Why is ADA Compliance Important for Your Website?

If you ask what ADA compliance is and why it is important for my website, you’ve come to the right place. Did you know that 16% of the global population has a disability? So, your website should be accessible to everyone. 

Why does ADA compliance matter? 

Aside from it being a requirement by law, it also promotes equality. It shows that your company is inclusive and that you care about accessibility for all. It also improves the usability of individuals with disabilities visiting your website. 

What is ADA Compliance for Websites? 

ADA website compliance for small business is following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). It provides you with a list of guidelines for understanding the four principles of accessibility. 

Who enforces ADA compliance? 

The answer is tricky. For websites, the Website Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are not a set of laws that can be enforced, and it is more of a standard for accessibility regulations. 

You can, however, face potential lawsuits from the public under Title III of the ADA. Neither Title III nor it’s implementing regulations state how a website must be coded to comply with the law. 

Make your website ADA compliant to avoid financial consequences in the form of: 

• Legal fees
• Possible settlements 
• The costs associated with rebuilding your website in compliance with the ADA 
• Potential public relations problems which might negatively impact your revenue

What does ADA compliance require? 

Website owners should review the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

WCAG offers a set of standards applied internationally to improve web accessibility. There are four criteria to meet: 

• Perceivable – all information, including user interface components, must be shown clearly, and it can’t be invisible to all of the users’ senses. 
• Operable – users must be able to use the interface freely. Interactions that cannot be performed should be eliminated. 
• Understandable – the information and the user interface must be easily understood by users. They need to know what to do when they visit a website. 
• Robust– the content must be strong so various user agents, such as assistive technologies, can interpret it. 

Who is exempt from ADA Compliance? 

ADA compliance does not apply to religious organizations, or other facilities controlled by a religious organization, such as a school or daycare center, and private clubs. 

Work with an ADA Compliance Agency! 

At NW Media Collective, we understand the importance of creating an accessible and inclusive digital experience for all users. That’s why we specialize in ADA compliance and strive to help our clients ensure that their websites meet the highest accessibility standards. 

Get in touch with us today to learn more about ADA compliance services and how we can help make your website more accessible.