When a potential customer like Judy lands on your website after being intrigued by an ad, they may engage with a video on your homepage. However, if this video lacks captions, it can be a barrier for individuals with hearing impairments. Non-compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can lead to customers leaving your site or even facing legal action due to inaccessible content.
Relax, though, as our 2024 ADA compliance checklist outlines essential features to ensure your website is accessible. Continue reading to discover more and subscribe to our Revenue Weekly newsletter for additional tips!
Understanding “ADA Compliant” means adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires public spaces, including the internet, to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes visual, physical, and other impairments that necessitate accommodations for equal access.
Non-compliance with ADA standards can result in lost customers and legal challenges. Our checklist helps ensure your website is accessible to all by addressing key areas:
– Adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
– Include image alt text
– Add captions to video content
– Eliminate rapidly flashing elements
– Remove empty header tags
– Pay attention to color contrast
– Notify users of time limits
– Organize your website logically
– Ensure keyboard navigation
– Use appropriate fonts
– Implement ARIA labels
Follow these guidelines to create a positive and functional website experience. The WCAG is a foundational element, helping businesses create more accessible web content. Its four core principles are a roadmap to ADA compliance.
Adding image alt text is crucial, as it provides context for visually impaired users when images don’t load. When creating alt text, ensure it’s descriptive and avoids keyword stuffing.
Video captions are essential for users with hearing impairments, making content more accessible. Avoid using elements that flash rapidly, as they can be harmful to epileptic users.
Empty header tags can confuse screen reader users, so remove them or add text when necessary. Pay attention to color contrast, as it impacts those with vision impairments, and be mindful of how you use color to define elements.
Adding notifications for time limits and organizing your website logically enhance user experience. Ensure your website is navigable with a keyboard, and use fonts that are easy to read.
Lastly, use ARIA labels to provide context for unlabeled elements, improving navigation for all users. If you need assistance, WebFX offers over 28 years of experience in web design and development to help you build an ADA-compliant website.
Contact us online or call 888-601-5359 to speak with a strategist and start your journey to ADA compliance!
