Is ADA Compliance Mandatory for Websites?
Let’s begin with the basics; what exactly is ADA compliance? ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, where the US Department of Justice made guidelines so websites can be accessible for individuals with disabilities. Although being ADA compliant is unnecessary in every case, it is the most ethical.
If in the case that the government funds your website, then your website must be ADA-compliant. Some federally funded organizations and businesses refer to public hospitals, schools, and other state or local government programs. Additionally, private businesses such as restaurants, doctor’s offices, shops, and hotels should also be ADA-compliant despite being privately owned.
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Why is This Relevant?
Especially in this day in age, most websites should be ADA-compliant. ADA compliance helps individuals with disabilities, including those with visual, hearing, or physical impairments, efficiently navigate and understand your website. Essentially, ADA compliance is the corporate social responsibility that your website should have so that it can be as accessible as possible. If your website is not ADA-compliant, you forgo the risk of having a formal complaint filed against you, which may lead to a lawsuit.
5 Tips on How to Make Your Website ADA Compliant:
- Provide alternative text (alt text) for images. Alternative text can help visually impaired users better understand the context of the images displayed on your website.
- Check on https://www.ada.gov/law-and-regs/design-standards/2010-stds/to see if your website meets the guidelines of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Using this resource can help ensure your website meets the standards.
- Include closed captions for videos. Closed captions can help individuals with hearing problems understand the video on your website.
- Conduct accessibility testing. Using online tools and resources to help you scan your website for accessibility issues can negate further complications.
- Avoid flashing content. Flashing content can trigger seizures or insensibility in some individuals, so avoiding it is for the better.
Capturing relevant information about customers, fans, followers, and friends enable us to create more personalized interactions.
Make Your Website Accessible Today
At Kraus Marketing, we specialize in creating ADA-compliant websites that are accessible to everyone. We understand the importance of accessibility and are committed to helping our clients meet their legal obligations and serve their entire audience—no matter what industry they specialize in. Contact us today to make your website accessible and inclusive for all.