AI-Powered Website Accessibility Software

Auditing website accessibility involves a two-pronged approach: using automated tools and conducting manual testing.

Automated Tools:

Accessibility checkers: These online tools scan your website code for common accessibility issues like missing alt text for images, improper heading structures, and low color contrast. Some popular options include Google Lighthouse and AllyRight.

Manual Testing:

Assistive technologies: Simulate the user experience with disabilities by using screen readers, keyboard navigation, and screen magnifiers. This helps identify areas where these tools might struggle to access content or navigate the website.
Real user testing: Recruit users with disabilities to test your website and provide feedback on their experience. This offers valuable insights into usability challenges they might encounter.

Anyone can attempt a basic website accessibility audit, but a thorough and comprehensive audit might be best left to someone with more expertise. Here’s a breakdown:

Basic Audit (Anyone can try):

• Use online checkers: There are free automated accessibility checkers available online like Google Lighthouse and AllyRight. These tools can identify basic issues like missing alt text or low color contrast.

Limitations:

• Limited scope: These tools primarily rely on code analysis and may miss more nuanced accessibility concerns.
• Doesn’t simulate user experience: They can’t replicate the challenges faced by users with assistive technologies.

There are several significant risks associated with not having an accessible website. These risks can be categorized into three main areas: legal, audience reach, and customer base.

Legal Liability:

• Lawsuits: In some countries, like the United States, accessibility standards are mandated by law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to websites of public entities and businesses that operate online. Not complying with ADA website accessibility standards can lead to lawsuits, which can be expensive to defend and settle.

Ostracizing/Reducing Website Audience & Customer Base:

• Limited Reach: The World Health Organization estimates that over 1 billion people globally experience some form of disability. By not making your website accessible, you’re essentially excluding this vast potential audience from engaging with your content or services.
• Negative Brand Perception: In today’s digital world, users increasingly expect websites to be inclusive. An inaccessible website can be perceived as discriminatory and out-of-touch, potentially damaging your brand reputation.

Reduced Customer Base:

• Lost Sales: If users with disabilities cannot navigate your website or access information easily, they are unlikely to convert into customers. This can lead to lost sales opportunities and hinder your business growth.
• Customer Dissatisfaction: Even customers with temporary disabilities, like someone with a broken arm struggling to use a mouse, can experience frustration if your website is inaccessible. This can lead to customer dissatisfaction and negatively impact brand loyalty.

Website accessibility audits are crucial, even if websites aren’t always legally required. Here’s why:

• Catch hidden issues: Audits uncover technical problems that might hinder accessibility.
• Meet compliance standards: Audits help ensure your website aligns with accessibility guidelines like WCAG.
• Build an inclusive website: Audits identify areas for improvement to create a user-friendly experience for everyone.
• Stay up-to-date: Audits ensure your website remains accessible as best practices evolve.

In regions with accessibility laws, audits can help you avoid legal issues. By prioritizing accessibility audits, you create a website that’s welcoming and legally compliant.