logos, and other items become fixed in a PDF, so the end-user can’t delete or reorder page elements.

PDFs also preserve the original formatting, fonts, and layout across different devices and operating systems. This ensures that your documents look the same to all users, regardless of their device.

Today, PDFs are the most widely used online document format. However, not all PDFs are made with accessibility in mind. While they may appear visually perfect, they can pose challenges for people with disabilities. But why are web-accessible PDFs important?

Why is PDF Accessibility Important?

While many businesses use PDFs for essential purposes, it’s important to remember that all online content must be fully accessible. Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses open to the public to provide complete and equal access to people with disabilities. Moreover, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has continuously taken the position that the ADA does apply to all online content, including PDFs.

When authoring your online documents, you must avoid creating barriers for individuals with disabilities. For example, many PDFs need the appropriate tags to define their structure and non-text content. These issues can create barriers for people who use screen readers and other assistive technologies. In that case, you may expose yourself to legal implications and accessibility-related lawsuits. So don’t take the risk; ensure that your PDFs are accessible.

Aren’t all PDFs Web Accessible?

Contrary to popular belief, PDFs are not automatically web-accessible. While all PDFs are created using standard desktop publishing tools, they are not explicitly designed with accessibility in mind. As a result, many PDFs contain severe obstacles that can be difficult for users with disabilities to navigate or understand.

For example, suppose someone with low vision or who is legally blind uses a screen reader. In that case, they won’t be able to read a standard PDF if it lacks alternative text descriptions for images. This is because assistive technology tools like screen readers are not automatically compatible with PDFs.

In order to make PDFs truly accessible, additional efforts must be taken to address these concerns.

How are Accessible PDFs Different?

The fundamental difference between an accessible and inaccessible PDF file is that one can be accessed, viewed, and interacted with by everybody. For a PDF to be considered accessible, it must meet a set of accessibility guidelines:
1. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): WCAG is the set of guidelines created by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. They provide pass-or-fail success criteria with recommendations that can be applied to web-delivered documents.WCAG 2.1 is the current standard, including specific guidelines for PDF accessibility.
2. PDF/UA 1 (ISO 14289-1) This is an international standard for accessible PDFs, which provides detailed technical specifications for creating accessible documents.
What Are Tag Trees, and How Do They Help Make PDFs Web Accessible?

Tagged trees, or “tag trees,” are the main elements for making a PDF accessible. These tags tell assistive technologies how to read the PDF content and identify headings, paragraphs, sections, and tables.

They ensure that assistive tech tools move from section to section in the correct order without skipping non-text items like graphs or images. By doing so, tag trees can help convey information about the document’s layout, reading order, and organization to assistive technologies.

Tag trees help make a PDF accessible in several ways:
1. Reading Order: Properly tagged PDFs define the correct reading order for the content, ensuring that the text is presented in a logical sequence that makes sense to the user. This is especially important for screen reader users who rely on a linear reading experience.
2. Alternative Text: Tags can include alternative text descriptions for non-text elements, such as images or charts. This allows screen readers to convey the purpose or meaning of these elements to users who cannot see them.
3. Navigation: Proper tagging enables users to navigate between different sections or elements of the document easily. For example, the user wants to move from one heading to another or jump to a specific list or table, proper tagging makes this possible.
To make PDFs accessible, they must be appropriately tagged. This can be done using various tools and software, such as Adobe Acrobat Pro, which allows you to add, edit, or validate tags in a PDF. By making PDFs accessible through the use of tag trees, you help ensure that people with disabilities can access, navigate, and understand your documents more effectively.

How to Make Your PDF Accessible

PDFs can be made accessible if you structure and tag them correctly to meet accessibility standards. However, creating your document with accessibility in mind from the beginning is much easier than editing it once it has been made!

Here are some tips to make your PDFs more accessible:
- Add descriptive text for images, charts, and other non-text elements.
- Ensure that your document follows a clear hierarchy with headings, lists, and tables (i.e., H1, H2, H3)
- Choose fonts that are easy to read and ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
- If interactive form fields need to be completed, ensure the user can enter values and move from one field to the next logically using the keyboard.
Some tools like Adobe Acrobat Pro and Acrobat DC add tags automatically with the “save as accessible PDF” function. However, they are not perfect. You’ll still need to check tags manually to ensure they match the content and are ADA-compliant.

How to Check PDFs for Web Accessibility

Every organization needs to consider accessibility from the first stages of document creation. PDFs are not only a legal requirement in many jurisdictions but also a smart business strategy. By making your PDFs accessible, you can reach a larger audience, improve your SEO, and demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity. Start implementing web accessibility into your PDF documents today by scheduling a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing with 216digital. Unlock the full potential of your online business.
Greg McNeil

April 10, 2023

Legal Compliance, WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools

What is Accessibility Testing?

Why Your Website Needs Accessibility Testing

Overview of Different Accessibility Testing Methods

Automated Testing

Manual Testing

Hybrid Testing

Choosing the Right Accessibility Audit for Your Goals

Overview of 216digital’s Accessibility Services

Phase 1: Risk Mitigation Service

Phase 2: Real-World Accessibility Service

How Combining Automated and Manual Testing Enhances Accessibility

216digital’s a11y.Radar Service for Ongoing Monitoring

How a11y.Radar Helps Prevent Frivolous ADA Lawsuits and Maintains Accessibility Compliance

Conclusion

Expertise and Knowledge

Comprehensive Testing

Making Judgment Calls

Up-to-date with Current Guidelines and Regulations

Efficiency and Focus

Considering 216digital as a Partner

Wrapping Up

What is Digital Accessibility?

Why Does Web Accessibility Matter?

Inclusivity and Equality

Legal Requirements

Business Benefits

Enhanced User Experience

What is Accessibility Training?

The Importance of Accessibility Training

Understanding User Needs

Staying Up-to-Date with Best Practices

Improving Technical Skills

Avoiding Legal Issues

Critical Components of Accessibility Training

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

Assistive Technologies

Practical Implementation

User Testing

How to Get Started with Accessibility Training

Online Courses

Professional Certifications

Join Accessibility Communities

Hands-On Practice

Conclusion

Challenges in Maintaining Accessibility

Challenges A Website Could Experience

What is Web Accessibility Monitoring?

Automated Monitoring

Manual Monitoring

Why You Should Use a Monitoring Service

1. Legal Compliance

2. Risk Management

3. Spotting Barriers Early

4. Documentation

5. Enhancing User Experience

6. Cost-Effective Development

What to Look for in a Monitoring Service

216digital’s a11y.Radar ADA Monitoring

What is an Overlay Widget?

What Do Accessibility Overlays Claim to Offer?

Accessibility Experts Voicing Concern

What is ADA Compliance?

Why Overlays Are Not Fully Accessible

The Limitations of Accessibility Overlays

Overlays Don’t Protect Against Web Accessibility Lawsuits

Accessibility Overlays Can Make You A Target

Lawsuit Mechanics

Lawsuit Claims

Public Record Evidence

2023 Overlay Litigation Wave

Privacy Concerns

Privacy Concerns and Legal Consequences

What Actions Should Website Owners Take?

Team Up with 216digital

Semantic HTML

What is Semantic HTML?

Why Semantic HTML Matters

Page Formatting

What are Headings?

What Does “Hierarchical” Mean?