Web Accessibility ADA Compliance
Have you seen websites with this symbol in the bottom corner and wondered what it is for? We want to fill you in!
This is an accessibility icon to indicate ADA compliance. This means the viewer can use this link to adjust your website settings and make it easier for them to interact with on the web. You can view the link on our website here as an example of what this looks like.
We want to clarify the details of ADA compliance so you’ll know whether this is something you need on your own website.
Is this mandatory for websites?
Technically, yes. However this is most important for websites for, or funded by, state or local governments and websites for businesses.
What is the risk?
Because of how the legislation is written, having a website that is not accessible to everyone will be interpreted as active discrimination. Worst case scenario - a lawsuit.
Are there mandatory guidelines?
The ADA (American Disability Act) was signed into law the summer of 1990. This was one year before the first HTML website went live. Needless to say, that law wasn’t ready for the online world that would take shape from that point forward. Because of this, the legislation has never established a technical standard for websites and the standards are actively changing.
TLDR - Yes, ADA compliance is considered mandatory, but the details of what it means to be compliant are still unclear and are actively changing.
So what does this mean for you?
For most of our clients, a lawsuit is fairly out of reach. But let’s look at this from a brand perspective.
Think about your values. If you value inclusivity, diversity, or people-first strategies, this is a great way to act on those values and ensure that your brand and website follow suit.
Think about your audience. If you want to make your website accessible to all, especially people with disabilities, especially those that may have trouble with sight or cognitive function, ADA compliance is an easy way to stay current.
Here’s how Averson can help:
We use a fantastic program called UserWay that stays current on ADA compliance for us. Our team can set up a plugin (with free or paid options) on your Squarespace website for a flat rate of $250. Reach out today to make this happen!
