Businesses can face legal issues if their websites are not accessible to individuals with disabilities
This is because several countries have laws and regulations that require digital content to be accessible to everyone, including people with various disabilities.
For example, in the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been interpreted by some courts to apply to websites, meaning that a website’s lack of accessibility features could potentially lead to ADA compliance lawsuits.
Similar regulations exist in other jurisdictions, such as the European Union’s Web Accessibility Directive therefore, making sure your website is accessible is not only a matter of inclusivity and good business practice but also a legal necessity to avoid potential legal action.
There are several providers that offer accessibility solutions tailored for small or local businesses, helping you ensure your website is compliant with various accessibility standards, like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Here’s a list of providers:
- UserWay – Offers a comprehensive accessibility widget that can be easily installed on a website, providing instant compliance solutions and ongoing monitoring.
- AccessiBe – Uses AI and automation to make websites accessible, offering a simple integration process for businesses of all sizes.
- AudioEye – Provides a full suite of accessibility tools and services, including automated technology and manual auditing, to ensure websites meet accessibility standards.
- EqualWeb – Offers a customizable accessibility widget along with manual auditing services to help businesses comply with international accessibility standards.
- Siteimprove – Provides a platform that offers not only accessibility compliance tools but also SEO, analytics, and content quality management, helping businesses improve their overall web presence.
- WebAIM (Web Accessibility In Mind) – While not a tool, WebAIM offers resources, training, and consulting services to help organizations make their content accessible to people with disabilities.
- Tenon.io – Offers an API that can be integrated into development processes for real-time accessibility testing, alongside consulting and training services.
Takeaway
Choosing the right provider depends on your specific needs, your budget, and the level of support you require. Some businesses may benefit from automated solutions for immediate improvements, while others might need a more customized approach, including manual audits and consulting services, to address complex accessibility issues.