What Is Web Accessibility?

What does Web Accessibility really mean?

It means providing a way for all visitors to interact with your site, including those who require the use of assistive technologies. Your website is accessible if it works with a screen reader, if your videos have accurate subtitles and low flashing, if your colors have suitable contrast, and if it is navigable with assistive devices other than a mouse or touchpad.

A man standing in a hallway typing on his mobile phone
A smiling man sitting at a table looking down at his laptop

What does this mean for me?

Every website should be accessible to all patrons. Just like businesses are required to make buildings accessible to everyone, websites should also be usable for everyone. Website accessibility may be even more important than physical accessibility since the web is a virtual environment welcoming all users equally, even if they cannot or aren’t comfortable leaving home.

Website accessibility may seem like a difficult task, but it doesn’t have to be. Accessible Metrics is an easy-to-use tool that monitors website accessibility and provides error-resolution solutions. By improving your website accessibility, other factors may also be improved, like SEO, design, and usability for all visitors.

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What Is 508 Compliance?

508 Compliance refers to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which states that government resources should be accessible to all patrons.

  • 508 Compliance for web resources began Jan, 2018
  • 508 Compliance is required by all federal agencies and groups receiving federal funding.
  • Standards for compliance are based on WCAG 2.0 AA.
  • 508 Compliance refers to websites and all online resources including PDFs, videos, sign-up forms, and more.
Test My Site for 508 Compliance

What Is ADA compliance?

ADA Compliance refers to the Americans With Disabilities Act, which states that businesses must be accessible to all patrons.

  • Applies to governments, businesses, and non-profits.
  • States that businesses are responsible for making reasonable accommodations.
  • The Department of Justice and civil rights groups have won ADA lawsuits requiring noncompliant businesses to make their websites accessible.
  • Standards for compliance are based on WCAG 2.0 AA.
Test My Site for ADA Compliance

Is your website compliant?