Digital accessibility has been a hot topic for a while now. However, in the last decade or so, it has become even more notable and prominent. People are increasingly using digital resources for both work and leisure, leading to a noticeable gap in digital accessibility.  

Digital Accessibility

 

It is first important to acknowledge that digital accessibility does not only benefit people with diversabilities (diverse abilities). While it is true that this population’s needs should be put first when working to improve digital accessibility, it ultimately has benefits for everyone.

Reduces Eye Strain

Eye strain is a serious problem for people who work on computers all day or for individuals who spend a lot of time on their smartphones. Eye strain can cause headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. 

 

Accessible websites that offer the following features can help reduce eye strain for everyone, not just individuals who are vision impaired:

  • Dark mode
  • High contrast text and backgrounds
  • Large text options

 

All of these features are easy to implement on both desktop and mobile versions of your website. With at least 50% of the population currently dealing with symptoms of eye strain, providing a website that is accessible can have a positive impact on a wide audience.

Improves Understanding

Everyone learns differently. People prefer options when it comes to consuming digital media. Video on social media platforms or websites is a great example. While some people prefer to listen to the media, others prefer to read the captions. Most prefer to have both options, in case they miss a soundbite.

 

This also proves true for training opportunities. All training materials should be available in a wide variety of formats to allow people to choose the way that they learn most effectively. It also speaks to your understanding of the need for diversity and inclusion in your organization.

 

Helps with General User Experience on a Website

The goal of nearly every organization that launches a website is to have it listed on pages one or two of Google. Recently, Google has started placing an even higher focus on user experience as a ranking signal.

When you design a website for accessibility, you also design it for a better overall user experience. Google is able to recognize this, both from a technical standpoint and from signals from users on your website. Not only are you helping users to better navigate your website, you are also giving your organization a better chance to thrive digitally.

 

Providing great digital accessibility across the board can also help your business avoid Section 508 compliance issues. When it comes down to it, digital accessibility benefits everyone from the organization, to fully-abled people, to individuals with diversabilities. 

 

Do you need a digital accessibility solution that works for your organization? Our accessibility team at Applied Development has the expertise to create a fully accessible digital solution for your employees and patrons. You can give us a call at 410.571.4016 or reach out online for more information.