Hamilton Web Solutions
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Why is web accessibility an issue?
* Lack of standards in the early days of the web
* Ignorance of the needs of disabled web users
* Development tools were very poor at creating accessible websites
* Limited advice and support available
What are the obligations in the DDA?
Broadly speaking, the DDA makes its lawful to discriminate against disabled
people in the way in which you recruit and employ people; provide services;
or provide education.
How does it apply to Websites?
Websites may be covered under the employment provisions, as they may be
a means of advertising jobs; or there may be an intranet which staff need
to use. websites will most commonly be covered when they constitute the
provision of a service, or they are related to education.
What is Web Accessibility?
Web accessibility is about designing sites so that as many people as possible can access and interact with them effectively and easily, independent of who they are or how they access the net.
This particularly benefits disabled and older people, many of whom see the web as an empowering medium giving them access to information and services that they either would not have access to in person or would have to rely on other people to provide.
What are the benefits?
Web accessibility is not just about meeting legal obligations; there are numerous benefits, which include:
- Reaching a wider audience
- Makes your site more useable for everyone
- Reduces site maintenance - cut costs
- Helps with search engine rankings
- Platform independence
- Browser independence
- Social responsibility and reputation
Who does it effect?
It is important to understand that web accessibility is not just for 'disabled people' but also importand for:
- People who use PDAs such as Palms and iPhones to access the web
- People who have temporary impairments such as a broken arm or wrist
- People behind secure firewalls that can block out JavaScript for security reasons
- Surfers over 50 who might have minor vision, mobility or hearing problems
- People who access the internet away from the traditional desk environment for example in an internet cafe or doing other tasks that require the use of their hands
- Any organisation which wants to maximise its profile in the community and attract disabled service users
People with specific disabilities that have problems with inaccessible websites can be broadly categorised into four key groupings:
- Vision
- Hearing
- Mobility problems
- Cognitive, Mental and Learning Disabilities
Redesigning a website is not just about changing pictures or its colour scheme. It involves a wide range of skills and disciplines. Think about those sites you do business with and why. Your website reflects your business: bad sites are easy. A professionally designed site takes time, effort and keeps your customers coming back again and again!
If you'd like a free basic evaluation of your website, looking to redesign or have a website, then just get in touch with us at Hamilton Web Solutions.