Ignoring Website Accessibility Could Cost You More Than You Think

Website accessibility is a critical part of building an inclusive and user-friendly digital experience. But what is website accessibility, exactly? At its core, it means making sure that people of all abilities can access, navigate, and interact with your website effectively.

This includes users who rely on assistive technologies like screen readers or navigate using only a keyboard. Website accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, has a fair and equal opportunity to engage with your business online.

Why Website Accessibility Is Important

Website accessibility isn’t just about following the law—though laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) do require it. More importantly, accessibility helps you connect with a broader audience. Approximately 15% of the global population lives with a disability. By ensuring your website is accessible, you make your brand more inclusive and approachable.

Accessible websites perform better because they’re easier for everyone to use, which leads to more visitors sticking around and engaging with your site. By making sure your site works well for people with disabilities, you also improve the experience for all users. Google values this, and accessible sites often rank better in search results. This means more people will find your site, and once they’re on it, they’re more likely to stay and take the actions you want—whether that’s making a purchase, signing up, or reaching out.

What It Takes to Maintain a Compliant Website

Maintaining an accessible website is an ongoing effort. Compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is key to meeting industry standards. These guidelines cover everything from text readability to how images should be described for those using screen readers.

Key website accessibility best practices include:

• Using descriptive headings and semantic HTML to structure content for screen readers.
• Ensuring strong color contrast and avoiding color as the sole means of
  communication.
• Adding meaningful alt text to images and providing captions or transcripts for media.
• Enabling full keyboard navigation and ensuring visible focus states.
  Labeling all form fields clearly and including accessible error messages.
• Making content responsive and resizable without disrupting layout or functionality.
• Avoiding flashing content and limiting motion that may cause sensitivity issues.

It’s not just a one-time check—website accessibility requires regular updates, audits, and tests to ensure that all content remains accessible as your site evolves. This includes ensuring that new content, forms, and interactive elements are all accessible from day one. Integrating accessible design and development practices into your workflow is essential for ongoing compliance.

The Risks of Ignoring Website Accessibility

Neglecting website accessibility comes with serious consequences. On the legal side, businesses that fail to comply with accessibility standards risk lawsuits, which are on the rise. In 2023, over 4,600 website accessibility lawsuits were filed, and many businesses settled for tens of thousands of dollars to avoid lengthy trials.

Beyond the legal risks, a non-compliant website alienates a significant portion of potential customers. When your site isn’t accessible, you’re excluding people who could benefit from your services, not to mention tarnishing your brand’s reputation. Consumers today expect brands to be inclusive, and failing to meet accessibility standards can lead to negative press and lost trust.

How SyncShow Can Help You Build an Accessible Website

SyncShow helps businesses create accessible websites that meet legal and industry standards. We integrate accessibility best practices into the design and development process, ensuring your site is both usable and compliant from the start.

With accessibility at the forefront, we can help you avoid legal risks, expand your audience, and improve your website’s performance. By implementing proven strategies and providing ongoing support, SyncShow ensures your website remains accessible and inclusive, helping your business succeed in an increasingly digital world.