Accessibility
At WebWorld360 we are working steadily towards standards set out by governing bodies to make Web sites accessible to all.
We can now help you with your new site or re-work your existing site to meet those standards, thus helping make your Web site accessible to all users including those with disabilities.
Why is web accessibility important?
Accessible websites are usually more 'search engine friendly' and, therefore, more likely to be found by potential customers.
An accessible website, created in accordance with the World Wide Web Consortium's (W3C)Accessibility Guidelines, costs less to maintain, and is 'future proofed' – more likely to continue working as browsers and hardware are updated.
Accessible web design is important for organisations attempting to attract grant aid or funding, or contracts from public bodies. In the European Year of the Disabled 2003 the European Commission is more likely to consider funding organisations, which uphold the EC's e-accessibility aims.
Here are three good reasons why you should let us build or re-build your website with accessibility in mind:
Legal
The Disability Discrimination Act requires organisations in the UK to make online information accessible to disabled people. Court action has never been taken in Britain although there have been high profile cases elsewhere. The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) intends to formally investigate online service providers in spring 2003. Court action on the grounds of discriminatory practice could be costly and damaging to public relations.
Ethical
It makes good business sense for organisations to demonstrate an inclusive and ethical approach – a good image will have an impact on customer perception and buying behaviour.
Commercial
Some organisations may be reluctant to prioritise web accessibility if they believe legal and ethical issues are the only driving forces. However, accessible websites have advantages: Websites designed to be accessible will attract a larger number of potential customers. The DRC found that disabled people in Scotland have a combined spending power of £3.6 bn, yet still have difficulties gaining access to goods and services. It is estimated that there are 8 million disabled users in the UK.
How do I achieve web accessibility?
Legally speaking, you achieve accessibility if your site is not deemed to discriminate against a user on the basis of their impairment. This is determined by how your site 'measures up' when judged against the W3C Accessibility Guidelines and the Disability Discrimination Act.
Whatever your reason for having an Accessible Web site we will help. Our service is available during the design of a new website or through a review of your current site.