In this introduction to website accessibility guidelines, we will look at a few of the key accessibility standards that are worth being aware of.
We begin by defining what website accessibility involves and why it is important for your website to follow website accessibility guidelines. The article explores key accessibility standards, such as WCAG 2.0, 2.1, the forthcoming WCAG 3.0, and New Zealand's Government Web Standards; Web Accessibility Standards 1.1 and 1.3. Additionally, we highlight how Somar Digital can assist in making your websites accessible, underscoring the importance of digital inclusivity.
This blog serves as your starting point for understanding the significance of website accessibility guidelines and their impact on creating an inclusive online space.
What is Website Accessibility
Website accessibility(external link) refers to the inclusive practice of removing barriers that prevent interaction with, or access to websites, by people with disabilities. When sites are correctly designed and developed, all users have equal access to information and functionality.
It involves a comprehensive approach, including everything from the choice of colour contrasts and text size to navigation ease and content structure, ensuring that everyone, including those with impairments such as vision, hearing, mobility, and cognitive issues, can engage fully with the site.
Why is Website Accessibility Important
The significance of website accessibility cannot be overstated. The internet is a fundamental resource for employment, government, education, healthcare, commerce, and more. Ensuring that this resource is accessible to all is a matter of digital inclusivity and equity.
Furthermore, accessible websites benefit from higher search rankings, wider reach, and improved user experience for all visitors, not just those with disabilities.
Website Accessibility Guidelines Examples
WCAG 2
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 and its subsequent update, WCAG 2.1(external link), are part of a series of web accessibility guidelines published by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)'s Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). These guidelines are the most widely accepted standards for web accessibility, offering a comprehensive set of recommendations for making web content more accessible to people with disabilities.
WCAG 3
WCAG 3.0, currently in development, aims to address limitations of the previous versions by covering a broader range of disabilities and providing more flexible testing methods. It is anticipated to introduce new ways of evaluating and measuring accessibility, making it easier for website owners to ensure their sites are inclusive.
NZ Government Web Standards
The New Zealand Government Web Standards are a set of requirements that aim to ensure websites are accessible and usable for as many people as possible. These standards are mandatory for all New Zealand government organisations, emphasising the need for public sector websites to be accessible to all citizens, including those with disabilities.
Web Accessibility Standard 1.1
The Web Accessibility Standard 1.1(external link) focuses on making web content accessible to a wider range of people with disabilities, including accommodations for blindness and low vision, deafness and hearing loss, limited movement, speech disabilities, photosensitivity, and combinations of these.
Web Accessibility Standard 1.3
Similarly, Web Accessibility Standard 1.3 builds upon these principles, incorporating newer technologies and methodologies to improve accessibility further. It addresses the ever-evolving nature of the web and the diverse ways in which people interact with online content.
How Somar Digital Can Take Care of Accessibility for Your Website
Somar Digital can help you implement website accessibility guidelines, ensuring that your digital presence is not only compliant with current standards but also prepared for future developments. Our approach encompasses a thorough audit of your site, identification of potential accessibility barriers, and the implementation of necessary changes to enhance inclusivity.
By partnering with Somar Digital, you ensure your website is accessible to all users, thereby enhancing user experience, expanding your audience, and complying with legal standards.
