Your Guide to an Accessible Website Redesign: Everything You Need To Know

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, websites can become outdated within three to five years due to technological advancements and changing consumer expectations.

A redesign not only refreshes your company’s online presence but also offers a crucial opportunity to enhance web accessibility. Digital accessibility is not just about compliance; it’s about inclusion and equal access. With over 61 million adults in the United States living with a disability, the impact of accessible websites cannot be overstated.

This guide takes your website redesign beyond aesthetics and functionality, helping you integrate best practices in ADA compliance and online accessibility. Our team of web development and accessibility experts at ADA Site Compliance will guide you through every step of the process.

We will ensure your website redesign promotes inclusion, enhances user experience, and positions your business as a leader in digital accessibility.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Digital Accessibility

In today’s digital age, ensuring that a website is accessible to all users is not just an option but a critical necessity. Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508, along with various state and local regulations, mandates that websites be accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.

This legal and ethical requirement is underpinned by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which serve as the cornerstone for creating accessible digital experiences.

The WCAG provides a clear and comprehensive framework for developing websites that cater to users of all abilities. By following its principles, organizations can create perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust websites.

The Potential for Change and the Benefits of Web Accessibility

Web accessibility isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a strategic necessity. By creating an accessible website, you unlock a vast audience, and enhance your company’s reputation, and these eight benefits:

• 1. Legal Compliance

  Adhering to accessibility standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508, and specific state regulations is crucial to avoid costly legal battles. The increasing number of accessibility-related lawsuits underscores the importance of proactive compliance.

• 2. Commitment to Inclusion

  A digitally accessible website reflects your organization’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It shows your commitment to creating a fair digital experience for all users. By removing barriers for individuals with disabilities, you demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity.

• 3. Expanding Market Reach

  The aging population and the significant purchasing power of people with disabilities represent a substantial, untapped market. Making your website accessible allows you to attract and engage this lucrative customer segment.

• 4. Leveraging AI and Emerging Technologies to Future-Proof your Website

  As AI technologies like search engines and chatbots become more prevalent, the importance of accessible website design grows. A website that adheres to the WCAG interacts more effectively with these technologies, enhancing both search engine visibility and overall user experience.

• 5. SEO Benefits

  Accessibility and search engine optimization (SEO) are closely linked. Prioritizing accessibility improves your website’s structure, navigation, and content clarity, which are all critical components of SEO. This enhances your site’s search engine rankings and overall discoverability.

• 6. Enhancing User Experience

  Accessible websites provide a better user experience for everyone, not just those with disabilities. Features like clear navigation, descriptive headings, and readable text benefit all users, making your website more user-friendly and engaging.

• 7. Building Brand Loyalty

  When users can easily navigate and interact with your website, they are more likely to have a positive experience, which fosters brand loyalty. By prioritizing accessibility, you show that you value all users, enhancing customer satisfaction and retention.

• 8. Competitive Advantage

  An accessible website can set you apart from competitors who have not yet prioritized accessibility. By leading the way in inclusivity and user experience, you position your company as a forward-thinking and socially responsible leader in your industry.

Dispelling Six Common Accessibility Myths

Creating a truly accessible website often encounters roadblocks due to pervasive myths. To clear the air and set the record straight, let’s debunk some common misconceptions about accessibility and highlight the truth about inclusive design.

• Myth 1: Accessibility Stifles Creative Expression

  Contrary to popular belief, accessibility is not a limitation on creativity but an invitation to innovate. Focusing on inclusion broadens your design horizons.

  When user experience is prioritized for everyone, it often leads to more intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. Designers can find creative ways to make websites both beautiful and accessible, enhancing the overall experience for all users.

• Myth 2: Accessibility Benefits Only a Few

  Accessibility extends far beyond catering to individuals with disabilities. It benefits a much wider audience, including the elderly, people with temporary limitations like broken limbs or eye issues, and users in challenging environments with poor lighting or high noise levels. Accessible design aims to improve the user experience for everyone, making websites more usable and enjoyable for all visitors.

• Myth 3: Achieving WCAG Compliance is Expensive and Time-Consuming

  Integrating accessibility into your website from the outset is more cost-effective and efficient than retrofitting an inaccessible site later. By adhering to accessibility guidelines from the beginning, you avoid costly remediation efforts and potential legal issues. Accessibility should be seen as an integral part of the design process, not an afterthought.

• Myth 4: Overlay Widgets are a Simple Solution

  Overlay widgets, plugins, and toolbars are often marketed as quick fixes for accessibility issues. However, these solutions are not only ineffective but can also introduce new problems.

  These tools do not address the core accessibility challenges and may create additional barriers for users. Relying on such shortcuts can expose your organization to legal risks and fail to provide a genuinely accessible experience.

• Myth 5: Accessibility is Only About Compliance

  While complying with legal requirements like the ADA and WCAG is crucial, accessibility is fundamentally about creating an inclusive and equitable online environment.

  It’s about recognizing the diverse needs of your users and ensuring everyone has equal access to information and services. By focusing on accessibility, you demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity.

• Myth 6: Accessible Design Limits Functionality

  Some believe that making a website accessible will limit its functionality or reduce its effectiveness. In reality, accessible design enhances usability for all users, including those with disabilities.

  Features like keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and clear visual contrast improve the overall user experience, making the website easier to navigate and use for everyone.

Making a Powerful Request for Proposal for the Redesign of an Accessible Website

Crafting a comprehensive and well-structured Request for Proposal (RFP) is pivotal for the successful redesign of a website that prioritizes accessibility. This document serves as a guide for potential vendors, outlining your specific requirements and expectations for an inclusive digital experience.

Clearly stating your commitment to adhering to WCAG 2.1 AA standards ensures that your accessibility goals are effectively communicated in the RFP. This demonstrates your organization’s dedication to providing equal access to all users.

Detailed Accessibility Requirements

Beyond stating adherence to WCAG standards, it’s crucial to delve into the specific accessibility needs of your target audience. Identify and describe the various disabilities you aim to accommodate, such as visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.

Providing this level of detail enables potential vendors to tailor their proposals to your exact needs. Emphasize the importance of thorough testing, including both automated and manual assessments, to ensure that accessibility remains a focal point throughout the project.

Key Components to Include in Your RFP

• Accessibility Metrics and KPIs: Establish clear accessibility metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of the redesign. This might include specific benchmarks for user experience, navigation ease, and content accessibility.
• Training and Support: Define your expectations for the training that your staff will receive from the vendor. This should cover best practices for maintaining accessibility and ensuring that all future content updates comply with accessibility standards.
• Accessibility Statement: Request that vendors create a clear and concise accessibility statement for the redesigned website. This statement should outline the measures taken to ensure accessibility and serve as a commitment to ongoing compliance.
• User Testing and Feedback: Highlight the importance of involving users with disabilities in the testing phase. Collecting feedback from real users can provide invaluable insights into the effectiveness of the accessibility features.
• Maintenance and Updates: Specify the need for ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure the website remains accessible as standards evolve and new content is added. This might include regular audits and adjustments based on user feedback.
• Technology and Tools: Detail any preferred technologies or tools that should be used to enhance accessibility. This could include screen readers, voice recognition software, or other assistive technologies.

Building Confidence in Accessibility Commitment

By incorporating these elements into your RFP, you demonstrate a robust commitment to accessibility and attract vendors who share this dedication. This comprehensive approach ensures the redesigned website exceeds accessibility standards, providing a seamless and inclusive experience for all users.

Adhering to these guidelines will help you create an RFP that not only draws in skilled vendors but also underscores your organization’s commitment to accessibility.

This, in turn, fosters confidence that the project will be executed with a strong focus on creating an accessible digital environment tailored to your company’s needs.

Utilizing an Accessibility Perspective to Evaluate Proposals from Vendors

Selecting the right vendor for your accessible website redesign is a critical decision that can significantly impact your project’s success. When evaluating proposals, prioritize submissions that demonstrate a deep understanding of accessibility compliance.

Look for vendors that present a comprehensive accessibility strategy, including rigorous testing methods and ongoing support. A strong proposal will highlight the vendor’s experience in creating accessible websites, supported by real-world examples and case studies.

Their accessibility testing procedures should align with the WCAG to ensure your website meets both legal requirements and user needs.

Key Aspects to Consider:

• Proven Expertise in Accessibility Projects

  Ensure the vendor has a track record of successfully delivering accessible websites. Look for case studies or testimonials that validate their experience and expertise.

• Comprehensive Accessibility Strategy:

  The vendor should provide a detailed plan outlining testing, remediation, and ongoing support. This strategy should cover the entire project lifecycle, from initial design to post-launch maintenance.

• Testing Methodology:
  Confirm that the vendor uses appropriate tools and adheres to WCAG guidelines. Their testing should include both automated and manual methods to ensure thorough evaluation.

• Ongoing Support and Training:

  Post-launch support is crucial to maintain accessibility standards. The vendor should offer training for your team to ensure they can manage and maintain the website’s accessibility.

• Customer Testimonials:

  Positive feedback from previous clients can provide reassurance about the vendor’s capabilities and reliability.

Ensuring Success Throughout the Project

Creating an accessible website requires a collaborative effort involving design, development, and quality assurance. Integrating accessibility from the outset is essential for efficiency and effectiveness.

• 1. The Design Stage

  The foundation for an accessible website is laid during the design phase. Focus on user experience for all users by emphasizing color contrast, font readability, and keyboard navigation. An accessibility consultant can offer valuable insights to ensure designs comply with WCAG guidelines and are visually appealing.

• 2. The Development Phase

  Technical implementation is crucial for accessibility. Developers should use semantic HTML, ARIA elements, and responsive design principles. Regular testing throughout development helps identify and address issues early. While automated testing tools are useful, manual testing by an accessibility expert is vital to uncover complex accessibility barriers.

• 3. Quality Assurance Testing

  Thorough testing is the final milestone before launch. Comprehensive accessibility testing should accompany functional and performance testing. Manual testing with screen readers assesses how visually impaired users interact with the site. Combining automated and manual testing methods ensures a complete evaluation of accessibility compliance.

After-Launch Accessibility: An Ongoing Commitment

Redesigning your website is just the beginning; the real work of maintaining accessibility starts after the launch. Ensuring your site remains accessible requires continuous dedication and effort.

In addition to technical updates, fostering an inclusive culture within your organization can further enhance accessibility efforts. Encourage feedback from users with disabilities and involve them in your testing process. This real-world input can provide invaluable insights and help you address accessibility issues more effectively.

It’s crucial to provide your content team with comprehensive accessibility training to ensure all material adheres to WCAG guidelines. Regular automated testing is essential to identify and resolve issues, but for thorough assessments, manual testing by accessibility experts is indispensable.

Are YOU ready to create a website that welcomes everyone and delivers results?

Our team of web development and accessibility experts at ADA Site Compliance will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your website redesign promotes inclusion, enhances user experience, and positions your business as a leader in digital accessibility.

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