A well-designed website isn’t just about aesthetics or functionality—it’s about inclusivity. More than one billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, and many struggle to navigate websites that aren’t built with accessibility in mind.

For businesses and organizations, accessibility isn’t optional. Beyond being the right thing to do, it’s a legal requirement (ADA, WCAG compliance) and a key factor in user experience (UX), SEO, and brand credibility.

An inaccessible website excludes users, reduces engagement, and increases legal risk. However, with the right strategies, you can ensure that every visitor can seamlessly interact with your content, regardless of ability.

Understanding Web Accessibility: Who It Benefits

Accessibility doesn’t just help users with disabilities—it improves the overall experience for all visitors.

Users with visual impairments – Screen readers rely on proper alt text, clear heading structures, and high-contrast designs.
Users with motor disabilities – Websites should be navigable via keyboard shortcuts for those who cannot use a mouse.
Users with cognitive impairments – Simple layouts, straightforward language, and predictable navigation enhance usability.
Older users – As populations age, more users rely on assistive technology to browse the web.

Fact: Over 26% of adults in the U.S. live with some form of disability, making web accessibility a critical business consideration.

ADA & WCAG Compliance: The Legal Side of Accessibility

In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires websites to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide the global standard for compliance, focusing on four core principles:

1. Perceivable: Content Must Be Understandable

• Provide alt text for images so screen readers can describe them.
• Ensure text is high-contrast and resizable for readability.
• Offer transcripts and captions for videos to assist users with hearing impairments.

2. Operable: Navigation Must Be Intuitive

• Allow users to navigate entirely via keyboard (no mouse required).
• Avoid flashing animations that could trigger seizures (WCAG recommends a three-flash rule).
• Provide straightforward, consistent navigation that doesn’t confuse users.

3. Understandable: Content Must Be Clear & Predictable

• Use simple, concise language—avoid complex jargon.
• Ensure form fields have clear labels and error messages.
• Make links descriptive instead of generic (e.g., “Read our accessibility guide” instead of “Click here”)

4. Robust: Compatible with Assistive Technologies

• Ensure websites work with screen readers, speech recognition software, and other assistive tools.
• Use semantic HTML to structure content properly for all devices.

Legal Implications: Companies that fail to comply with ADA and WCAG guidelines risk lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage.

Practical Steps to Improve Web Accessibility

Improving accessibility doesn’t require a complete redesign—small changes can significantly impact.

✅ Start with an Accessibility Audit

Use tools like WAVE, Axe, or Google Lighthouse to scan your website for compliance issues and get actionable fixes.

✅ Optimize Images & Multimedia

• Add alt text to every image.
• Ensure videos have closed captions and transcripts.
• Use descriptive file names instead of generic labels.

✅ Improve Text Readability

• Use at least 16px font size for body text.
• Ensure color contrast meets WCAG standards for visibility.
• Offer text-to-speech options for users who prefer audio.

✅ Test Keyboard Navigation

• Unplug your mouse and try navigating your site using only the Tab key.
• Ensure dropdown menus, buttons, and forms are fully accessible.
• Implement skip navigation links so users can jump directly to content.

✅ Stay Updated with WCAG Guidelines

Web accessibility standards evolve—regular audits ensure your site remains compliant and user-friendly.

Why Accessibility is a Competitive Advantage

Beyond compliance, accessibility benefits SEO, engagement, and brand reputation:

SEO Boost – Google favors accessible websites, improving search rankings.
Expanded Audience – A more inclusive website attracts more users and potential clients.
Better User Experience – Simple, structured design benefits all users, not just those with disabilities.

Example: Websites with accessible designs see lower bounce rates and higher conversions because they are easier for visitors.

Velant: Making Accessibility Simple & Effective

Ensuring web accessibility requires design, coding, and compliance expertise, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. At Velant, we help businesses audit, optimize, and maintain accessibility standards, ensuring every visitor can navigate, interact, and engage seamlessly.

Want to make your website fully accessible? Contact Velant today for an ADA & WCAG compliance review and start creating a more inclusive digital experience.