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  • ADA Title II Conformance Mistakes to Avoid

    ADA Title II Conformance Mistakes to Avoid

    Let’s start with a familiar scene.

    A resident with low vision tries to pay a utility bill online. The button text fades into the background. They zoom in, squint, and finally give up. Across town, a veteran downloads a benefits form—but the PDF won’t open in their screen reader. They call, wait on hold, and eventually hear the same line everyone dreads: “Try again later.”

    These moments rarely make headlines, but they happen every day. And they’re exactly what ADA Title II conformance is designed to prevent.

    With new deadlines approaching, the clock is officially ticking. The Department of Justice has set clear expectations: every website, mobile app, and digital document must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards to be considered accessible.

    Still, even with those expectations in place, many agencies stumble—not from neglect, but from complexity. Outdated systems, legacy PDFs, limited budgets, and competing priorities all pull in different directions.

    This guide outlines ten of the most common pitfalls local governments encounter—and how your team can avoid them before small issues grow into time-consuming, costly problems.

    1 | Waiting Too Long to Begin ADA Title II Conformance

    One of the most common mistakes is simply waiting. Waiting for next year’s budget, a redesign, or until “things calm down.” But accessibility work takes time—often months, sometimes years—especially when legacy systems or vendor-managed platforms are involved. Every delay widens the gap and makes remediation more expensive.

    Start Small, but Start Now

    Begin with a WCAG 2.1 AA audit that targets your highest-traffic, highest-risk pages—payment portals, permit applications, emergency alerts. Use the findings to build a phased plan: tackle quick fixes first, then move into deeper remediation like PDFs or interactive content.

    Momentum matters more than perfection. Each resolved issue moves you closer to meaningful accessibility—and lasting ADA Title II conformance. But while hesitation can stall progress, so can taking the wrong kind of shortcut.

    2 | Relying on Widgets or “Quick Fixes”

    When deadlines loom, shortcuts start to look tempting. Accessibility widgets and overlays promise instant compliance, but the data tells a different story. Over 20% of ADA web lawsuits in 2024 involved sites using overlays, and many of those tools introduced new barriers for assistive technology users.

    Treat Them as Temporary Support at Best

    Widgets don’t repair flawed code—they mask it. Pair automated scans with manual testing to catch what machines miss. True accessibility isn’t something you install; it’s something you build, maintain, and test continuously. Even agencies that avoid quick fixes can still lose momentum when they misunderstand what an audit actually means.

    3 | Treating the Audit as the Finish Line

    An accessibility audit is a starting point, not a success story. It reveals what’s broken but doesn’t fix it. Too often, agencies check the box once the report arrives, assuming the work is done. Six months later, those same issues remain—and the deadline looms closer.

    Turn the Audit Into a Roadmap

    Assign clear ownership, set realistic timelines, and track each fix to completion. The goal isn’t to admire the findings; it’s to act on them. An audit shines the light, but ADA Title II conformance only comes from follow-through. Once remediation begins, it’s also essential to remember that accessibility extends beyond the desktop experience.

    4 | Overlooking Mobile Accessibility

    For many residents, your mobile site or app is their primary touchpoint with local government. If that experience isn’t accessible, your services aren’t either. Yet mobile testing often gets pushed aside until the very end—when changes are most expensive to make.

    Test Early and Test on Real Devices

    WCAG 2.1 includes mobile-specific guidance on touch targets, gestures, and orientation. Make sure forms resize correctly and navigation works without a mouse. Accessibility should follow the user, not the screen size. And while mobile access is crucial, so are the documents that so many residents rely on for daily interactions.

    5 | Ignoring Accessibility in Digital Documents

    Even when web pages pass compliance checks, PDFs and other downloadable materials often don’t. Forms, meeting agendas, and reports are some of the most common—and most problematic—files on public sites. The DOJ is clear: if a document provides public information or access to a service, it must be accessible.

    Audit Your Digital Library

    Start with frequently downloaded or required documents. Train staff to tag PDFs correctly or, when possible, convert them to HTML pages. Each accessible file removes another barrier and brings your agency closer to full ADA Title II conformance. Of course, even well-prepared teams can find their progress derailed by one common factor: vendors who don’t share the same standards.

    6 | Not Holding Vendors Accountable

    Even when third-party vendors manage your website, accessibility responsibility remains yours. Public agencies can’t outsource compliance. That’s why contracts matter as much as code.

    Bake Accessibility Into Every Partnership

    Specify WCAG 2.1 AA requirements, mandate assistive-technology testing, and require documentation at handoff. Accessibility clauses shouldn’t live in the fine print—they should be measurable deliverables written into the contract. Without vendor accountability, accessibility can erode quietly with each update. And even with vendor alignment, one final validation step ensures your work actually functions as intended.

    7 | Skipping Manual and Assistive-Technology Testing

    Automated tools are valuable, but they can’t replicate human experience. Navigation traps, mislabeled buttons, and confusing reading order often pass automated checks unnoticed.

    Manual Testing Closes That Gap

    Use screen readers, voice navigation, magnifiers, and keyboard-only controls to simulate how real people interact with your site. Better yet, invite users with disabilities to test and provide feedback. Their insights catch what automation never will—and validate genuine ADA Title II conformance. Still, even the most accessible site today can fall out of compliance tomorrow without ongoing monitoring.

    8 | Neglecting Ongoing Monitoring

    Accessibility isn’t a one-time project; it’s ongoing maintenance. A single CMS update or design tweak can reintroduce barriers.

    Make Monitoring Routine

    Schedule quarterly manual reviews and monthly automated scans. Keep a visible feedback form on your website so residents can report issues directly. Treat accessibility like preventative care: small, consistent checks that protect long-term health. But even with regular testing, the strongest defense is an informed team that knows how to prevent barriers before they happen.

    9 | Underestimating Accessibility Training

    Technology identifies issues, but people prevent them. Without training, the same mistakes—missing alt text, unlabeled forms, inaccessible PDFs—keep returning.

    Invest in Continuous Education

    Provide annual, role-specific training for content authors, developers, and procurement staff. Keep it practical: short sessions, clear checklists, and ongoing refreshers. When accessibility knowledge becomes second nature, compliance becomes culture. And when that culture takes root, it’s worth sharing it publicly.

    10 | Failing to Publish a Public Accessibility Statement

    A public accessibility statement isn’t a formality—it’s a promise. It tells residents, We’re committed, we’re listening, and we want your feedback.

    Publish a Concise Statement

    Reference your WCAG standard, list contact information for support, and update it at least once a year. This simple gesture builds transparency and trust—cornerstones of inclusive digital governance.

    ADA Title II Conformance Is About People, Not Just Policy

    Reaching ADA Title II conformance isn’t just about compliance—it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that every resident can access essential public services with independence and dignity.

    When your platforms are accessible, seniors can pay their bills without help. Parents can find school updates easily. Veterans can apply for benefits confidently.

    That’s not a technical milestone—it’s a civic one.

    Start early. Build steadily. Keep accessibility alive through training, monitoring, and accountability. Compliance may be the mandate, but inclusion is the mission.

    If your agency is ready to turn goals into measurable progress, schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. We’ll help you navigate these ten pitfalls and build a roadmap for sustainable, equitable access for every resident you serve.

    Greg McNeil

    September 30, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Title II, ADA Website Compliance, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility

  • aria‑selected: Practical Guide for Interactive UI

    Modern web applications thrive on interactivity. Tabs, listboxes, and data grids make complex tasks easier for sighted users—but without proper semantics, those same widgets can shut people out.

    For example, a set of tabs may look visually distinct, but unless screen readers know which tab is currently selected, the component is unusable for blind users. Similarly, keyboard-only users can be stranded if selection isn’t tied to focus and navigation logic.

    That’s where aria-selected comes in. This attribute bridges the gap between visual presentation and assistive technology, ensuring state changes are clearly communicated. In this guide, we’ll cover what aria-selected means, when to use it, real-world code examples, and best practices for building accessible interactions.

    Decoding aria-selected

    According to the WAI-ARIA specification, aria-selected communicates the selection state of an element in a widget. It doesn’t change visuals—it adds semantic meaning to the accessibility tree so assistive tech can interpret the UI correctly.

    Values Explained

    • true → This item is selected.
    • false → This item is selectable but not selected.
    • (Absence) → This item isn’t selectable at all.

    Tip: Roles that support aria-selected include: tab, option, row, gridcell, and treeitem. Use it only where a “selected” state makes sense.

    aria-selected vs. Other Attributes

    It’s easy to confuse aria-selected with other ARIA attributes. Here’s how to know when you’re using the right one:

    AttributePrimary PurposeTypical Components
    aria-selectedIndicates which item is currently chosenTabs, listboxes, grids, tables
    aria-checkedBinary on/off stateCheckboxes, radios
    aria-pressedToggle button active stateToolbar buttons
    aria-currentDenotes user’s current locationNav links, breadcrumbs

    Practical Use Cases & Code

    Tabs

    Tabs are a classic single-select widget. Only one tab can be selected at a time.

    <div role="tablist" aria-label="Profile sections">
  <button id="tab-overview" role="tab" aria-selected="true"
          aria-controls="panel-overview">Overview</button>
  <button id="tab-settings" role="tab" aria-selected="false"
          aria-controls="panel-settings">Settings</button>
</div>

<div id="panel-overview" role="tabpanel" aria-labelledby="tab-overview">
  <!-- Overview content -->
</div>
<div id="panel-settings" role="tabpanel" aria-labelledby="tab-settings" hidden>
  <!-- Settings content -->
</div>

    Implementation Notes

    • On click, Enter, or Space: update aria-selected, swap focus, and show the panel.
    • Keyboard navigation: Left/Right (or Up/Down for vertical), Home/End for quick jumps.

    Listbox (Multi-Select)

    Listboxes can be single- or multi-select. Here’s a multi-select version:

    <ul role="listbox" aria-label="Choose toppings"
    aria-multiselectable="true" tabindex="0"
    aria-activedescendant="opt-pepperoni">
  <li id="opt-pepperoni" role="option" aria-selected="true">Pepperoni</li>
  <li id="opt-mushroom"  role="option" aria-selected="false">Mushrooms</li>
  <li id="opt-olive"     role="option" aria-selected="false">Olives</li>
</ul>

    Interaction Details

    • Arrow keys move focus; aria-activedescendant updates to track the active item.
    • Space toggles selection state.
    • Ctrl/Shift + Arrow supports range selection like desktop apps.

    Grids / Spreadsheets

    Grids allow row and cell-level navigation. They’re common in dashboards and spreadsheets.

    <div role="grid" aria-label="Sales records" aria-activedescendant="cell-1-2">
  <div role="row">
    <div role="columnheader" aria-colindex="1">Date</div>
    <div role="columnheader" aria-colindex="2">Sales</div>
  </div>

  <div role="row" aria-rowindex="1">
    <div id="cell-1-1" role="gridcell" aria-colindex="1" aria-selected="false">Jan</div>
    <div id="cell-1-2" role="gridcell" aria-colindex="2" aria-selected="true">5 000</div>
  </div>
  <div role="row" aria-rowindex="2">
    <div id="cell-2-1" role="gridcell" aria-colindex="1" aria-selected="false">Feb</div>
    <div id="cell-2-2" role="gridcell" aria-colindex="2" aria-selected="false">4 200</div>
  </div>
</div>

    JavaScript Must Handle

    • Arrow keys move focus across cells and sync aria-activedescendant.
    • Space/Enter toggles aria-selected.
    • Optional: persist state (e.g., in localStorage) to remember selections.

    Best Practices for aria-selected

    Focus Management

    • In single-select widgets: focus stays inside, arrow keys update selection.
    • In multi-select widgets: focus moves independently, Space/Enter toggles states.
    • Always update aria-activedescendant dynamically.

    Visual Feedback Beyond Color

    • Don’t rely on color alone. Use icons, bold text, or borders.
    • WCAG 2.2 requires at least 3:1 contrast for selected/focus states.

    Keyboard Navigation

    • Tabs: Arrow keys, Home/End, Enter/Space to activate.
    • Listbox/Grid: Arrow keys plus Space/Enter (and Ctrl/Shift combos for multi-select).
    • Optional: Escape to clear selection or exit.

    Testing Your Implementation

    Accessibility doesn’t stop at code—it must be validated.

    • Screen reader testing: NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver should announce selection changes correctly.
    • Keyboard walkthroughs: Confirm focus order and selection behavior.
    • Automated checks: Useful for catching missing attributes, but always supplement with manual testing.

    Bonus Patterns

    Once you’re comfortable with the basics, aria-selected can also power:

    • ARIA Trees: File explorer-like navigation.
    • Carousels: Tabs-like controls for slide navigation.
    • Email-style panels: Combining aria-selected with aria-multiselectable for Gmail-style selection logic.

    Build with Inclusion from the Start

    The aria-selected attribute may seem small, but it represents a bigger principle: creating interfaces where everyone can interact equally.

    Accessibility is about thoughtful interaction design, not just compliance checklists. By implementing aria-selected correctly, you close the gap between a slick UI and one that’s truly inclusive.

    Don’t wait until launch—or worse, until a lawsuit—to think about accessibility. Build it in from the beginning, and both your users and your future self will thank you.

    Want clarity on how your site measures up or how to improve implementation? Schedule a private ADA briefing with 216digital and get expert insight on real-world accessibility practices.

    Greg McNeil

    September 29, 2025
    How-to Guides, Uncategorized
    Accessibility, ARIA, aria-selected, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility
  • Deck the Sales with Accessible Holiday Marketing

    Deck the Sales with Accessible Holiday Marketing

    Every holiday season, online retailers face the same challenge: how to keep up with surging traffic without losing customers to friction. Between November and December, nearly one-fifth of all retail sales happen online—meaning even the smallest accessibility barriers—an unreadable button, a missing label, a poorly designed modal—can quietly chip away at revenue.

    But there’s more at stake than missed sales. Accessibility now sits at the intersection of ethics, law, and business strategy. Making your digital experiences usable for everyone isn’t just compliance—it’s a mark of respect for your customers and a driver of measurable growth.

    Accessible holiday marketing is how smart teams turn inclusion into performance. It creates digital spaces that welcome all shoppers, reduce drop-offs, and reinforce brand trust at the busiest—and most competitive—time of year. Think of it as rolling out a digital welcome mat, trimmed in garland, for every customer who stops by your virtual store.

    Accessibility: An Ethical Imperative and a Business Advantage

    Accessibility began as an ethical conversation about fairness and inclusion. Today, it’s also a legal and financial necessity.

    Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related global laws, websites are expected to provide equal access to all users. The Department of Justice has affirmed that digital properties—especially those tied to commerce—fall under these requirements. Noncompliance can lead to lawsuits, settlements, and, more importantly, reputational damage that no brand wants under its tree.

    Yet beyond risk, the business upside is clear. One in four U.S. adults reports living with a disability, representing a purchasing power that exceeds $1 trillion globally. Accessibility doesn’t shrink your audience—it expands it.

    And 80% of consumers say a company’s experience matters as much as its products. In that sense, accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smarter way to compete. During the holidays, it’s also the easiest way to make sure no shopper gets left out in the cold.

    Where to Start: Building an Accessible Holiday Marketing Framework

    Accessibility shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought in the rush to wrap up year-end campaigns. Instead, build it into your existing production cycle. Here’s how to start unwrapping quick wins.

    Step 1: Define What Success Looks Like

    Don’t bolt accessibility on at the end. Bake accessible holiday marketing into the same workflow you use for performance and SEO.

    • Checkout completion rates: If shoppers abandon forms mid-purchase, that’s a red flag. Accessibility gaps here are like dropping presents halfway up the chimney.
    • Cart error rates: – Test both keyboard and screen reader sessions. If errors spike, navigation might need a tune-up.
    • Promo email click-throughs: Compare results with images off. If engagement plummets, you’re leaning too heavily on visuals.
    • Video completion rates: Captioned videos often earn longer watch times, proof that accessibility can shine brighter than any seasonal campaign light.

    Assign an owner for each KPI and add an accessibility review before code freeze—because nothing ruins the holiday rush like last-minute fixes.

    Step 2: Reduce Friction in the Core Shopping Flows

    The most impactful changes often live in the most familiar places: product discovery, product pages, and checkout.

    Product Discovery

    • Keyboard navigation: Every filter, dropdown, and toggle should be usable without a mouse. No one wants to wrestle with a website like tangled lights.
    • Visible focus states: Highlight where users are on the page with clear outlines—think of it as a guiding star through your interface.
    • Logical tab order: Keep navigation smooth and intuitive; users shouldn’t feel like they’re lost in the wrapping paper.
    • Clear labeling: Add ARIA labels and visible names to controls so everyone knows what each button does.

    Good navigation is like a perfectly organized gift list—clear, predictable, and satisfying to check off.

    Product Pages

    • Descriptive alt text: Replace “red shirt” with “close-up of red cotton t-shirt with crew neckline.” Paint a picture worth a thousand words—and conversions.
    • Text-based selectors: Pair swatches with visible text for color and size. Don’t make users guess whether “cranberry” means red or pink.
    • Live region announcements: Notify assistive technologies when stock, price, or promotions change. No one likes a surprise sellout mid-cart.

    Clarity here means fewer returns—and happier unboxings.

    Checkout

    Checkout is where good design proves its worth.

    • Label everything clearly:  Every field should say exactly what it wants — “Email address,” “Zip code,” not “Field 1.” When users can fill out a form without guessing, they finish faster.
    • Put errors where they happen: If someone types their card number wrong, the message should appear right there, not two scrolls away. Nobody wants to play “Where’s Waldo?” in the middle of a purchase.
    • Skip the impossible CAPTCHA: If you must verify humans, use a simple checkbox or a one-line logic question.
    • Keep focus steady: When a payment pop-up opens, the cursor shouldn’t vanish. Trap focus inside the modal and return users to the right spot when it closes.
    • Do a keyboard-only run-through: It takes five minutes. If you can buy something with just the Tab key, you’re in good shape.

    It’s not glamorous work, but it’s what turns a holiday shopper into a paying customer.

    Step 3: Design an Accessible Holiday Marketing Campaign 

    Color, Contrast, and Motion

    • Contrast ratios: Keep text clear—even against festive reds, greens, or snowy whites. 4.5:1 is the magic number.
    • Motion reduction: Add a “pause animation” option for sparkling banners or falling snow. Not everyone enjoys a blizzard of motion.
    • Test on multiple screens: Preview your site in bright daylight or cozy lamplight—holiday shoppers browse everywhere.

    Accessibility ensures your creativity glows without overwhelming.

    Email Accessibility Best Practices

    Holiday emails do a lot of heavy lifting, so make them easy to read even when half the inbox blocks your images.

    • Use real text for the important stuff. If your subject line says “50% Off,” that shouldn’t vanish the moment images are turned off.
    • Write links that make sense out of context. “Unwrap Today’s Deals” works better than “Click here” — and it keeps your brand voice intact.
    • Keep the structure simple. Short paragraphs, real headings, and logical flow help screen readers — and people reading on their phones at the kitchen table.
    • Underline your links. It’s not old-fashioned; it’s functional. Some users can’t rely on color alone to spot a link.

    Think of your holiday campaign like a greeting card — clean, clear, and worth opening.

    Video and Social Content

    • Closed captions: Accurate, human-checked captions help everyone follow along, from office multitaskers to late-night shoppers.
    • Transcripts: Perfect for anyone scrolling during family movie night with the volume low.
    • Hashtags and emojis: Use camel case (#MerryAndBright) and keep emojis at the end of posts.
    • Alt text: Describe visuals on social posts so every viewer can feel part of the moment.

    Small accessibility touches here make your brand feel thoughtful—like that handwritten tag on a gift.

    Step 4: Test Early and Often

    Automated Checks

    • Integrate tools: Add accessibility scans to your CI/CD pipeline so errors get fixed faster than you can say “ugly sweater.”
    • Catch recurring issues: Run tests regularly to stop regressions before launch.
    • Treat failures seriously: Missing alt text should be a showstopper, not a “we’ll fix it next year.”

    Manual Spot Checks

    • Keyboard audits: Tab through product → cart → checkout. If you can’t complete it, neither can Santa’s helpers.
    • Screen reader reviews: Listen to how your site reads aloud—clarity here is worth its weight in gold tinsel.
    • Record findings: Short video clips make debugging faster than long lists of notes.

    Pre-Launch Governance

    • Accessibility sign-off: Make it part of your “naughty or nice” launch checklist.
    • Track waivers: If something’s postponed, record a fix date to stay accountable.
    • Align with performance metrics: Accessibility deserves a seat at the same table as SEO and load time.

    Step 5: Expand Accessibility Across the Journey

    Accessibility shouldn’t stop at checkout—it should carry through every touchpoint.

    Landing Pages and Paid Ads

    • Avoid autoplay: Let users control media playback; not everyone wants surprise carols.
    • Write clear CTAs: Use straightforward text like “Explore Holiday Offers” instead of “Learn More.”
    • Add multiple cues: Combine color, text, and icons so everyone can understand your visuals.
    • Keep it fast: Optimize load times. Accessibility and speed go hand in hand.

    Retention and Loyalty

    • Organize gift guides: Use clear headings and a logical structure for quick navigation.
    • Make wishlists keyboard-friendly: Ensure “Add to Wishlist” works with both mouse and keyboard.
    • Announce updates: When something’s back in stock, let assistive tech announce it too.

    Accessible holiday marketing builds trust—and trust keeps customers coming back long after the decorations come down.

    Step 6: Equip Customer Support to Handle Accessibility

    • Multiple contact options: Offer phone, chat, and email—because not everyone writes letters to the North Pole.
    • Accessible chat tools: Check focus order and make sure screen readers can announce new messages.
    • Transparent status: Display service hours and response times to prevent frustration.
    • Proactive communication: Post banners if known issues exist, and provide alternative paths to complete purchases.
    • Train support teams: Teach staff how to gather details about accessibility problems. The more context they collect, the faster fixes arrive.

    Support should feel like a helping hand, not a closed door.

    Step 7: Measure, Learn, Improve

    • Segment analytics: Compare behavior by input method—keyboard, mouse, or touch—to spot friction points.
    • Correlate updates: Link accessibility fixes to conversion data; seeing the lift is like watching sales lights twinkle in real time.
    • Weekly check-ins: A 15-minute accessibility stand-up keeps everyone aligned during peak traffic.
    • Post-season reflection: Capture what worked and what needs improvement before the next holiday rush.

    Accessibility improvement is the one gift that keeps on giving.

    Quick-Start Accessible Holiday MarketingChecklist

    This Week

    • Tab-test PDP → Cart → Checkout to ensure a clear path to purchase.
    • Update alt text for the top 100 SKUs with product details and purpose.
    • Caption all holiday videos—think of it as wrapping each message neatly.

    This Month

    • Automate accessibility scans so no error sneaks into the new year.
    • Refine email templates with an accessible, mobile-friendly design.
    • Test campaigns with images off—your message should still shine.

    Before Code Freeze

    • Perform a manual screen reader review of top pages.
    • Publish an accessibility contact channel so feedback doesn’t get lost in the snow.

    From Cart to Claus: Keeping Every Shopper Included

    Accessibility has moral weight—it ensures equal participation in the digital marketplace. It has legal weight—it aligns with ADA and WCAG standards. And it has business weight—it strengthens loyalty, protects brand trust, and captures a broader audience.

    Accessible holiday marketing ties all three together like a perfectly wrapped gift. It makes the web fairer, the experience smoother, and the business stronger.

    For teams wanting to check their list twice, an ADA briefing with 216digital helps identify high-ROI accessibility improvements before peak traffic. Our experts help teams unwrap the quick wins—and keep the momentum into the new year.

    After all, inclusion isn’t just a seasonal sentiment—it’s how lasting customer relationships begin.

    Greg McNeil

    September 26, 2025
    Content Marketing, Digital Marketing, How-to Guides
    Accessibility, Digital Marketing, How-to, Marketing, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
  • How Small Businesses Grapple with Web Accessibility Lawsuits

    How Small Businesses Grapple with Web Accessibility Lawsuits

    For many small business owners, the word lawsuit evokes images of high-stakes corporate battles—teams of lawyers in conference rooms, million-dollar settlements, and brands big enough to weather the storm.

    But in reality, the wave of web accessibility lawsuits sweeping across the U.S. often hits much smaller targets.

    In recent years, small businesses—local cafés, independent retailers, family-run service providers—have found themselves on the receiving end of legal complaints claiming their websites are inaccessible to people with disabilities. These cases don’t usually come with a warning. They arrive as letters in the mail, full of legal language and urgent deadlines, leaving owners stunned and scrambling to respond.

    Unlike large corporations with compliance departments and legal reserves, small business owners are often left to figure it out on their own—what went wrong, what the law actually says, and how to move forward without breaking the bank.

    And while the circumstances can feel unfair, one truth is clear: web accessibility lawsuits aren’t going away. Understanding why they happen and what you can do to prevent them is the best way to protect your business—and your peace of mind.

    Why Small Businesses Are Being Targeted

    The Rise of Web Accessibility Lawsuits

    The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990 to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities in public spaces. When it was written, the internet wasn’t yet a part of everyday life—but times have changed.

    Today, many courts interpret websites as “public accommodations,” putting them under the same umbrella as physical storefronts. That interpretation has opened the door for an entirely new wave of lawsuits.

    Some are filed by individuals who genuinely struggle to access websites using assistive technologies like screen readers. Others, however, are part of a broader trend: serial filings from the same plaintiffs and attorneys across multiple states. These suits often focus on small businesses because they’re seen as more likely to settle quickly.

    To many business owners, it feels like an ambush. One day, you’re updating your menu or uploading new photos. Next, you’re being told your website violates federal law.

    Why Small Businesses Feel It More

    For large companies, web accessibility lawsuits might be just another line item in the budget. But for small businesses, even a single case can threaten financial stability.

    Legal fees, settlements, and remediation costs can easily climb into the tens of thousands of dollars. That’s not counting the time and emotional energy spent dealing with it. Some owners describe the experience as “devastating,” especially when they didn’t even know they were noncompliant in the first place.

    Part of the problem is clarity—or rather, the lack of it. There’s no single, government-issued checklist for web accessibility. While WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) serves as the global standard, it can be difficult to interpret for non-technical teams. This uncertainty leaves small businesses vulnerable to opportunistic legal action and inconsistent enforcement.

    Common Accessibility Pitfalls That Trigger Lawsuits

    Accessibility isn’t just about how your site looks—it’s about whether everyone can use it.

    Here are the issues most commonly cited in web accessibility lawsuits:

    • Missing alternative text on images leaves screen reader users without context.
    • Low color contrast makes text hard to read for people with visual impairments.
    • Missing or mislabeled forms prevent users from submitting contact or checkout forms.
    • Keyboard traps, where menus or modals can’t be navigated without a mouse.
    • Videos without captions exclude users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
    • Inconsistent heading structures, which confuse those relying on assistive tech.

    Each one might seem minor in isolation—but together, they can make a site frustrating or even impossible to use for some visitors. And in legal terms, that can be enough to establish discrimination.

    The Danger of Reactive Fixes

    When that demand letter lands, panic is a natural response. The instinct is to fix things—fast. But rushing into patchwork solutions can backfire.

    Reactive fixes often lead to:

    • Rushed, costly work. Under pressure, businesses may implement quick fixes or install accessibility overlays. These promise “instant compliance” but often introduce new accessibility barriers.
    • Repeat lawsuits. A settlement doesn’t guarantee safety. If underlying issues persist, another plaintiff can file again.
    • Operational disruption. Time spent dealing with attorneys and developers means less time running your business.
    • Reputation damage. Web accessibility lawsuits can spread quickly online, leading customers to question your values or professionalism.

    A reactive mindset puts out today’s fire—but it doesn’t build long-term resilience.

    A Practical Path Forward

    The good news: accessibility doesn’t have to be overwhelming or financially crushing. A thoughtful, steady approach can protect your business and make your site stronger for every customer.

    1. Start with a Risk Assessment

    You can’t fix what you don’t know. Begin with an accessibility audit to see where you stand.

    Automated tools can catch obvious issues like missing alt text or broken labels, while manual testing—especially by someone familiar with assistive tech—uncovers deeper usability problems.

    Focus on the most impactful changes first: navigation, forms, buttons, and media. You don’t need to be perfect on day one, but you do need a plan.

    2. Be Wary of “Quick Fix” Tools

    Accessibility overlays and plug-ins often advertise themselves as easy, one-click solutions. Unfortunately, courts have already ruled that these tools do not equal compliance.

    They may mask issues visually, but they rarely address the root cause in your site’s code or structure. Instead, invest your time in meaningful remediation—updates to templates, alt text, ARIA labels, and keyboard navigation. Those changes last.

    3. Make Accessibility an Ongoing Habit

    Accessibility isn’t a box you check once—it’s a standard you maintain.

    Treat it like any other part of your content process:

    • Add alt text when uploading new images.
    • Check contrast when designing new banners.
    • Test your forms after updates.

    By embedding accessibility into daily operations, you avoid regressions and build muscle memory for future projects.

    4. Document Your Efforts

    Intent matters. If you’re ever challenged, showing proof of good-faith efforts can go a long way.

    Keep records of audits, remediation steps, developer training, or accessibility statements. These documents show that you’re working toward compliance—not ignoring it. Courts tend to look more favorably on businesses that can demonstrate ongoing commitment, even if their site isn’t perfect yet.

    5. Bring in Expert Support

    Some accessibility barriers—especially those involving ARIA attributes, dynamic content, or complex UI elements—require specialized expertise. Partnering with an experienced accessibility consultant or development team ensures your fixes are accurate, lasting, and compliant.

    Think of it like hiring a professional accountant during tax season. You could try to do it yourself, but expert guidance saves you from costly mistakes later.

    The Upside: Accessibility as an Advantage

    Many businesses come to accessibility through fear of web accessibility lawsuits—but stay for the benefits.

    Accessibility isn’t just risk management. It’s good business.

    • More customers. Over 70 million Americans live with a disability, representing nearly $490 billion in disposable income.
    • SEO gains. Search engines reward clear structure and descriptive text—two cornerstones of accessibility.
    • Better user experience. Simplified navigation and cleaner layouts make your site easier for everyone to use.
    • Future readiness. Accessibility standards continue to evolve. Starting now means you’re already ahead of the next update.

    When you approach accessibility as an investment in usability—not just compliance—you build trust, credibility, and customer loyalty.

    A Message of Reassurance

    If you’ve been hit with a lawsuit or are afraid of one coming, take a breath. You’re not alone. Thousands of small businesses are navigating the same challenges.

    Yes, the system can feel unfair. But accessibility itself isn’t your enemy—it’s your opportunity to create a better experience for everyone who visits your site.

    With a proactive mindset, steady progress, and expert help where needed, you can reduce risk without draining your resources.

    Small, consistent improvements go further than perfection ever will.

    Support, Not Scrutiny—That’s Where Change Begins

    Web accessibility lawsuits have created an uneasy environment for small businesses—caught between complex rules and opportunistic claims. But the way forward doesn’t have to be reactive or defensive.

    By understanding common pitfalls, focusing on meaningful fixes, and committing to accessibility as an ongoing practice, you can move from uncertainty to confidence.

    Accessibility isn’t about flawless compliance overnight. It’s about inclusion, usability, and respect—for your customers, your business, and your community.

    When your website works for everyone, you’re not just avoiding lawsuits.

    You’re building a stronger, more resilient brand—one that welcomes every visitor, every time.

    If you’re unsure where to begin or want clarity on your current risk, 216digital offers personalized ADA briefings designed to help small businesses understand their obligations, assess exposure, and chart a practical path forward.

    Schedule an ADA Briefing today and take the first step toward peace of mind and long-term compliance.

    Greg McNeil

    September 25, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    Accessibility, ADA Lawsuit, Small Business, web accessibility lawsuits, Website Accessibility
  • Document Accessibility: Read Between the Lines

    Document Accessibility: Read Between the Lines

    Forms, reports, policies—documents are at the heart of how organizations communicate. They guide collaboration within teams, shape the way businesses present information to clients, and carry essential services from government agencies to the people who rely on them. Yet in conversations about accessibility, documents are often left behind while websites and apps take center stage.

    Here’s the truth: more than 1.3 billion people worldwide live with disabilities. When documents aren’t accessible, they don’t just frustrate users—they block access to opportunities, services, and information. And those barriers come with consequences: compliance risks, wasted resources, and lasting damage to trust.

    This article explores why document accessibility matters, the risks of ignoring it, and the practical steps any organization can take to make inclusivity part of every page.

    Why Documents Get Left Behind

    When accessibility comes up, the spotlight usually lands on websites and apps. Documents, by comparison, are treated like static files—uploaded once and quickly forgotten. But unlike a web page that can be redesigned or corrected on the fly, a document can sit in a folder for years, carrying the same barriers forward each time it’s shared.

    That’s where the challenge really begins. Over time, organizations accumulate thousands of forms, reports, and guides. Without document accessibility built in, every one of those files can become a roadblock for someone simply trying to get information. And here’s the irony: even if your website is fully compliant, a single inaccessible PDF can undo that progress in one click.

    Think about the typical customer or employee journey. They may interact with your website first, but sooner or later, they’ll be asked to download a policy, fill out a form, or read a report. If that moment becomes a dead end because the file wasn’t created with accessibility in mind, the experience fractures. What could have been a seamless process becomes a frustrating—and sometimes exclusionary—obstacle.

    It’s not a minor detail. It’s a gap that matters.

    The Ripple Effect of Inaccessible Documents

    Ignoring accessibility doesn’t just inconvenience a few people—it ripples outward, affecting user experience, compliance, operations, and public trust.

    Excluding People Who Rely on Assistive Technology

    Picture navigating a long policy document with no headings, a jumbled reading order, or unlabeled tables. For someone using a screen reader, that isn’t just confusing—it’s exclusion. Instead of being empowered with information, the user is essentially told: this wasn’t made with you in mind. Document accessibility flips that experience, replacing confusion with clarity and restoring equal access.

    For many people, this isn’t a matter of preference; it’s a matter of participation. A job seeker filling out an application, a student applying for financial aid, or a patient reviewing a health policy—each of these moments hinges on clear, usable documents. When accessibility is missing, doors close. When it’s present, those same doors open wide.

    Legal and Compliance Risks

    Accessibility laws don’t stop at websites. In the U.S., Section 508 requires federal agencies and contractors to make documents accessible. Courts increasingly reference WCAG in ADA-related cases, and states like California and Colorado explicitly include documents in their accessibility standards.

    This means organizations that overlook document accessibility aren’t just leaving users behind—they’re exposing themselves to avoidable legal and financial risks. Settlements, remediation costs, and reputational fallout can far outweigh the effort it would have taken to build accessibility in from the beginning.

    Strains on Operations and Budgets

    Waiting to retrofit inaccessible files is like ignoring a small leak until the basement floods. By the time the problem surfaces, you’re dealing with archives of PDFs, Word files, and PowerPoints that all need fixing. That kind of scramble drains resources at the exact moment teams need them most.

    By contrast, building accessibility into workflows from the start keeps projects moving smoothly and reduces long-term costs. It’s the difference between consistently maintaining a car and waiting for the engine to fail—one approach keeps you moving, the other leaves you stranded.

    Damage to Trust and Reputation

    Accessibility is also about values. Every time someone encounters an inaccessible document, it can feel like a closed door. On the flip side, organizations that consistently publish accessible files send a very different message: we thought of you, and you matter here.

    That kind of trust sticks. Customers who feel included are more likely to stay loyal. Employees who see their organization invest in accessibility feel valued and supported. Communities notice when organizations lead with inclusion rather than scramble after being called out.

    Habits That Make Documents Accessible

    The encouraging part is that accessibility doesn’t hinge on massive overhauls. It comes down to steady, thoughtful habits that make communication easier for everyone.

    • Start with what matters most. Prioritize high-impact files like benefits forms, contracts, or applications—where barriers are most costly.
    • Keep it clear and legible. Use readable fonts at accessible sizes, and ensure strong color contrast. Don’t make users squint or guess.
    • Guide readers with structure. Headings, bullet points, and logical reading order transform a wall of text into something navigable.
    • Write links with meaning. Swap vague text like “click here” for specifics such as “Download the 2024 Annual Report.”
    • Label charts and tables. A short title or alt text can make data accessible where it otherwise would be invisible.
    • Double-check reading order. Confirm assistive technologies present content in the intended sequence.
    • Use plain, approachable language. Accessibility and clarity overlap—what’s easier for one person usually helps everyone.
    • Think accessibility early. Bake it into templates and workflows. What’s built right the first time doesn’t have to be rebuilt later.
    • Build team confidence. Training, resources, and occasional outside expertise embed document accessibility into culture, not just checklists.

    When these habits become routine, accessibility stops feeling like an “extra step.” It becomes part of what good communication looks like.

    Building a Culture That Lasts

    Accessibility isn’t a one-off project—it’s a mindset. Organizations that delay or treat it as optional often find themselves scrambling later, stuck between urgent deadlines and legal requirements.

    Those that weave document accessibility into everyday work create a foundation for resilience and growth. They also discover a simple truth: when documents are accessible, they serve everyone better. Employees waste less time fixing broken files. Customers encounter fewer frustrations. Leaders gain the peace of mind that comes from knowing their communications reflect both compliance and care.

    At its core, this work is about people. Every accessible document removes one more barrier. Each one tells the reader: we see you, we planned for you, and you belong here. That’s more than compliance. That’s care in action.

    From Awareness to Action

    Accessible documents reduce inefficiency, protect against legal risks, and strengthen reputations. But beyond the practical, they serve a human purpose: making sure vital information—job applications, financial aid forms, health policies—is available to everyone.

    Document accessibility isn’t an afterthought. It’s the foundation of fair, effective communication.

    If your organization is ready to turn awareness into action, schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. We’ll help you build a strategy that makes accessibility part of your culture—so every file reflects not just compliance, but genuine inclusion.

    Greg McNeil

    September 24, 2025
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility
    Accessibility, accessible documents, accessible PDF, PDF, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
  • Why 2025 Is All Talking Inclusive Brand Design

    Why 2025 Is All Talking Inclusive Brand Design

    Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty fragrance bottle did more than launch a scent—it made a statement. Co-created with a hand therapist, the rounded bottle sits comfortably in the hand, and its spray requires little effort to use. It’s beautiful, it’s practical, and it’s proof that accessibility doesn’t weaken design—it strengthens it, setting a new standard for what good design looks like.

    That’s the essence of inclusive brand design. When thoughtfulness meets elegance, accessibility doesn’t water down your brand—it elevates it. And in 2025, customers expect that same level of intention in every part of the experience, including digital spaces.

    The Business Case for Inclusive Brand Design

    Rare Beauty shows how inclusive brand design that removes barriers builds loyalty—not just among people with disabilities but among their families, friends, and communities. Today’s consumer base—especially Millennials and Gen Z—cares about values as much as products. They expect brands to reflect social responsibility in ways that are tangible.

    When accessibility becomes part of your brand’s DNA, you send a clear message: you belong here. That emotional connection pays off in loyalty, repeat business, and word-of-mouth advocacy.

    The Market Opportunity

    And that loyalty doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it ties directly to spending power. Globally, more than 1.3 billion people live with a disability. When you factor in families and support networks, the purchasing power of this community reaches $13 trillion annually. This is not a niche—it’s one of the most influential markets in the world.

    Rare Beauty’s own growth underscores the opportunity. By 2023, it had generated $350 million in sales, fueled in part by its reputation for accessibility and inclusivity. Inclusive brand design isn’t a side initiative anymore—it’s a driver of brand strength.

    The Digital Disconnect in Inclusive Brand Design

    But here’s where many brands stumble. They may create a product that’s thoughtful and inclusive, but their digital storefront doesn’t measure up. Maybe the packaging is easy to open, but the checkout can’t be navigated with a screen reader. Perhaps the store welcomes everyone, but the app’s colors make it unusable for many. These gaps aren’t just inconvenient—they’re exclusionary.

    The Reality in Numbers

    And customers feel these gaps every day—the numbers confirm it. WebAIM’s research across one million homepages found nearly 51 million accessibility errors—an average of 51 per site. More than 94% of homepages had at least one WCAG violation. Meanwhile, nine out of ten users say they’ve personally encountered accessibility barriers while browsing. And the impact is immediate: 70% of disabled shoppers abandon websites that are too difficult to use.

    The Unfinished Promise

    Behind those numbers are people who want to engage with a brand and can’t. That’s what makes digital inaccessibility more than a technical issue—it’s an unfinished promise. A brand may succeed in making products inclusive, but if its digital presence doesn’t reflect that same care, customers notice. It’s not just a broken experience—it costs brands sales, trust, and reputation.

    The Benefits of Embracing Digital Accessibility

    The good news is, every barrier you remove creates an opportunity. Where inaccessible design closes doors, inclusive brand design opens them—to new customers, stronger relationships, and measurable business gains.

    Reach More Customers, Build More Trust

    When brands invest in accessibility, they close that gap. They prove their values go deeper than marketing copy, and customers reward that consistency with loyalty and advocacy. Accessibility, in practice, becomes one of the clearest signals of integrity.

    Boost Search Visibility

    And the benefits don’t stop with customers. Accessibility improvements often strengthen a site’s technical foundation, which search engines reward. Clear structures, descriptive alt text, and intuitive navigation make it easier for Google to crawl and index content. A study by Semrush and Accessibility Checker found that 73% of sites improving accessibility saw organic traffic increase, averaging 12% growth.

    Better Experiences for Everyone

    Accessibility also lifts usability across the board. Captions help both deaf viewers and commuters watching in noisy environments. Strong color contrast helps those with low vision and anyone outdoors in bright light. Larger tap targets assist users with motor limitations and people juggling a phone in one hand. When accessibility is built in, everyone benefits.

    Efficiency and ROI Gains

    And inside the business, accessibility creates efficiency. Cleaner, structured code reduces development rework. Streamlined flows cut down on support tickets. Easier checkouts lift conversion rates. The ROI is striking: Forrester estimates that every $1 invested in accessibility can return up to $100 in benefits. It’s proof that accessibility doesn’t just pay off in trust—it pays off in operations too.

    Five Building Blocks for Inclusive Brand Design Online

    Recognizing the benefits of accessibility is just the beginning. The real progress comes from knowing how to put those values into practice. Accessibility doesn’t just appear—it’s the result of clear priorities and consistent habits.

    These five building blocks give you a practical, everyday path forward:

    1. Start with the Standards

    Start with WCAG 2.1/2.2 Level AA. These guidelines are practical blueprints for creating experiences that are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust.

    2. Audit, Prioritize, and Iterate

    Run an accessibility audit to map where you stand. Fix the highest-impact issues first—navigation, forms, alt text, and color contrast. Take it step by step; progress compounds quickly.

    3. Design and Develop for Accessibility

    Accessibility isn’t something you tack on at the end—it’s built in. Use semantic HTML. Structure headings clearly. Write meaningful alt text. Provide captions and transcripts. Ensure your site works fully by keyboard and with screen readers.

    4. Blend Automation with Human Testing

    Automated tools catch a lot, but only about 30% of real-world barriers. Human testing, especially with assistive technology users, surfaces the rest. Together, they give you both coverage and authenticity.

    5. Create a Culture, Not a Checklist

    Most importantly, make accessibility part of the way your brand works, not just a task on the to-do list. Train teams across design, development, and content. Build accessible components into your design systems. Encourage accountability so accessibility becomes second nature, woven into your culture.

    A Chance to Lead With Inclusion

    Every interaction online tells people something about your brand. When your digital spaces aren’t accessible, that message can be louder than you think—even if it wasn’t your intent. Customers notice when barriers are in the way, and they remember which brands make it simple to connect.

    Accessibility isn’t just a box to check anymore—it’s what separates brands that feel relevant from those that feel outdated. With 88% of websites still missing the mark on compliance, the chance to stand out is wide open. Choosing accessibility is more than compliance; it’s a clear sign that your values extend from the products you offer to the way people experience your brand online.

    At 216digital, we help make accessibility part of your everyday design process, not something tacked on at the end. If you’re ready to create an inclusive and dependable online presence, schedule an ADA briefing with us today. Let’s make sure your online spaces reflect the same care and integrity as the products you’re proud to share with the world.

    Greg McNeil

    September 23, 2025
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility
    Accessibility, Accessible Design, Benefits of Web Accessibility, Inclusive design, Web Accessibility, Web Accessible Design, Website Accessibility
  • Say More with Accessible Web Content

    Say More with Accessible Web Content

    We spend a lot of time tuning headlines and chasing algorithms. But the work that truly moves the needle is simpler: say what you mean so more people can use it. Clear content builds trust, lowers support requests, and makes your message easier to find. That’s the power of accessible web content—it helps people first, and performance follows.

    Content isn’t a “design extra” in accessibility. Writers, editors, marketers, and developers shape how people understand a page. This article offers practical, jargon-light techniques you can apply right now. They align with WCAG, but they’re written for real teams on real deadlines, with real audiences who just want answers that make sense.

    Plain Language Is the Heart of Accessible Web Content

    Plain language is not “dumbing it down.” It’s respect. Many public-facing teams aim for an elementary reading level; professional material often targets a middle-school level. And when you’re busy, simple always wins—whether you’re a novice or an expert scanning on a phone between meetings.

    Try this:

    • Use a readability tool (Hemingway, Grammarly) to check grade level.
    • Swap jargon for everyday words. “The site adjusts to your screen” beats “utilizes responsive design principles.”
    • Prefer active voice: “Change your password every three months,” not “It is recommended…”
    • Lead with the point, then add detail.
    • Keep one idea per paragraph. Use person-first, inclusive language when you reference people with disabilities.

    Short sentences steady the pace. A few longer ones add rhythm and nuance. Together, they make meaning land without strain.

    Make Your Page Easy to Scan—By People and Tools

    Titles, URLs, and headings are how busy readers—and assistive tech—map a page. If the map is messy, the journey is slow.

    Best practices:

    • Write unique, descriptive titles. Put the most important words first and, when it fits, match the H1.
    • Use readable URLs (/web-design-services, not ?id=47289).
    • Use one H1. Nest headings in order (H2 → H3) like chapters and subchapters.

    Screen reader users often navigate by headings. A logical outline turns scanning into understanding. Clear structure makes pages easier to skim, and it makes accessible web content faster to find, reuse, and maintain.

    Links and Images That Strengthen Accessible Web Content

    “Click here” makes people guess. It also fails when a screen reader pulls out a list of links with no surrounding context.

    Instead:

    • Write link text that stands on its own: “Download the accessibility guide.”
    • Make labels unique so users know which link goes where.

    Effective Alt Text

    Alt text explains an image’s purpose when images don’t load or when a user can’t see them.

    Guidelines:

    • Be concise—under ~125 characters—and capture what the image means to the page.
    • Decorative images should be skipped with empty alt text (alt="").
    • For complex visuals (charts, infographics), add a short alt summary and provide a fuller explanation nearby.

    These small choices help everyone—search engines, skimmers, and people using assistive tech—get the same story.

    Accessible Audio and Video for Every Situation

    Not everyone can turn on sound. Some people prefer reading. Others are in a noisy shop or a quiet office. Without captions or transcripts, they miss your message.

    Do this:

    • Provide accurate, synchronized captions. Add speaker labels when voices change.
    • Offer transcripts with timestamps and descriptions of meaningful sounds or visuals.
    • Edit auto-generated captions. They’re a starting point, not a finish line.

    Captions and transcripts travel well across devices and contexts, turning media into content that’s flexible, shareable, and dependable—another pillar of accessible web content.

    Guidance That Doesn’t Assume Vision or Memory

    Task-heavy pages—forms, checkouts, dashboards—depend on clear instructions. Plain direction removes guesswork and stress.

    Practical moves:

    • Use direct, concrete prompts: “Enter your full name and email address.”
    • State rules up front: “Password must be at least 8 characters.”
    • Write helpful errors that explain what went wrong and how to fix it: “Enter a valid email, like name@example.com.”
    • Don’t rely on color, location, or shape alone. If you say “the green button on the right,” also name the button.

    The goal is guidance that stands on its own—no color key, no guessing, no hidden requirements.

    Formatting That Keeps Accessible Web Content Readable

    Good layout choices help everyone. They also keep cognitive load low.

    Recommendations:

    • Left-align text. Full justification can create rivers of space that are harder to read.
    • Choose legible sans-serif fonts at a comfortable size (around 16px / 12pt or larger).
    • Give text room to breathe with generous line spacing and white space.
    • Keep paragraphs short (3–4 sentences). Use lists for steps and grouped ideas.
    • Verify pages remain readable and usable when zoomed to 200%.
    • Ensure sufficient color contrast (aim for at least 4.5:1 for normal text). Don’t rely on color alone for meaning.

    These choices signal care. They tell readers, “We made room for you here.”

    Why These Techniques Matter

    WCAG 2.2 (W3C’s current recommendation) gives teams a shared yardstick. The POUR framework—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust—turns good writing habits and clean structure into checks you can actually verify. Here’s how that plays out in day-to-day work:

    • Perceivable: Make meaning available beyond sight alone. 1.1.1 Non-text Content asks for useful alt text; 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum) expects readable color contrast. Together they ensure images and text still communicate when visuals fail or vision varies.
    • Operable: People must be able to find and use things. 2.4.6 Headings and Labels rewards clear, descriptive headings; keyboard-friendly navigation pushes toward predictable movement through a page.
    • Understandable: Content should read cleanly and behave as expected. 3.3.1 Error Identification favors messages that say what went wrong and how to fix it—perfect for forms and flows.
    • Robust: Code should work with current and future tech. 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value is where semantic HTML shines, helping assistive technologies reliably understand controls and their states.

    You don’t need to memorize the spec. Use POUR as a short, practical lens while you write and review: if a decision helps someone perceive, operate, understand, or reliably use the page, you’re moving in the right direction—and you’ll have the checkpoints to prove it. It’s not meant to slow you down; it’s there to turn good intentions into repeatable habits that make accessible web content easier to ship.

    Ensure Your Words Work—Not Just Look Right

    Use tools to catch patterns. Use people to confirm meaning.

    Helpful tools:

    • Accessibility checkers (like WAVE or Google Lighthouse) surface common issues early.
    • Readability and contrast tools help you tune language and color choices.

    Manual checks:

    • Try a screen reader (NVDA on Windows, VoiceOver on macOS).
    • Navigate with a keyboard only. Can you reach and use every control?
    • When possible, invite feedback from people with diverse abilities.

    Make it repeatable:

    • Keep a short pre-publish checklist: heading order, meaningful links, alt text added, language attribute set, clear form labels and errors.
    • Schedule content accessibility reviews so improvements stick. This is how you keep accessible web content strong as pages, teams, and priorities change.

    Accessible Content Is Good Content—Let’s Get You There

    You don’t have to fix everything at once—just make the next thing better. A clearer title here, a stronger alt text there, a caption polished before it goes live. Small improvements stack up fast, and your audience feels the difference.

    As you roll out a new product, kick off a seasonal sale, or hit publish on a blog, take a gentle pause: Does the page read easily? Do the links explain themselves? Will someone using a screen reader get the same story as everyone else? That quiet check-in becomes a habit, and that habit becomes consistency—without slowing your team down. Over time, those small, steady choices turn into a recognizable voice: thoughtful, trustworthy, and human.

    If you’d like a partner to help keep that momentum, 216digital is here. We can share simple checklists, coach your team, and set up light-touch reviews so every release ships with confidence. Schedule an ADA briefing with us, and let’s make the next launch your clearest one yet—then repeat it with every product, sale, and post.

    Greg McNeil

    September 19, 2025
    How-to Guides
    Accessibility, Content Creators, Content Writing, How-to, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
  • ADA Guidance Documents: Now You See Them, Now You Don’t

    ADA Guidance Documents: Now You See Them, Now You Don’t

    You’re ready to make your site accessible, but the “how” still feels scattered—too many opinions, not enough plain steps. You want a path that fits busy days, real budgets, and a team that’s already stretched. Maybe you’ve got a dozen tabs open and the same question lingering: “Where do we start?”

    This guide gives you that grounding. We’ll explain why some public resources shifted (including ADA guidance documents) and what hasn’t changed about your responsibilities—then offer a calm, repeatable way to keep improving without the overwhelm.

    Behind the Headlines: What Actually Changed

    For years, website owners leaned on plain-English materials from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to turn legal text into everyday decisions. In March 2025, the DOJ withdrew a set of those materials—older how-to pages and pandemic-era Q&As. These ADA guidance documents weren’t binding law, but they acted like a friendly sidebar: “Are headings structured so screen readers can move around?” “Do forms have clear labels and announced errors?” “Do videos ship with captions by default?”

    The intention was to “streamline.” The result, for many teams, was losing that quick translation layer. The ADA didn’t change. The shortcut explanations did.

    What Are ADA Guidance Documents—and Why They Mattered Online

    Guidance sits between regulations and real life. It doesn’t create new rules; it shows what good looks like. For web teams, that practicality was gold. It helped product leads, designers, developers, and content editors turn big goals into small, repeatable habits:

    • Use semantic headings and landmarks so navigation is predictable.
    • Ensure keyboard access works everywhere—and that focus is easy to see.
    • Write meaningful alt text and descriptive link text.
    • Tie error messages to the right fields and announce them clearly.
    • Caption video and provide transcripts for audio.

    In short: fewer guesses, fewer do-overs, fewer users getting stuck.

    What This Means Day to Day

    When the handy reference disappears, hesitation sneaks in. A button ships without an accessible name. Focus gets trapped in a modal. A hero banner looks great but misses contrast by a hair. A form works with a mouse but not a keyboard. None of these are headline news alone; together they slow someone’s day—or stop it. Without familiar ADA guidance documents, teams second-guess what’s “good enough,” and releases start to feel inconsistent.

    But the baseline didn’t budge. The ADA still requires effective, equal access online. Courts still enforce it. And people still expect to complete tasks without extra hoops. The safest—and most respectful—move is to keep going, visibly and steadily.

    Why Waiting for New Guidance Is Risky

    It’s tempting to pause and hope for a new official playbook. Three reasons to keep moving instead:

    • Legal exposure. Courts across the U.S. recognize that inaccessible sites and apps can violate the ADA. That trend didn’t reverse.
    • Reputation and trust. Accessibility issues show up in reviews and social posts; quiet fixes made early rarely do.
    • Real people, real tasks. When login, checkout, or account recovery breaks for assistive-tech users, you’re not just risking a suit—you’re losing customers.

    Silence—or withdrawn ADA guidance documents—is not a safety net.

    What Web Compliance Looks Like Right Now

    Even without those quick-reference pages, your backbone is solid:

    • Standards: Treat WCAG 2.1 Level AA as today’s target and map sensible upgrades toward WCAG 2.2. WCAG gives your team a shared, testable language for “accessibility.”
    • Process: Fold accessibility into everyday work—requirements, design reviews, coding practices, content checks, QA, and release.
    • Evidence: Keep lightweight notes on what you tested, what you fixed, and what’s queued. Perfect isn’t required; active, good-faith effort matters.

    A Calm, Practical Web Plan (Built for Busy Teams)

    Think “little and often,” not “big and never.” Small habits—kept—beat big intentions that stall.

    1) A One-sentence North Star

    “Everyone should be able to find, understand, and complete key tasks on our site—without special instructions.” When trade-offs get messy, let that sentence break the tie.

    2) Make It Visible In Design

    Bake contrast rules, focus styles, and ARIA patterns into your design system. Add a five-item gate to design reviews: contrast, text scaling, focus order, error visibility, and respect for motion/animation preferences. These guardrails prevent expensive rework later.

    3) Test Every Release—Quickly And Consistently

    • Run an automated scan for the easy wins (contrast flags, missing labels).
    • Do a keyboard-only pass for navigation, focus order, skip links, menus, and modals.
    • Add a screen-reader spot check (one core task in NVDA or VoiceOver) to confirm headings, landmarks, labels, and announcements make sense.
    • Media check: captions/transcripts and no surprise auto-play.
    • Ten focused minutes can save hours of cleanup.

    4) Prioritize By User Impact

    Fix blockers first—anything that keeps someone from starting, finishing, or recovering a task (focus traps, unlabeled inputs, errors that aren’t announced, inaccessible captchas). Then clean up the friction.

    5) Write For Clarity

    Descriptive link text beats “click here.” Headings should be meaningful and in order. Error messages should be specific and tied to their fields. Plain instructions help everyone, not just screen-reader users.

    6) Train in Micro-moments

    Skip the marathon. Rotate five-minute refreshers: writing alt text, managing focus in modals, structuring headings, testing keyboard paths. Small lessons stick because people can finish them.

    7) Invite Feedback—And Close the Loop

    Publish a simple accessibility statement with a real contact path. When someone reports an issue, acknowledge it, fix it, and thank them. That response builds trust and brings problems to you early.

    8) Document Just Enough

    Keep a rolling log (tickets or a short doc) noting checks, defects, fixes, and what’s next. It’s team memory, proof of progress, and a calmer conversation if you ever need to show your work.

    Beyond Compliance: Better Web, Better Business

    Compliance is the floor. Inclusion is the opportunity. The same choices that meet WCAG also reduce support friction and lift conversions: clearer forms, reliable focus, readable text, captions that help commuters and quiet-office viewers alike, motion that respects user settings. You don’t need fresh ADA guidance documents to make that case—the impact shows up in your analytics, your reviews, and the quiet relief of users who can simply get things done.

    A Clear, Steady Path Forward

    Here’s the bottom line: the ADA still stands, and the withdrawn ADA guidance documents didn’t change what “good” looks like online. Rebuild the convenience layer yourself—standards as guardrails, small checks each release, micro-training that sticks, open feedback, and just-enough documentation.

    Start small. Keep going. Write down what works. That’s how you protect your brand, respect your users, and give your team a sustainable way to ship accessible experiences. And if a short, expert walkthrough would help you set that cadence, consider scheduling an ADA briefing with 216digital—calm, practical, and focused on your next few steps.

    Greg McNeil

    September 18, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    Accessibility, ADA, ADA Compliance, ADA Web Accessibility, WCAG, Website Accessibility
  • Consultants or Automated Platforms: What’s Right for You?

    Consultants or Automated Platforms: What’s Right for You?

    Making a website accessible isn’t always a straight path. There are sleek platforms that can scan every page in minutes, and seasoned consultants who can spot problems no algorithm would catch. Each offers value—but in very different ways.

    The challenge isn’t choosing which one is “better.” It’s knowing when to rely on quick automated checks and when your site needs the nuance only human expertise can provide. Getting that balance right can turn accessibility from a one-time project into a lasting part of how your site works.

    What Automated Platforms Do Well

    Automated accessibility platforms are essentially software tools that scan your site for compliance issues. Think of them as always-on monitors quietly running in the background. They can:

    • Scan your site regularly to flag new problems as they appear
    • Track your accessibility performance over time
    • Send alerts when something changes

    They’re fast, efficient, and cost-effective. Within minutes, they can show you where your site stands and give you a benchmark to measure progress. For many organizations, this kind of real-time insight is reassuring—especially after an initial round of accessibility improvements. Automated tools can help ensure new issues don’t creep in unnoticed.

    But while they’re powerful, they’re not perfect. automated platforms can catch many surface-level problems, like missing alt text or low-contrast color pairings. What they can’t do is understand the human experience of using your site. They don’t know if your navigation makes sense to someone using a screen reader, or whether form instructions are clear enough to avoid confusion. For those nuanced judgment calls, human expertise is essential.

    The Role of Accessibility Consultants

    Accessibility consultants offer something no machine can: experience, context, and human perspective. They don’t just tell you what’s broken—they explain why it matters and how to fix it in a way that fits your real-world workflows.

    A good consultant will:

    • Conduct thorough audits that go far beyond automated scans
    • Identify root causes, not just symptoms
    • Guide your team through remediation with practical, achievable steps
    • Provide training so you can build accessibility into your process in the future

    Consultants also bring critical legal and standards knowledge to the table. They stay on top of evolving regulations and know how guidelines like WCAG apply to your specific industry or audience. That insight can help you minimize legal risk while also creating a more welcoming experience for users with disabilities.

    In other words, they look at the big picture—something an automated tool can’t do.

    Why Consultant-Led Remediation Should Come First

    One of the most common missteps organizations make is starting with an automated platform before any human-led remediation. On paper, it seems logical: run a scan, see what’s wrong, and start fixing. But in practice, this often backfires.

    Automated scans can return long lists of issues—some legitimate, some false positives, and many without clear instructions for resolution. Without expert guidance, it’s easy to spend hours chasing the wrong problems or applying “fixes” that don’t actually help real users.

    Consultant-led remediation flips this process around for better results. Instead of reacting to a flood of automated alerts, you get a clear, prioritized plan from someone who understands both the technical and human aspects of accessibility. They focus on foundational issues first, ensuring the fixes are meaningful and sustainable.

    Once that groundwork is in place, automated platforms become incredibly useful. They act like a safety net, helping you maintain the progress you’ve made.

    Think of it like building a house: you wouldn’t install a security system before the walls are up. The system is valuable—but only once the structure is solid.

    When Automated Platforms Make Sense

    After you’ve remediated your site with the help of a consultant, automated platforms can become a valuable part of your ongoing strategy. Websites are living, changing systems. Every content update, plugin installation, or design tweak carries the potential to introduce new accessibility barriers.

    An automated platform helps you stay ahead of those problems by catching them early. They’re instrumental when:

    • You publish new content frequently
    • You’re rolling out design changes or new features
    • You want to show good-faith efforts with regular monitoring reports
    • You need an affordable way to keep watch between consultant reviews

    Used this way, automated tools act as a maintenance system. They can’t replace human testing, but they can help keep your site healthier between more in-depth reviews.

    How to Decide What’s Right for You

    Choosing between consultants and automated platforms becomes much easier once you know where you are in the accessibility journey.

    Starting from scratch? Bring in a consultant first. Their guidance will help you build a solid foundation and avoid the guesswork that leads to costly mistakes.

    Working through remediation? Stay the course with consultant-led support. Automated scans can muddy the waters here, flagging noise instead of what really matters.

    Site already in good shape? That’s the moment to add an automated platform. Let it keep an eye on new changes while consultants check in periodically for deeper reviews.

    For many organizations, the most effective approach is a blend of both—just in the correct order. Human expertise lays the groundwork. automated platforms help you maintain it.

    The Long-Term Payoff

    Web accessibility isn’t a box you check off once—it’s a long-term commitment. But it’s one that pays off in measurable ways: stronger legal compliance, broader audience reach, improved usability, and greater trust from customers and clients.

    Consultants give you the strategy, expertise, and training to start on solid ground. automated platforms give you the ongoing monitoring to protect that investment.

    When used together, they create a sustainable system. You get the precision of expert audits and the efficiency of automated monitoring. This balance reduces risk, improves user experience, and keeps you aligned with evolving standards as they change over time.

    Human First, Automation Second

    Choosing between consultants and automated platforms isn’t really about picking one over the other—it’s about knowing how they fit together. Automated tools can keep watch over the details, but it takes human expertise to build the kind of foundation that lasts.

    Start by getting that solid groundwork in place with a consultant-led audit and remediation. Once your site is truly accessible, an automated platform can help you keep it that way—quietly catching issues before they become problems.

    If you’re ready to map out what that first step should look like, schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital. It’s a chance to talk through where your site stands, what’s needed to meet compliance, and how to build a long-term plan that keeps accessibility on track.

    Greg McNeil

    September 17, 2025
    Testing & Remediation
    Accessibility, Accessibility Remediation, Accessibility testing, automated scans, automated testing, consultants, Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Remediation, Website Accessibility
  • Buttons vs Links: Who Gets the Last Click?

    Buttons vs Links: Who Gets the Last Click?

    You’ve got a component to wire up and a design that looks like… a rectangle with text in it. Classic. Do you reach for <button> or <a>? For a mouse user, either might “work.” For a keyboard user or someone on a screen reader, the wrong choice is a booby trap. Picture a user pressing Space on something that looks like a button and nothing happens, or hearing “Link” and suddenly a file gets deleted. That gap between what an element promises and what it does is where trust dies. By the time you ship this, you should be able to look at any interactive element and decide between buttons vs links without second-guessing.

    The Rule Behind Buttons vs Links

    There’s one rule worth tattooing on your coding hand:

    Links go places. Buttons do things.

    If an interaction navigates to a new location (a different route, an external page, a same-page anchor, or a file), it’s a link. If it performs an action on the current page (submits, toggles, opens, closes, mutates UI, updates data), it’s a button. Keep that mental model tight and the rest—semantics, keyboard behavior, screen reader expectations—snaps into alignment.

    Let’s make that concrete. Screen readers announce name and role. “Link” tells the user to expect navigation; “Button” says “an action is about to happen.” Keyboard support follows suit: links activate with Enter; buttons activate with Enter and Space. That difference isn’t trivia—it’s the platform contract.

    Why This Tiny Decision Matters More Than It Looks

    First, semantics affects product quality. When the role and behavior match, users trust your interface—especially users who navigate by role (“jump me to the next button”). Second, robustness. A real link with a real href will still navigate if JavaScript takes a day off. A real button with type="submit" will submit the form without your custom event handlers. Getting buttons vs links right means your UI remains reliable under bad Wi-Fi, flaky extensions, or partial loads.

    And yes, standards. Mislabeling roles or breaking keyboard activation is how you wander into WCAG failures like 2.1.1 (Keyboard) or 4.1.2 (Name, Role, Value). It’s not about box-ticking; it’s about delivering predictable, testable behavior.

    When It Should Be a Button

    If the thing does something on this page, start with <button>. That covers submitting a form, opening a modal, toggling a menu, expanding an accordion, saving a record, deleting an item, starting a fetch, pausing media—anything that changes state without changing URL.

    Here’s what not to do:

    <!-- Wrong: Looks like a link, acts like a button, breaks expectations -->
<a href="#" onclick="submitForm()">Submit</a>

    This announces as “link,” ignores the Space key unless you recreate that yourself, and fails if JavaScript is blocked. Use the element that already does the job:

    <!-- Right: Predictable, robust, testable -->
<button type="submit">Submit</button>

    Toggles are another frequent offender. If you’re opening and closing a menu, use a button and reflect state:

    <button
  type="button"
  aria-expanded="false"
  aria-controls="mainmenu"
  id="menubutton">
  Menu
</button>

<nav id="mainmenu" hidden>…</nav>

    When you flip the menu, flip aria-expanded and manage the hidden attribute. Users get the correct announcement, and you get keyboard support for free.

    A quick style note while we’re here: don’t remove the focus outline unless you replace it with something obvious. Minimalism is lovely; invisible focus isn’t.

    button:focus-visible {
  outline: 2px solid currentColor;
  outline-offset: 3px;
}

    When It Should Be a Link

    If the action navigates—new page, external site, file download, or a jump within the same page—reach for <a> with a real href. That gives you built-in affordances like “open in new tab,” a visible status bar URL, and the user’s browser history doing its thing.

    Bad pattern:

    <!-- Wrong: Navigation disguised as a button -->
<button onclick="location='/about'">Learn more</button>

    Fix it:

    <!-- Right:  It’s navigation, so it’s a link -->
<a href="/about">Learn more</a>

    A few patterns that absolutely belong to links:

    • Skip links: let keyboard users bypass repeating navigation.
     <a href="#main" class="skip-link">Skip to main content</a>
<main id="main">…</main>
    • Downloads: if you can link it, link it.
     <a href="/report.pdf" download>Download report (PDF)</a>
    • Breadcrumbs and primary nav: always links. Users expect middle-clicks and new tabs to work.

    Give the link text meaning. “Click here” ages badly outside its paragraph. “Download Q3 report (PDF)” holds up wherever a user encounters it—like a screen reader’s Links List.

    Styling Without Lying: Buttons vs Links in Disguise

    Design will ask you to make links look like buttons or vice-versa. That’s fine visually, as long as the semantics don’t lie. If it navigates, keep it an <a>—then style it like a button. If it acts, keep it a <button>—then style it to match your theme. Users might not see the markup, but assistive tech will, and so will your QA.

    A few constraints worth honoring while you polish:

    • Don’t rely on color alone to signal “this is a link.” Underlines or a small icon are your friends.
    • Keep contrast sane (think 4.5:1 for normal text). Your future self, reading in sunlight, says thanks.
    • Targets should be comfortably tappable—around 44×44 CSS pixels is a good baseline.
    • Maintain a visible focus style. If you nuke it, put a better one back.

    Testing the Decision: Buttons vs Links Under Real Inputs

    Automated tools are a fast smoke test—Lighthouse or WAVE will happily rat out missing names, broken contrast, or off-screen focus. Treat them as lint for accessibility. They won’t catch intent.

    Intent is a manual game:

    • Screen reader pass: with VoiceOver (macOS/iOS), NVDA or JAWS (Windows), confirm elements announce the correct role and name: “Button, Submit,” not “Link, Submit.”
    • Keyboard pass: tab through. Links should activate with Enter; buttons with Enter and Space. Watch focus—no disappearing acts.
    • Voice control: say “Click Submit” or “Go to Pricing,” and make sure the right control responds by name.

    If any of those feel off, they are off. Fix the semantics first; the bugs usually evaporate.

    Real-World Fixes That Come Up in Code Reviews

    Most bugs we see with buttons vs links boil down to “we styled the wrong element” or “we tried to be clever with roles.” Two quick refactors cover a lot of ground:

    Submitting with an anchor:

    <!-- Wrong -->
<a href="#" onclick="submit()">Submit</a>

<!-- Right -->
<button type="submit">Submit</button>

    Menu toggles built on anchors:

    <!-- Wrong -->
<a href="#" onclick="openMenu()">Menu</a>

<!-- Right -->
<button type="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="mainmenu">Menu</button>

    If you truly, absolutely must build a custom control—and you’ve checked that <button> won’t cut it—own the keyboard and state explicitly:

    <!--Only if native won’t work -->
<div role="button" tabindex="0" aria-pressed="false" id="play">Play</div>
<script>
const el = document.getElementById('play');
el.addEventListener('keydown', (e) => {
  if (e.key === ' ' || e.key === 'Enter') { e.preventDefault(); el.click(); }
});
el.addEventListener('click', () => {
  const next = el.getAttribute('aria-pressed') !== 'true';
  el.setAttribute('aria-pressed', String(next));
});
</script>

    That’s a lot of ceremony to re-implement what <button> just… does. Treat this as a last resort.

    A Short Checklist (Pin It Next to Your Linter)

    • Navigation? <a href="…">. Action? <button>.
    • Make the accessible name obvious: visible text or a clear aria-label.
    • Preserve expected keyboard behavior (Enter vs Enter+Space).
    • Keep focus visible and movement logical.
    • Prefer native elements; avoid role-swapping unless there’s no alternative.

    Wrapping It Up

    Interfaces are a web of tiny decisions, and this is one of the tiniest. But consistent, honest semantics make everything else easier: testing, maintenance, onboarding new devs, and—most importantly—using the thing. Treat buttons vs links as a contract. Say what the element is, and make sure it behaves that way across mouse, keyboard, screen readers, and voice.

    If you want a quick heuristic while you code: would a middle-click make sense here? If yes, it’s probably a link. Would “Click Submit” make sense to a voice user? If yes, it’s probably a button. Keep those instincts sharp and your UI will feel clean, resilient, and respectful by default.

    If your team wants a second set of eyes on patterns like these—or you need help pressure-testing components before they scale—216digital is happy to jump in. Schedule an ADA briefing and we’ll help you turn the “tiny” choices into durable, inclusive defaults.

    Greg McNeil

    September 16, 2025
    How-to Guides
    Accessibility, Accessible Buttons, Links, Web Accessibility, Web Accessible Links, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility
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