the impact of accessibility
TRANSCRIPT
Web Applications
Mobile Applications
Ecommerce
Data Science
Content Management Systems
Digital & Technical Planning
Usability Testing
Integrations
Accessibility Consulting
Digital Content
AGENDA• What is Web Accessibility?
• The Real Impact
• Understanding the Guidelines
• How to Get Started
WEB ACCESSIBILITYDesigning and developing to ensure that a website’s content is accessible to all users, irrespective of ability.
Achieved by adhering to established guidelines.
WEB ACCESSIBILITYStarted gaining traction in 1999 with the release of the first web content accessibility guidelines.
Gained more attention through a series of lawsuits.
• Target
• Bank of America, HSBC, Fleet Bank, Bank One
• Marriott
• EdX
BLAME THE WCAGWCAG = Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
WCAG 1.0 wasn’t particularly clear
WCAG 2.0 is better, but difficult to parse
BLAME THE ADAThe ADA does not explicitly mention websites as required to be accessible.
This is likely going to change next year.
BLAME HUMAN NATUREPeople are generally not aware of the WCAG
Companies have viewed accessibility as an additional cost that threatens project budgets
People don’t like making tough choices
A11Y REALITYCrafting the right form and function for all users
Inclusive design
Mobile site v. responsive
MORE THAN BUSINESSBusiness needs may drive web accessibility
1 billion people with some form of a disability
Doing the right thing
WHAT IS THE WCAG?Created by the W3C / WAI
Four principles. 12 Guidelines. 61 testable criteria.
Covers a range of disabilities and assistive technologies
Three levels: A, AA, AAA
WHO IT’S FORUseful for designers, developers and QA
Helps ensure a wide range of disabilities and assistive technologies are covered
Enables automated testing for most criteria, but testing with real users is also required