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  • How to Improve UX for Cognitive Disabilities

    Cognitive disabilities can significantly influence how people explore and interpret online information. In many cases, individuals struggle to process, remember, or make sense of digital content unless it is designed with clarity in mind. For example, someone on the autism spectrum might need a consistent and distraction-free interface, while a person with dyslexia could have trouble reading dense paragraphs of text.

    Thinking about these needs right from the start of the design process can make your website more inclusive for everyone. Improving usability for people with cognitive disabilities is not only the right thing to do—it also helps you meet legal requirements like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Plus, it can boost your business by opening your site to a broader audience, leading to higher user satisfaction and stronger customer loyalty.

    Our goal in this article is to outline practical tips that help web designers, developers, and content creators build better experiences for users with cognitive disabilities. Let’s begin by exploring the challenges these users often face.

    What Are Cognitive Disabilities, and Who Do They Affect?

    Cognitive disabilities are conditions that affect how a person processes, remembers, or understands information. They can take many different forms, from difficulties in reading and language comprehension to struggles with focus, memory, or problem-solving. Although each individual experiences these conditions differently, thoughtful design can make a significant difference in how they interact with digital platforms.

    Conditions to Keep in Mind

    • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Sensitive to sensory overload, prefers predictable layouts and calm environments.
    • Dyslexia: Trouble reading and decoding words—clear fonts and layouts help a lot.
    • ADHD: Easily distracted, especially on cluttered or busy websites.
    • Dyscalculia: Difficulty working with numbers and completing financial tasks.
    • Low Literacy: Struggles with reading complex or technical language.
    • Short-Term Memory Issues: Finds it hard to follow long, multi-step instructions.

    What Makes the Web Difficult to Use?

    People with cognitive disabilities often face challenges when using digital content. Here are a few examples:

    • Too Much Information: Crowded pages with lots of text or flashing images can feel overwhelming.
    • Hard-to-Read Language: Long words or technical terms may confuse readers.
    • Unclear Instructions: Vague directions can stop someone from completing a task.
    • Tricky Navigation: Menus that change often or aren’t labeled well can make it hard to move around.
    • Time Limits: People with cognitive disabilities may need more time to think or read.

    By understanding these barriers, we can start designing websites that work better for everyone.

    Design That Works: Simple Ways to Improve the Experience

    You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Here are some easy ways to help users with cognitive disabilities feel more supported and confident online:

    Clear and Simple Design Helps Users with Cognitive Disabilities

    • Use Descriptive Labels: Clearly label buttons, links, and forms to reduce confusion.
    • Maintain Consistency: Use consistent colors, fonts, and layouts to make your site predictable.
    • Give Control to Users: Avoid auto-playing videos or endless scrolling; let users control animations.
    • Provide Clear Instructions: Highlight required fields and clearly state what’s expected.
    • Avoid Unnecessary Time Limits: Allow users with cognitive disabilities extra time or options to extend limits.
    • Reduce Memory Demands: Enable copy-pasting for information like verification codes.
    • Include Easy Help Options: Offer visible help buttons or live chat support.

    Use Friendly and Simple Language

    • Simplify Your Language: Use short sentences and avoid technical jargon to support users with cognitive disabilities.
    • Write Short, Clear Sentences: Bullet points, short paragraphs, and lists make content easier to understand.
    • Add Visual Aids: Icons, images, and short videos can explain content better.
    • Offer Clear Error Messages: Clearly explain errors and solutions.
    • Keep Terminology Consistent: Use the same words consistently to avoid confusion.
    • Optimize Headings and Links: Use descriptive headings and link texts like “Learn more about cognitive disabilities.”

    Create a Helpful Layout

    • Break Down Tasks: Use steps and progress indicators for complex tasks.
    • Use Clear Headings: Properly tag headings to organize content logically.
    • Include Visual Cues: Highlight important information with bold text or icons, ensuring good color contrast.
    • Use White Space: Space out text and visuals to prevent cognitive overload.
    • Allow Customization: Enable users to adjust font sizes and hide unnecessary content.

    Web Accessibility Testing for Cognitive Disabilities

    Automated Tools Aren’t Enough

    Automated tools are useful for catching technical errors but fall short when it comes to evaluating cognitive accessibility. They often miss confusing content or overwhelming layouts. Still, they’re a great place to start.

    Tools like Google Lighthouse or  WAVE by WebAIM can scan your site for issues such as inconsistent headings, missing form labels, and poor color contrast—factors that contribute to cognitive overload.

    Prioritize User Testing

    Real user feedback is crucial. Invite individuals with various cognitive disabilities to test your website. Use moderated sessions or remote tools like UserZoom, PlaybookUX, or Lookback to gather feedback. Watching how users interact with your site in real time offers insights that no automated scan can provide.

    Commit to Continuous Improvement

    Accessibility is not a one-time task—it requires regular attention and maintenance. Revisit your site routinely and re-test after updates to stay aligned with evolving standards. While automated scanners help flag issues, pairing them with ongoing human review ensures a more complete understanding of your site’s accessibility.

    For long-term support, consider using an accessibility monitoring platform. A service like 216digital’s a11y.radar can help track accessibility over time, spot recurring problems, and support timely updates. Monitoring also provides valuable data to guide improvements and measure progress.

    Keep It Simple, Keep It Kind

    Designing with these challenges in mind is both a moral responsibility and a way to broaden your reach. By reducing cognitive load, simplifying language, and maintaining a well-organized layout, you can create a website that is easier to use and welcoming for people who face challenges with concentration, memory, or reading comprehension.

    Remember that web accessibility is not just a one-time fix but an ongoing journey. Through regular testing, user feedback, and updates, you can keep your site aligned with modern accessibility standards and user expectations.

    For businesses seeking expert guidance on making their digital experiences more accessible, 216digital offers tailored solutions that enhance usability and ensure compliance. By prioritizing users with cognitive disabilities, we foster an online world where everyone feels capable, respected, and included.

    Every small step you take toward making your site more inclusive counts. By learning about best practices, applying user feedback, and reaching out for expert help when needed, you can build platforms that truly welcome and support all people—including those with cognitive disabilities.

    Greg McNeil

    March 31, 2025
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility
    Accessibility, cognitive disabilities, WCAG, Website Accessibility

  • Alt Text: Why Marketing Copy Hurts Accessibility

    Have you ever hovered over an image on a webpage and noticed a small snippet of text appear? That text is called “alt text,” and it plays a powerful role in how people experience your site—especially those who rely on screen readers. Yet it often remains an afterthought. That’s a problem. When handled correctly, it not only helps visually impaired users understand your images, but it can also support your SEO goals. On the other hand, stuffing alt text with keywords or using it as hidden ad space can frustrate visitors and hurt your search rankings.

    In this article, you’ll learn why alternative text matters, how it benefits both accessibility and SEO, and how to write it in a clear, concise, and helpful way rather than a spammy or sales-focused one. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a web developer, or part of a digital marketing team, these principles will help you craft alt text that meets user needs without alienating search engines—or your audience.

    Why Alt Text Matters

    Imagine you’re shopping for a laptop case online, and you can’t see the product images. Screen reader users rely on alt text to “hear” what’s happening in each image, from color to texture. If it is nothing more than “Get the best laptop case here,” that user is left with zero details about the product. They might simply leave for a site that offers the information they need. When you write alt text that clearly states “Black leather laptop case with a zipper and handle,” you empower all customers, including those with visual impairments, to make informed decisions.

    SEO Wins

    Search engines analyze alt text to better understand what each image represents. This can give your site a leg up in search rankings for relevant queries. However, algorithms have grown smart enough to recognize keyword-stuffed or spammy text. If your alt text reads like a desperate attempt to shoehorn “laptop case” 10 times, you might do more harm than good. Concise, descriptive text helps Google and other search engines match your site with the people who genuinely want to find your products.

    Common Alt Text Pitfalls

    Keyword Overuse

    It can be tempting to sneak in extra keywords to boost SEO. But endless repetition—like “car seat protector, seat protector for cars, vinyl seat protector”—makes the text clunky and unhelpful. Search algorithms can detect spammy patterns, and users who rely on screen readers will find the repetition tedious or confusing.

    Marketing Copy Disguised as Descriptions

    Some site owners treat alt text fields as free ad space, writing something like:

    “Our top-selling leather laptop case, now 20% off! Don’t miss this exclusive deal—buy today!“

    While it may read like a catchy tagline, it doesn’t describe the image. A screen reader user learns nothing about color, texture, or design. Plus, Google doesn’t benefit from vague promotional language and might even flag your page as low-quality.

    Empty or Missing Alt Text

    Perhaps the biggest mistake is neglecting alt text entirely. In that case, a screen reader user hears nothing—just empty space—making it impossible to engage with or understand the image. If a product image is critical to your sales, that’s a huge missed opportunity.

    Repeating “Image of”

    Screen readers already announce that an element is an image. If your alt text says “Image of a black laptop case,” it’s redundant. Jump straight to the essential details: “Black leather laptop case with a zipper and handle.”

    Writing Alt Text the Right Way

    Focus on Real Descriptions

    The primary function of alt text is to describe the image so someone can visualize it through words. For a black vinyl car seat protector, a simple yet complete phrase might be:

    “Black vinyl seat protector on the driver’s seat with a zippered pocket.”

    This gives useful details while remaining concise—no filler like “best seat protector,” no repeated keywords, and no promotional language.

    Keep It Concise Yet Informative

    Alt text generally doesn’t need to be more than one or two short sentences. Offer key details without overwhelming the user. For a laptop case, mentioning the color, material, and whether it has a handle or zipper is usually enough. Screen reader users just need the essentials to identify or comprehend the image.

    Context Is Important

    If the image has a functional role—like a button or a link—clarify that. For instance, if users click an image to add a product to their cart:

    “Add to cart button for black vinyl seat protector”

    This way, a screen reader announces the function, not just the object in the image.

    Skip Redundant Phrases

    Screen readers typically announce that an element is an image, so writing “Image of” or “Graphic showing” is unnecessary. Go straight into the description. It keeps your text short and saves valuable time for the user.

    The Real-World Impact of Bad Alt Text

    Frustrating Users

    When alt text is stuffed with marketing copy or random keywords, it becomes meaningless for users with visual impairments. They hear a repetitive sales pitch instead of valuable information. This frustration often leads them to abandon your site, which hurts your brand image—and your bottom line.

    Possible Legal Ramifications

    In an era of heightened focus on digital accessibility, businesses risk legal consequences by not meeting basic standards. Some organizations have faced lawsuits for failing to include alt text. While legal outcomes vary by location and industry, it’s best to be proactive.

    Lower Search Engine Rankings

    Search engines want to display content that offers value. If your alt text is obviously spammy or unhelpful, algorithms may penalize your pages or push them further down the results. A high bounce rate—where users leave quickly due to poor user experience—also signals to Google that your site isn’t meeting visitor needs.

    Practical Steps to Improve Your Alt Text

    Conduct an Alt Text Audit

    Start by reviewing your site for missing or poor-quality alt text. Tools like the WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool highlight potential issues. Many SEO platforms also include site audits that can reveal duplicated alternative text text or keyword stuffing.

    Leverage AI Judiciously

    AI can be a lifesaver if you have thousands of product images. Tools like Google Vision offer automated descriptions, but they’re not always accurate. AI might misidentify colors or add superfluous words, so always review automatically generated alt text for accuracy and clarity.

    Follow Recognized Guidelines

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide standardized advice on writing effective alternative. Aim to:

    • Describe the image’s important details.
    • Keep it concise.
    • Skip filler words like “picture of.”
    • Use empty alt text (alt=" ") for purely decorative images that don’t add information.

    Test with Real Users

    Whenever possible, invite screen reader users to test your site. No automated tool can replace real feedback from people who use assistive technology daily. They’ll quickly tell you if your alt text is too vague, too repetitive, or missing crucial details. Their firsthand insights can highlight any confusion or gaps.

    Best Practices at a Glance

    • Prioritize clarity: Let users know exactly what they’re “seeing” through your words.
    • Stick to relevant details: Think color, material, function, or context—not ad slogans.
    • Limit keywords: A single, well-placed keyword can assist SEO. Overuse can sabotage it.
    • Adapt to the image: Product angles differ, so describe each image’s unique perspective.
    • Check surrounding text: If “black laptop case” appears in the product name next to the image, you may not need to repeat it in the alt text.

    Conclusion

    In today’s competitive online environment, you can’t afford to overlook the importance of alt text. A single line of well-chosen words can be the difference between an inclusive, intuitive user experience and a site that feels incomplete to a significant segment of your audience. By writing concise, descriptive alt text—free from keyword stuffing and promotional fluff—you create a more welcoming website and help search engines better understand your content.

    If you’re ready to enhance your site’s accessibility while protecting its SEO standing, consider partnering with 216digital. We’ll help you fine-tune your alt text (and the rest of your site) so that every visitor, whether they see your images or hear them described, gets the information they need. Embracing accessibility and clarity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also a savvy move for your online presence.

    Greg McNeil

    March 28, 2025
    The Benefits of Web Accessibility
    Accessibility, Alt text, How-to, Image Alt Text, Marketing, SEO, WCAG, Website Accessibility

  • Accordion Accessibility: Common Issues & Fixes

    Organizing content effectively on the web is about more than just layout—it’s about usability and inclusivity. When users are forced to scroll through long pages of uninterrupted text, the experience becomes inefficient and frustrating.

    Enter accordion components: interactive UI elements that allow content sections to be expanded or collapsed. When implemented correctly, accordion accessibility streamlines navigation and improves content organization. However, if accessibility is overlooked, these helpful components can quickly become barriers.

    This guide explores how to design accessible accordion components that enhance the user experience and meet all users’ needs—regardless of their abilities. We’ll cover best practices for structure, semantics, ARIA attributes, keyboard support, and implementation strategies to help you build inclusive, user-friendly interfaces.

    Why Accordion Accessibility Matters

    Accordions are essential: they reduce visual clutter and allow users to interact with content on their terms. Whether it’s an FAQ page, a product feature breakdown, or technical documentation, accordions help surface only the content that matters at the moment.

    However, it’s crucial to remember that not all users interact with content similarly. Screen reader users, keyboard-only users, and others with varying access needs must be able to operate accordions just as easily as those using a mouse or touchscreen. Accessible design isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s an essential component of responsible development.

    The Building Blocks of an Accordion Accessibility-Friendly Component

    1. Structure: Header and Panel

    Every accordion should be composed of two core parts:

    Header (Trigger)

    A clickable element (typically a <button>) that users activate to show or hide content. It usually includes a descriptive label and may feature visual indicators like arrows or plus/minus icons.

    Panel (Content)

    The content is associated with the header. It should be hidden from view and keyboard focus when collapsed and fully accessible when expanded.

    For effective accordion accessibility, each header must be clearly linked to its corresponding panel—visually for sighted users and programmatically for assistive technologies.

    2. Keyboard Navigation

    One of the most common accessibility pitfalls with accordion components is insufficient keyboard support. If users can’t operate your interface without a mouse, it’s not accessible.

    Your accordion must support the following interactions:

    • Tab / Shift + Tab: Move between focusable elements, including accordion headers.
    • Enter or Space: Expand or collapse the currently focused header.
    • Arrow Up / Arrow Down: Navigate between accordion headers.
    • Home / End: Jump to the first or last header within the accordion group.

    By supporting these interactions, you ensure that keyboard users have the same level of control as mouse users.

    3. Use Semantic HTML

    Semantic HTML provides the backbone of accessibility. It ensures assistive technologies can understand the structure and function of your content without additional cues.

    Best Practices for Accordion Accessibility

    • Use heading elements (<h3>, <h4>, etc.) to maintain the document outline.
    • Place a <button> inside the heading to toggle visibility.
    • Wrap panel content in a <div> that follows its associated button.

    Why <button> and not <div> or <a>?

    Buttons are keyboard-focusable by default, accessible to screen readers, and support interactions like Enter and Space. Enter and Space. If you rely on <div> or <a> for toggling, you’ll need extra code to achieve the same level of accordion accessibility.

    4. Implementing ARIA Attributes

    ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes enhance accessibility when native HTML doesn’t fully express an element’s role or state. In custom accordions, these attributes help communicate dynamic behavior to assistive technologies.

    ARIA Attributes for Accordion Accessibility

    • aria-expanded: Indicates the panel’s expanded (true) or collapsed (false) state. Applied to the button.
    • aria-controls: Points to the id of the panel controlled by the button.
    • aria-labelledby: Applied to the panel, this links it back to its header button for context.
    • aria-hidden:Use decorative icons or non-informative content to prevent screen readers from announcing them.

    These attributes ensure that screen reader users receive clear, relevant information about the accordion’s behavior and structure.

    Implementation Examples

    Option 1: Native HTML with <details> and <summary>

    For a semantic-first approach, HTML offers a native accordion-like behavior:

    <details>
  <summary>Shipping Information</summary>
  <div>
    <p>We offer free shipping on orders over $50...</p>
  </div>
</details>

    Pros

    • Minimal code
    • Built-in keyboard support
    • Accessible by default in modern browsers

    Cons

    • Styling can be limited
    • Inconsistent support across all assistive technologies

    This is a great lightweight option for simple use cases but may fall short in more complex interfaces.

    Option 2: Custom JavaScript Accordion with ARIA

    If you need more control, a custom accordion allows full styling and behavior management—just be sure to handle accordion accessibility properly.

    HTML Structure

    <h3>
  <button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="panel1" id="accordion1">
    Shipping Info
  </button>
</h3>
<div id="panel1" role="region" aria-labelledby="accordion1" hidden>
  <p>We offer free shipping on orders over $50...</p>
</div>

    JavaScript snippet

    const buttons = document.querySelectorAll('button[aria-expanded]'); buttons.forEach((button) => { const toggleAccordion = () => { const expanded = button.getAttribute('aria-expanded') === 'true'; button.setAttribute('aria-expanded', String(!expanded)); const panel = document.getElementById(button.getAttribute('aria-controls')); panel.hidden = expanded; }; button.addEventListener('click', toggleAccordion); button.addEventListener('keydown', (event) => { if (event.key === 'Enter') { toggleAccordion(); } }); });

    This implementation not only handles basic interaction but also improves navigation for keyboard users. Combined with semantic structure and ARIA, it creates a robust and inclusive experience.

    Best Practices to Keep in Mind

    • Use Clear Labels: Avoid generic labels like “Section 1.” Use descriptive headers that make sense out of context.
    • Provide Visual Cues: Arrows or plus/minus icons help users understand that a section is expandable. Consider animations that reinforce open/close behavior.
    • Maintain Focus Indicators: Never remove focus outlines unless you’re replacing them with custom indicators that are just as visible.
    • Be Selective with Accordions: Don’t hide critical content. It should be visible by default if the information is essential (e.g., pricing, legal disclaimers).

    Testing Accessibility

    Even well-intended implementations can miss the mark without testing. Include accessibility testing as part of your development workflow:

    • Keyboard-Only Testing: Navigate the accordion entirely by keyboard.
    • Screen Reader Testing: Use tools like NVDA, JAWS, or VoiceOver to check for correct announcements.
    • Automated Tools: Run your component through tools like WAVE, or Lighthouse to identify missing attributes or ARIA misuse.
    • Manual Code Review: Double-check that all attributes, labels, and roles are properly implemented.

    Final Thoughts

    Accessible accordions do more than organize content—they foster a better, more inclusive web. By prioritizing structure, semantics, ARIA roles, and thoughtful interaction design, you empower all users to engage with your content meaningfully.

    If you’re unsure where to start or want to ensure your components meet accessibility standards, consider working with an experienced accessibility partner like 216digital.  We specialize in helping teams build digital experiences that work for everyone—by default, and with accordion accessibility baked in.

    Greg McNeil

    March 27, 2025
    How-to Guides
    Accessibility, accordion, accordion accessibility, How-to, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility

  • How to Make Your Marketing More Accessible

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

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

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

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

    Why Accessibility Matters in Marketing

    Grow Your Audience—Organically

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

    Improve Your Brand’s Credibility

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

    Get a Natural SEO Boost

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

    Stay Compliant and Reduce Risk

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

    Website Accessibility Tips

    Make Your Content Easy to Navigate

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

    Always Add Alt Text to Images

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

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

    Use Clear Language and Short Sentences

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

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

    Check Keyboard Navigation and Focus Indicators

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

    Be Careful With Animated Content

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

    Social Media Accessibility Best Practices

    Alt Text Isn’t Just for Websites

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

    Format Hashtags Clearly

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

    Limit Emoji Usage

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

    Tag Your Links with Care

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

    Multimedia Accessibility Strategies

    Use Captions and Transcripts

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

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

    Add Audio Descriptions

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

    Making Accessibility a Habit

    Make Accessibility Part of Your Workflow

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

    Regularly Improve

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

    Closing the Conversion Gap

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

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

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

    Greg McNeil

    March 24, 2025
    How-to Guides, The Benefits of Web Accessibility, Web Accessibility Training
    Accessibility, Digital Marketing, Marketing, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility

  • How to Make Websites Accessible for Cognitive Disabilities

    When was the last time you visited a website and ended up completely confused? Maybe it had flashing ads, a messy layout, or awkwardly placed menus. Now, imagine dealing with this sort of frustration on almost every site you visit—because your brain processes information a bit differently. Unfortunately, that’s the daily experience for many individuals. With 13.9 percent of U.S. adults having some sort of cognitive disability, this leaves millions of Americans unable to navigate the web.

    In this article, we’ll explore how cognitive disabilities affect web usage, the challenges they pose, and how you can adjust your design to be more welcoming. The good news is that creating a more inclusive website doesn’t have to be complicated. Small tweaks, like adding clear labels or allowing extra time to complete tasks, can have a massive impact. Let’s dive in!

    Understanding Cognitive Disabilities

    Cognitive disabilities influence how someone interprets and processes information. They can affect attention span, memory, comprehension, problem-solving skills, or social interactions. The impact varies from person to person, but there are shared themes. Some individuals may need larger text and simpler language, while others might require more time or predictable page layouts. Although these needs may differ, the core principle remains the same: clarity is key.

    Generally, cognitive disabilities can be divided into two main groups:

    • Functional Cognitive Disabilities: These conditions might be less severe but can still disrupt daily routines. Examples include learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, or dyscalculia.
    • Clinical Cognitive Disabilities: These tend to be more profound or long-term, such as autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, Down syndrome, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. In all cases, designing websites with an emphasis on simplicity, structure, and user-friendly navigation goes a long way.

    Common Types of Cognitive Disabilities and Their Effects

    Each type of cognitive disability can pose different obstacles online. Here are a few examples:

    • Dyslexia: Reading difficulties, especially with dense paragraphs.
    • ADHD: Hard time focusing on cluttered or rapidly changing pages.
    • Dyscalculia: Challenges with numeric or math-heavy tasks, such as checkout forms.
    • Auditory Processing Disorder: Struggles with audio content lacking captions.
    • Visual Processing Disorder: Difficulty interpreting complex visuals or layouts.
    • Memory Impairments: Problems recalling steps in sequences, like multi-page forms.
    • Autism Spectrum Disorder: Sensory overload triggered by certain fonts, colors, or animations.

    How These Disabilities Affect Web Usage

    It’s important to remember that cognitive disabilities manifest uniquely in each person. Designing with clarity and adaptability ensures a broader audience can engage more comfortably. Ordinary tasks such as ordering groceries or completing a job application become far more accessible when pages are uncluttered and navigation is logical. To achieve this, adopting user-centered methods and testing your designs can reveal hidden issues.

    Key Challenges for Cognitive Accessibility

    Overwhelming Cognitive Load

    We’ve all seen websites that feel like a newspaper glued onto your screen—crammed text, ads, sidebars, and banners everywhere you look. Users with cognitive disabilities often struggle to pick out the key information on such pages. Even something as simple as bulleted lists or subheadings can help prevent that sense of overload.

    Navigation Barriers

    If you’ve ever clicked a menu and had zero idea where to go next, you know how frustrating poor navigation can be. Sites with unclear or hidden menus, inconsistent layouts, and random page names create extra hurdles for people with cognitive disabilities. Offering a straightforward menu, a search bar, and a site map will help all users feel in control.

    Complex Forms and Inputs

    Nobody likes forms that ask too many questions—but for people with cognitive disabilities, it’s even tougher. Vague field labels, surprise questions, and steps that rely on memory can cause confusion and mistakes. Straightforward instructions and friendly error messages can turn a chore into a breeze.

    Inconsistent or Distracting Design Elements

    Blinking ads, auto-refreshing slideshows, and colors that clash might grab attention, but they can also distract or confuse someone who’s trying hard to focus. Inconsistent layouts—like having the search bar in a different place on each page—can also leave users guessing. Keeping things steady and predictable is a win for all.

    Time-Sensitive Tasks

    You’re halfway through a form, trying to enter your address, and suddenly, you get logged out. Then you lose everything you typed. That’s annoying for anyone, but imagine if it happens often because you need more time to read or type. Flexible time limits and a warning before logging out can ease this pressure and show respect for different reading or typing speeds.

    WCAG Guidelines for Cognitive Accessibility

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were created to help make the internet more usable for everyone—including people with disabilities. Developed by the W3C, these guidelines lay out best practices for building websites that are easier to navigate, read, and interact with. While WCAG covers a wide range of needs, it’s especially helpful when it comes to supporting people with cognitive disabilities.

    For individuals who struggle with memory, attention, problem-solving, or language processing, small design choices can make a big difference. WCAG 2.2 includes updates that directly address those needs—like giving users more time to finish tasks, making instructions clearer, and cutting down on distractions that might make it hard to focus.

    Think of WCAG as a toolkit that helps you build a site that’s more inclusive and user-friendly.

    Tried-and-True Practices for Cognitive Accessibility

    Clear, Concise Content

    • Straightforward Language: Write like you’re speaking to a friend while still being professional—jargon should be explained if it’s absolutely necessary.
    • Short Paragraphs and Lists: Make it easy to skim by breaking text into sections. Bullet points and short paragraphs help focus attention.
    • Thoughtful Headings: Headings provide a quick roadmap of the page. They’re also handy for anyone using a screen reader to jump between sections.
    • Text Alternatives: Use alt text for images and captions for video so people who struggle with visual or auditory processing can still follow along.

    Straightforward Navigation

    • Consistency: Keep your menus, logos, and search bar in the same spots on every page. This predictability helps people know exactly where to look.
    • Descriptive Labels: Instead of a generic “Learn More,” say something like “View Our Product Line.” Users shouldn’t have to guess where a link will take them.
    • Avoid Sudden Refreshes: If the page absolutely must reload or update automatically, let the user know beforehand—or give them control.

    Forms That Don’t Confuse

    • Explain Each Step: If the form is long or complex, provide a brief overview of why you need this info and how to fill it out.
    • Group Fields Logically: Put personal info in one section, payment details in another, and label each field clearly.
    • Useful Error Messages: “Invalid entry” doesn’t really help. “Please enter a valid email address” is much clearer.
    • Password Manager Support: Some people can’t remember lots of usernames and passwords—avoid any code that interferes with auto-filled credentials.

    Reducing Distractions

    • Clean Layouts: Keep a consistent, minimal approach to layout, with important info easy to find.
    • Minimal Animations: Flashing images or pop-up ads can be overwhelming, especially for people with ADHD or autism. If animation is crucial, give users a way to pause or hide it.
    • Customization Options: If possible, let visitors adjust text size, contrast, or spacing so they can create a more comfortable reading environment.

    Tackling Time Constraints

    • Extend Session Times: If your site automatically logs people out, give them a warning and a way to keep going.
    • Auto-Save: Nothing is more discouraging than losing everything after spending 15 minutes filling out a form. An auto-save feature can be a lifesaver.
    • Flexible Deadlines: If a task or process has a time requirement, consider allowing extra time or offering a simple way to request it.

    Helping with Memory and Task Completion

    • Familiar Icons: A magnifying glass for search is universally recognized—using something obscure forces a visitor to learn new symbols.
    • Progress Bars: For multi-step tasks, let users see how far they’ve come and how much is left. This can ease anxiety and keep them moving forward.
    • Save Preferences: Whether it’s language settings or preferred font sizes, remember these choices so returning visitors don’t have to redo them.

    Testing and Ongoing Refinements

    • Automatic Tools: Programs like Google Lighthouse or WAVE can highlight accessibility problems, but they’re no substitute for real testing.
    • Manual Checks: Try your site with screen readers or text-to-speech software. It might reveal a few blind spots.
    • Ask Real Users: Feedback from people who live with cognitive disabilities is invaluable. They’ll notice details or problems that might slip by everyone else.
    • Regular Updates: Technology and standards keep evolving. Plan a routine review of your site’s accessibility features, so you stay ahead of any issues.

    Making Web Accessibility a Priority

    Making a website more accessible for people with cognitive disabilities doesn’t require a complete overhaul—it starts with awareness and intentional design. When you prioritize clarity, predictability, and flexibility, you’re not just meeting the needs of some users; you’re improving usability for everyone who visits your site. Every adjustment, from a well-placed heading to a thoughtful timeout warning, can make a meaningful difference.

    If you’re unsure where to start or how to move forward, 216digital is here to help. We work with businesses of all sizes to identify gaps, implement best practices, and build experiences that are truly usable—by everyone. Accessibility isn’t a one-time fix, it’s an ongoing commitment—and we’re ready to walk that path with you.

    Greg McNeil

    March 20, 2025
    WCAG Compliance
    Accessibility, cognitive disabilities, WCAG, WCAG Compliance, WCAG conformance, Website Accessibility

  • Will the EAA Really Affect U.S. Businesses?

    If you’re a U.S.-based e-commerce entrepreneur, website owner, or digital compliance professional, you’ve probably heard of the European Accessibility Act (EAA). This legislation aims to standardize accessibility requirements across the European Union (EU), impacting everything from e-commerce and banking to transportation. At first glance, it may seem like yet another global regulation lurking on the horizon. But here’s the good news: for most U.S. businesses, the EAA is far less of a legal threat than you might think.

    While there’s been chatter that EAA-related fines could reach American shores, practical realities—like jurisdiction limits and the complexities of cross-border enforcement—mean it’s unlikely to affect you unless you have a substantial European footprint. Still, that doesn’t mean you should shrug off accessibility. Stateside, legal obligations are mounting quickly, and both federal and state-level regulations on web accessibility are gaining traction. In fact, ADA lawsuits connected to digital accessibility are soaring, putting genuine pressure on U.S. businesses to ensure inclusivity.

    In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why the EAA probably won’t keep you up at night if you’re mostly serving U.S. customers. We’ll also explore why your real focus should stay on meeting domestic accessibility requirements—and how investing in accessibility can not only protect you from legal headaches but also help you reach new customers.

    The EAA and Its Scope

    At its core, the EAA is designed to make sure products and services in the EU are accessible to people with disabilities. Think of it as a catch-all that covers a wide range of areas, including:

    • Websites and Mobile Apps: E-commerce sites and other digital platforms should be compatible with assistive technologies like screen readers, offering clear, user-friendly layouts.
    • Financial Services: Online banking platforms must be workable for people with visual, mobility, or other impairments.
    • Transportation Services: Booking and ticketing systems should be built with inclusive design principles in mind.

    Although these rules zero in on European markets, any company that aggressively sells to EU residents might need to comply. The bottom line: if you’re physically located in the EU or do a significant amount of business there, you’re on the EAA’s radar. But if you’re a small U.S. boutique that only very occasionally ships overseas, the likelihood of direct EAA enforcement is pretty slim.

    Application to U.S. Businesses

    Let’s say you’re a U.S.-based e-commerce owner who sells mostly to Americans. The odds are that you won’t need to stress about the EAA in a strict sense. If 95% of your customers are stateside, EU regulators won’t have much reason to come knocking. On the other hand, if you’ve set up localized sites for different European countries, handle EU shipping logistics, or run targeted campaigns in Europe, then yes, the EAA becomes more relevant.

    In short, the EAA matters most to companies that are genuinely active in Europe. If that’s not you, you can breathe a little easier—but remember that web accessibility is still a big deal in the U.S.

    The Limited Reach of EAA Enforcement in the U.S.

    Cross-Border E-Commerce Engagement

    One of the main reasons the EAA might not impact smaller American businesses is the nature of cross-border e-commerce itself. While online selling is global in principle, a lot of U.S. companies still cater primarily to domestic buyers. In fact, about 25% of North American e-commerce is cross-border; that leaves 75% as local, and a stronger domestic focus typically means lower risk of EU regulatory scrutiny.

    If you’re not set up for international shipping or don’t localize your site for EU customers, you’re even less likely to get attention from European authorities. An occasional European sale here or there usually won’t land you under the EAA umbrella.

    Challenges in International Enforcement

    The EU can’t just wave a wand to enforce its laws on businesses located in other countries; it needs legal jurisdiction and international cooperation. Historically, European regulators tend to target bigger players—those with a notable EU presence and significant resources—rather than chasing smaller American businesses that ship an item or two overseas.

    Potential Business Responses

    Some companies respond to foreign regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by blocking traffic from EU regions altogether. While that certainly sidesteps EAA compliance, it also shuts the door on potential European customers. Another approach is adopting accessibility best practices proactively. Even if you never hear from EU regulators, making your site inclusive can keep you safe from domestic lawsuits and win you new fans at home and abroad.

    Why EAA Compliance May Not Be a Top Priority for U.S. Regulators

    GDPR Enforcement as a Precedent

    When the GDPR went live in 2018, a lot of U.S. businesses scrambled to post cookie consent banners or even block European visitors. Over time, though, we saw that heavy fines usually targeted giants like Meta and Google—companies that clearly operate in the EU. Most smaller U.S. entities, especially those without a European presence, didn’t face the same scrutiny.

    The EAA will follow a similar pattern. Regulators will focus first on the big fish: major corporations that do a lot of business in Europe. If you’re not among them, your risk goes down considerably.

    Focus on EU-Based Entities

    Enforcement agencies work most effectively with entities physically or legally based in the EU. If you’re a mid-size American seller without any EU office or significant European operations, you’re unlikely to draw regulator attention. This doesn’t mean zero risk—it just means the probability is low compared to the very real possibility of an ADA lawsuit in the U.S.

    The Real Risk: U.S. Web Accessibility Laws & State-Level Legislation

    ADA and Web Accessibility Lawsuits

    While the EAA might sound intimidating, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the real concern for many U.S. businesses. In 2023 alone, over 4,600 ADA-related web accessibility lawsuits were filed in the U.S., most notably in states such as New York, Florida, and California. 

    These lawsuits often ask questions like:

    • Is your website easily navigable with a screen reader?
    • Do you have captions for your videos?
    • Can users complete a purchase using only a keyboard?

    Lacking these features can land you in hot water, resulting in demand letters, lawsuits, and potentially hefty legal costs. Even if you avoid a lawsuit, states like California and New York are increasingly pushing for stricter rules around digital accessibility. If you have customers in these states, you can’t afford to ignore these developments.

    The Imperative of Web Accessibility

    Accessibility is more than a legal shield—it’s also good business. Almost one in four adults in the U.S. lives with some form of disability, which means making your website inclusive can significantly broaden your audience. On top of that, accessible sites often provide a smoother overall user experience and align well with search engine optimization (SEO) best practices.

    Focus on What Really Matters for U.S. Businesses

    The EAA is critical for businesses with a genuine stake in EU markets, but if your customer base is mostly American, the EAA probably won’t become your biggest legal headache anytime soon. EU regulators usually set their sights on larger players with a visible European footprint, so a small U.S. business with minimal European sales isn’t high on their list.

    Prioritizing Domestic Compliance

    Instead of stressing over the EAA, channel your energy into meeting domestic accessibility standards. ADA lawsuits and state-level rules in the U.S. are ramping up, and that’s where your real vulnerability lies. By aligning with ADA guidelines and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), you minimize the risk of legal trouble here at home.

    Benefits of Accessibility

    Beyond reducing legal risks, accessibility has plenty of other perks:

    • Better User Experience: A clean, inclusive layout helps everyone.
    • Bigger Audience: You’ll welcome people with disabilities, which is a sizable market segment.
    • Stronger Brand Reputation: Consumers appreciate businesses that take inclusivity seriously.
    • SEO Boost: Search engines favor structured, easy-to-navigate websites.

    Protect Your Business Where It Counts Most

    It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by headlines about the EAA and worry that European regulators might suddenly target American businesses. However, realistically, their enforcement focus is primarily on companies with strong ties to the EU. If you’re mostly selling to an American audience, the European Accessibility Act shouldn’t keep you up at night.

    Instead, put your energy where it matters most—your website’s domestic accessibility. ADA compliance is not just about avoiding lawsuits; it’s an opportunity to connect with a broader audience and build a more inclusive, trustworthy brand.

    If you’re unsure where to start or want to ensure your business is fully protected and accessible, reach out to our team at 216digital. Our experts will help you identify your accessibility gaps, guide you through compliance, and ensure your site delivers an inclusive experience for everyone.

    Don’t wait until accessibility becomes an emergency—contact 216digital today and get ahead of the curve.

    Greg McNeil

    March 12, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    Accessibility, accessibility laws, EAA, European Accessibility Act, Legal compliance, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility

  • How to Make Mega Menus More Accessible

    A mega menu is typically a large, two-dimensional panel that appears when a user interacts with a top-level navigation item. It’s often used by eCommerce stores or websites with many different product categories or content sections. Because it can display a wide variety of links in a single view, a mega menu helps visitors explore your site quickly—no endless drilling down into submenus.

    But here’s the catch: while mega menus make navigation simpler for many users, they can also create barriers for some. For example, hover-triggered mega menus might be useless for someone relying on a keyboard. Or, if the menu isn’t properly labeled, a screen reader user might get stuck in a confusing loop of unlabeled links.

    These barriers matter because web accessibility is not just about following rules—it’s about ensuring everyone can use your site. If you leave people out, you risk alienating customers who want to purchase your products or read your content. So, let’s dive into some common accessibility issues and how to fix them.

    Overcoming Common Accessibility Challenges

    Improving Hover Functionality

    Most mega menus open when you hover your mouse over the navigation item. However, hover-based menus can cause big problems for keyboard users (or anyone who can’t use a mouse).

    • Inaccessible for Keyboard Users: People who navigate with the keyboard use the Tab key to move from link to link. If a menu only opens on hover, these users can’t open the submenu.
    • Overly Sensitive Interactions: Sometimes, mega menus can pop open or shut at the slightest movement of your mouse. This makes them frustrating to use for everyone.
    • The “Diagonal Problem”: If you move the mouse at an angle, you can sometimes trigger submenus you didn’t intend to open.

    Best Practice: Use a click to open the submenus instead of relying on hover. This way, both mouse and keyboard users have a more predictable experience. A click is a clearer signal of intention, reducing accidental openings or closings.

    Making Menus Easy to Close

    A menu that’s hard to dismiss can trap users, especially if it covers a large portion of the screen. On the other hand, a menu that closes too quickly can frustrate users who accidentally hover away for a split second.

    Solutions:

    1. Escape Key Support: Let users close the menu by pressing the Escape key. This is a standard expectation in many UI patterns and helps keyboard users exit quickly.
    2. Delayed Closing: If you decide to keep some hover functionality, add a slight delay before the submenu disappears. This grace period prevents the menu from closing by mistake if a user’s pointer drifts outside the panel for a moment.

    Enhancing Keyboard Accessibility

    Logical Keyboard Navigation

    Keyboard navigation is a critical part of web accessibility. You want the user’s Tab key presses to move in a clear, intuitive order:

    1. First Tab: Highlight the first top-level navigation item.
    2. Enter Key: If the focused top-level item has a submenu, pressing Enter opens that submenu. Pressing Enter again on any submenu item activates the link.
    3. Tab Within a Submenu: Moves focus to the next item in the submenu.
    4. Escape Key: Closes the submenu and returns focus to the parent menu item.
    5. Shift + Tab: Moves backward through the items, letting users navigate in reverse.

    This logical flow ensures that people who rely on the keyboard won’t get lost or stuck.

    Providing Clear Focus Indicators

    When users press Tab, they should be able to see exactly which menu item is highlighted. This means using visible focus indicators:

    • A change in background color, an underline, or a bold outline helps users quickly spot the focused item.
    • Make sure the color contrast meets accessibility guidelines. Avoid using color alone—some users might not see color differences clearly. An underline or border is a more reliable visual cue.

    Optimizing Screen Reader Support with ARIA

    Choosing the Right ARIA Roles

    Using role= "menu" for all navigation is a common mistake introduced in development. This role should only be used if your navigation behaves like a desktop application menu. For most website mega menus, it’s better to use simpler roles.

    Recommended roles and attributes:

    • role= "navigation": Declares that this section is a navigation landmark, which helps screen reader users quickly find or skip it.
    • role= "menuitem": If you have interactive items that function like menu items (though for basic links, standard <a> elements might be enough).
    • aria-haspopup= "true": Indicates that a button or link has a submenu.
    • aria-expanded= "false": Tells screen readers if a section is closed. Switch it to true when the submenu opens.

    Labeling and Describing Elements Properly

    Screen readers need helpful labels to convey what the link or button does. If your button opens a “Products” submenu, label it clearly:

    • Use aria-label= "Products Menu" or aria-labelledby=" [ID_of_label]" to associate a descriptive label with the menu.
    • Provide descriptive link text. Instead of “Click here,” use something like “View our latest products.” This helps all users know exactly where the link leads.

    Implementing Accessible Mega Menus with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

    Using Semantic HTML for Proper Structure

    Below is a simple example showing how to structure an accessible mega menu:

    <nav aria-label= "Main Menu">
  <ul>
    <li><a href="#">Home</a></li>
    <li>
      <button aria-expanded="false" aria-haspopup="true">Products</button>
      <ul>
        <li><a href="#">Product 1</a></li>
        <li><a href="#">Product 2</a></li>
      </ul>
    </li>
  </ul>
</nav>

    Here’s why this works:

    • <nav aria-label= "Main Menu">: The <nav> element is a semantic way to mark the navigation area. The aria-label helps screen readers identify it.
    • <button> vs. <a>: Using a button for expandable menus is more accessible because it’s an interactive element by default and can easily handle the aria-expanded state.
    • aria-expanded: Indicates whether the submenu is open or closed (true or false).

    Styling Menus for Visibility & Interaction

    Accessible styling goes beyond making things “look nice.” It ensures that focus states are clear. For instance:

    nav button:focus {
  outline: 2px solid #005ea2;
  background-color: #f1f1f1;
}
nav ul ul {
  display: none;
}
nav button[aria-expanded="true"] + ul {
  display: block;
}
    • The outline property and background-color change help users see the focused button.
    • By default, submenus are hidden (display: none).
    • When aria-expanded= "true", the submenu appears (display: block).

    Enhancing Usability with JavaScript

    A small amount of JavaScript can make your menus more accessible. Here’s how you can toggle the aria-expanded attribute:

    document.querySelectorAll('nav button[aria-haspopup]').forEach(button => {
  button.addEventListener('click', () => {
    const expanded = button.getAttribute('aria-expanded') === 'true';
    button.setAttribute('aria-expanded', !expanded);
  });
});
    • This code finds every button with aria-haspopup.
    • When clicked, it checks if aria-expanded is currently true, then toggles it.
    • This prevents menus from randomly opening on hover and gives users control.

    Accessible Navigation Is an Ongoing Commitment

    Building an accessible mega menu isn’t a one-and-done project. It takes careful planning, coding, and constant testing to make sure all users can move through your site with ease. However, the payoff is huge: better usability for everyone, including people with temporary or permanent disabilities, and compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG.

    Remember, accessibility benefits everyone. Even a user with a short-term injury or someone on a small mobile device can benefit from keyboard-friendly and screen-reader-friendly menus. By making small changes to HTML, CSS, ARIA attributes, and JavaScript, you can open up your site to a larger audience and provide a smoother experience for all.

    If you need expert guidance on web accessibility or want a thorough audit of your online store, 216digital can help. We specialize in creating inclusive, user-friendly experiences that keep your customers coming back and keep your website on the cutting edge of accessibility best practices. Don’t let your mega menus become mega barriers—start making them accessible today!

    Greg McNeil

    March 11, 2025
    How-to Guides
    Accessibility, accessible code, How-to, mega menu, web developers, web development, Website Accessibility

  • The Key to Compliance? Continuous Accessibility

    When businesses think about web accessibility, many assume it’s a one-and-done task—an issue to be resolved, checked off a list and forgotten. However, true accessibility is an ongoing process that requires regular updates, monitoring, and proactive improvements. Without continuous accessibility efforts, websites can quickly fall out of compliance, leading to legal risks, increased remediation costs, and a frustrating experience for users with disabilities.

    For businesses looking to stay ahead, the key to compliance isn’t a single fix—it’s a long-term commitment to digital inclusion.

    Why Accessibility Can’t Be a One-and-Done Project

    Legal Landscape is Always Changing

    The number of digital accessibility lawsuits continues to rise year after year. In 2024 alone, over 4,000 lawsuits were filed, and more than 78,000 demand letters were sent in 2022—an average of over 1,500 per week. These legal challenges highlight the growing expectation for businesses to maintain accessible digital spaces.

    At the same time, accessibility regulations continue to evolve. Updates to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) introduce new requirements that organizations must meet. A website that was compliant last year may not meet the latest standards today. Without continuous accessibility, even well-intentioned businesses can fall out of compliance, increasing the risk of legal action. Keeping up with regulatory changes through ongoing monitoring ensures that your website remains accessible and legally protected.

    Technology and Websites Constantly Change

    Websites rarely stay the same for long. New products, services, or design changes can quickly introduce barriers if they’re not tested for accessibility. A single line of new code could break an important accessibility feature. That’s why continuous accessibility involves regularly testing your site. You’ll spot problems early, fix them, and keep your site usable for everyone.

    Business Risks of Treating Accessibility as a One-Time Fix

    Increased Legal Vulnerability

    If you ignore continuous accessibility, you open yourself up to legal issues. A website that doesn’t maintain ongoing compliance will have more accessibility gaps. These gaps can lead to lawsuits or demand letters. And once you’re in legal trouble, you’ll face tight deadlines to fix problems. This rushed work disrupts your team and can become very expensive. On the other hand, a business that practices continuous accessibility can stay ahead of potential lawsuits by showing it takes compliance seriously.

    Cost of Reactive Fixes vs. Proactive Maintenance

    Fixing problems under legal pressure can cost far more than addressing them early. When you wait until someone files a lawsuit or sends a demand letter, you don’t have time to plan your budget or workload. With continuous accessibility, you can schedule regular checks and fixes. You stay in control of your spending and protect your bottom line by avoiding big surprises.

    Loss of Control Over Your Development Roadmap

    If you get sued for an inaccessible website, you may be forced to pause other important projects in order to fix issues quickly. This can mean cutting back on marketing campaigns, product launches, or site improvements. When you adopt continuous accessibility, you maintain control over your development roadmap. You never have to rush or sacrifice other work because accessibility is always part of your process.

    The Competitive Advantage of Continuous Accessibility

    Expanding Market Reach

    Accessibility is not just about meeting legal rules—it’s also about reaching more people. Many individuals with disabilities rely on websites that meet their needs. By focusing on continuous accessibility, you’re opening your site to a wider audience. In fact, 85% of businesses report that accessibility gives them a competitive edge. When your website is easy to use for everyone, you win more customers and build loyalty.

    Stronger Brand Reputation & Customer Loyalty

    People notice when a website welcomes them with clear navigation, captions, and other accessible features. A commitment to continuous accessibility tells the world you care about every user’s experience. That’s a message that builds goodwill. Not only does it help people with disabilities, but it also creates a simpler, more direct experience for all visitors. Happier customers are more likely to return and recommend your brand to others.

    How to Sustainably Maintain Digital Accessibility

    Implementing an Ongoing Monitoring Solution

    Your accessibility work should not stop after an initial audit. You need to track your site’s status in real-time. Automated testing tools and manual reviews can show if any new barriers appear. For instance, a11y.Radar by 216digital offers a real-time monitoring and compliance tracking system. This solution is designed to help you practice continuous accessibility without it feeling burdensome. When an issue appears, you can fix it right away, long before it becomes a bigger problem or legal headache.

    Accessibility Training & Organizational Buy-In

    Many accessibility problems happen because teams don’t know how to avoid them. If developers, designers, and content creators are not trained in best practices, problems sneak in during everyday tasks. That’s why continuous accessibility relies on ongoing training. Encourage your staff to learn about accessible coding, design, and content rules. When everyone sees accessibility as part of their job, it’s easier to maintain compliance over time

    .

    Partnering with Experts for Long-Term Success

    You don’t have to handle accessibility on your own. Working with a team of experts can ease your workload and calm any fears you might have. A trusted partner stays updated on changing rules and new technology. They guide you in making smart choices about your site’s structure and features. By collaborating with experts, continuous accessibility becomes a manageable task rather than a giant project. You keep your site welcoming and compliant without excessive effort.

    Future-Proof Your Website with Continuous Accessibility

    Accessibility isn’t a one-time box to check off. It’s an ongoing journey that requires regular care and attention. By embracing continuous accessibility, you protect your business from lawsuits, manage your budget more effectively, and reach a broader audience. You also build a reputation for being inclusive, which makes users feel valued and keeps them coming back.

    If your business has already taken the first steps with a web remediation project, don’t stop there. Make sure your site stays compliant by practicing continuous accessibility as part of your standard workflow. You will save money, avoid risks, and serve a diverse group of people who might otherwise be left out.

    At 216digital, we understand that continuous accessibility may sound daunting. That’s why we offer expertise and tools like a11y.Radar, a real-time monitoring solution. Together, we can keep your site compliant and user-friendly. It’s time to future-proof your website, protect your brand, and ensure a better online experience for everyone. Because when you invest in continuous accessibility, you invest in long-term success—both for your business and for the people who depend on it.

    Greg McNeil

    March 7, 2025
    Web Accessibility Monitoring
    Accessibility, Accessibility monitoring, ADA Compliance, web accessibility monitoring, Website Accessibility

  • How State Accessibility Laws Are Changing the Web

    Laws are supposed to make things clearer, right? But when it comes to web accessibility, things aren’t always so straightforward. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is meant to ensure equal access for people with disabilities, yet it doesn’t outline exactly what website owners need to do. That legal gray area has led many states to introduce their own state accessibility laws, filling in the gaps and setting clearer expectations.

    These state accessibility laws aren’t just patchwork solutions—they’re shaping the future of the internet. For businesses and website owners, staying ahead of these changes can mean the difference between compliance and costly legal trouble. More importantly, these laws help build a more inclusive web, ensuring people with disabilities can navigate online spaces without barriers.

    Why States Are Creating Their Own Accessibility Laws

    The ADA was designed to protect people with disabilities, and for a while, many assumed it would extend naturally to websites. But here’s the problem: the law doesn’t spell out digital accessibility requirements, leaving businesses uncertain about what’s expected of them. Meanwhile, the internet has evolved faster than legislation can keep up.

    To bridge this gap, some states are passing their own state accessibility laws, setting clear rules for businesses and organizations. Unlike broad federal regulations, these state accessibility laws often provide detailed guidelines that eliminate the guesswork for website owners.

    How These Laws Set New Standards

    When a state enacts digital accessibility laws, it typically mandates a set of standards that websites must follow. The most common benchmark? The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) cover essential elements like color contrast, keyboard navigation, and video captions.

    For example, state accessibility laws may require public-facing websites to comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA. These state-specific regulations provide direct instructions, making compliance more straightforward than federal mandates. As more states adopt these standards, websites become more user-friendly and accessible to all.

    Filling the Gaps in Federal Law

    Federal laws play a crucial role in protecting people with disabilities, but they often lack specifics. This ambiguity leaves businesses unsure of how to achieve compliance. State accessibility laws provide much-needed clarity.

    For instance, some state accessibility laws require businesses to add alt text to images—a simple description that screen readers use to help blind users understand visual content. Others mandate captions or transcripts for videos, ensuring accessibility for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. These straightforward updates can significantly improve usability.

    What Website Owners Need to Know

    If you own or manage a website, these state accessibility laws matter. States may have different requirements, and even if your business is based in one location, you could be subject to laws of another state if your website serves customers there.

    Ignoring state accessibility laws isn’t just risky—it can be expensive. Some states impose fines for noncompliance, and lawsuits over website accessibility are on the rise. Even small businesses aren’t immune.

    But compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties. A well-structured website with clear navigation, readable text, and a thoughtful layout benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities. When your site is easier to use, visitors are more likely to stay, shop, and return.

    Getting Started with Web Accessibility

    Improving website accessibility might seem daunting, but breaking it down into simple steps makes it manageable:

    1. Audit Your Website – Use free tools like WAVE or Google Lighthouse to scan your site for common accessibility issues, such as low color contrast or missing alt text.
    2. Follow Recognized Guidelines – Familiarize yourself with WCAG, which offers clear instructions on making digital content more inclusive.
    3. Train Your Team – Developers, designers, and content creators should understand basic accessibility principles. Even small changes—like using descriptive link text—can improve usability.
    4. Stay Informed – Laws are evolving. Keep up with accessibility regulations in the states where you do business. When in doubt, consult a legal expert or an accessibility specialist.
    5. Test with Real Users – Automated tools can catch some issues, but nothing beats real user feedback. People with disabilities can provide invaluable insights into how accessible (or inaccessible) your site truly is.

    What’s Next for Web Accessibility?

    State-level laws are pushing accessibility forward, and we’re already seeing a shift. Features like alt text and captions are becoming standard rather than optional. As more states implement stricter rules, they may eventually influence federal law, leading to more transparent nationwide standards.

    States also learn from each other. When one successfully enforces digital accessibility, others often adopt similar strategies. This collective effort is helping to create a more inclusive web for everyone.

    Staying Ahead of State Accessibility Laws

    Keeping up with changing accessibility laws ensures compliance while making websites more user-friendly. Small improvements can make a significant impact—not just legally, but in terms of customer satisfaction and usability.

    Since the internet is essential for shopping, learning, and staying connected, prioritizing accessibility benefits everyone. Thoughtful design choices don’t just reduce legal risks; they make online experiences better for all users.

    Not sure where to start? 216digital can help. Schedule a briefing with our team to stay ahead of new accessibility laws and ensure your website remains inclusive for all visitors.

    Greg McNeil

    March 6, 2025
    Legal Compliance
    Accessibility, accessibility laws, Legal compliance, state accessibility laws, web compliance, Website Accessibility

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

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

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

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

    What is a Web Accessibility Policy?

    Accessibility Statement: Your Promise to Visitors

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

    A good accessibility statement:

    • Clearly shows you care about accessibility.
    • Shares exactly how accessible your website currently is (like meeting WCAG 2.1 AA standards).
    • Gives easy ways for visitors to ask for help or report problems.

    This statement helps visitors feel welcome and shows you’re serious about meeting their needs.

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

    Here’s a quick way to remember the difference:

    • Accessibility Statement: Short, public, and visitor-focused. It’s your friendly promise to website users.
    • Accessibility Policy: Detailed, internal, and team-focused. It guides your team on exactly how to keep your site accessible, including who does what and when.

    Both are important. The statement lets visitors know you care, and the policy helps your team keep that promise.

    Creating a Strong Accessibility Policy

    Pick Clear Standards

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

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

    Clearly Assign Responsibilities

    Make it easy for everyone to know who does what:

    • Choose an accessibility lead or form a team from different areas like design, content, and web development.
    • Schedule regular checks (monthly or quarterly) to catch problems early.
    • Set up simple ways for users to report issues and quickly decide who will respond to these reports.

    Involve Everyone in Your Organization

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

    Keep an Eye on Third-Party Tools and Vendors

    Sometimes outside software or tools can accidentally create accessibility barriers. Avoid this by:

    • Checking accessibility before buying new software or services.
    • Asking vendors for proof of their products’ accessibility (like a VPAT).
    • Clearly stating accessibility requirements in your contracts.

    Putting Your Web Accessibility Policy Into Action

    Set Clear Goals and Deadlines

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

    Keep Your Policy Up-to-Date

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

    Building an Accessibility-Friendly Culture

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

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

    Conclusion

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

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

    Greg McNeil

    February 28, 2025
    Web Accessibility Training
    Accessibility, accessibility policy, accessibility statement, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
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