Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1523608
A long with an increasingly digital world, comes an increase in dif- ficulties regarding accessibility in website technology. Numerous retailers have faced the consequences of non-com- pliance regarding their webpages, resulting in significant exposure to loss. According to the American with Disabilities Act, 61 million adults have some type of disability, that is roughly 1 in 4 Americans. Statistically speaking, the chances are, at least one of your consumers could benefit from proper webpage maintenance and accessibility. e Americans with Disabilities Act has set forth guidelines for retailers to protect them- selves and to better service their clientele. Understanding ADA Website Compliance ADA website compliance refers to the process of making websites and digital content accessible to individuals with disabilities, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, and mobility impairments. Websites must be designed and developed in a way that accommodates various assistive technologies, enabling users with disabilities to perceive, navigate, and interact with the content effectively. Now that we have a better understanding of what the ADA is hoping to achieve, I can share with you 9 simple fixes that you can enact on your company webpage today. 1. Alternative Texts for Images: Providing descriptive texts in association with images displayed on your webpage, allows for screen readers to convey all information associated with your marketing. is upgrade is specifically encouraged to create accessibility to clientele that may be visually impaired. 2. Text Transcripts and Captions: Offer an alternative text transcript for audio content and captioning for video content. An easy addition and service for those with hearing disabilities. 3. Keyboard Accessibility: All functionalities offered on your retailer website should be operable through a keyboard interface. Ensuring those who do not have a mouse or the inability to use one can still access content. 4. Readable Fonts and Colors: Select font, colors and backgrounds that are easily readable and provide proper contrast between the text and background. 5. Structured Content: HTML tags are used on a web page to define how your web browser must format and display. Proper HTML tags create a logical document structure, assisting screen readers interpret and navigate content. 6. Accessible Rich Internet Applications: Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA), is a set of specifications developed by World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to enhance HTML, JAVA Script and related technologies. ARIA assists in making web applications more accessible to people with disabilities. 7. Responsive Web Design: Ensure that your web page is compatible and accessi- ble on all internet platforms. As well as accessible from all devices, such as cell phones, desktop computers, tablets, and more. 8. Test With Assistive Technology: Implement regular testing of your website's accessibility using a variety of assistive technologies. Continuously update and design as needed for continued ADA compliance. 9. Accessibility Statement: Include an accessibility statement on your website, outlining your commitment to ADA compliance and providing a point of contact for users with accessibility issues. Conclusion Despite the ease of these quick fixes, some may benefit from the option of unwavering security. Insurance can offer this protection through the exploration of a Management Liability Policy, but the best way to reduce risk is to mitigate your exposure by enacting a pre-loss risk management plan. ADA website compliance is not just a legal obligation; it's a moral imperative to ensure equal access and inclusion for all users. Embracing accessibility best practices, organizations can create a digital experience that empower individu- als with disabilities to engage fully with their online content and services. n WEBSITE COMPLIANCE 24 Footwear Insight Business Report Quarterly ~ Q2 July 8 2024 footwearinsight.com TIPS IN DIGITAL ACCESSIBILITY NAVIGATING ADA WEBSITE COMPLIANCE Josilyn Kriskovich is a Strategic Account Executive at Hobson Insurance, a division of Hub International. For more information: Josilyn.kriskovich@hubinternational.com, www.businessquote.com or (406)350-1433.