As dependence on the internet has increased for consumers to obtain information, products, and services, many countries have incorporated web accessibility into existing civil rights legislation that protects people with disabilities. The US DOJ first interpreted ADA rules to apply to websites 20 years ago. In 2018, the DOJ clarified that websites are considered places of public accommodation and must comply with ADA Title III. In 2022, the DOJ reaffirmed this ruling and recommended WCAG 2.1 AA as the best practice.
Sadly 98% of websites are still not ADA compliant. If that 98% includes your company site, 20% of our population can’t navigate, experience, or shop on your site. Accessibility is good for everyone, good for business, and legal requirement.
Users with disabilities or neurological conditions like visual impairment, seizures, color blindness, attention disorders, cognitive disorders, or others need the same products and services as the rest of our population. Proper accessibility solutions allow equal access and prevent you from leaving 20% of your market out of your business from the start.
Accessibility Made Easy with AI Integrations
Our team has partnered with accessiBe, the industry leader and pioneer of an AI-powered solution called accessWidget. It’s a cost-efficient software solution that automates the process of making your site accessible and compliant. Here are 4 major benefits:
- Cost Effective Mitigation of Legal Risk: An accessible website can be achieved with no time investment and only $49/month. That investment can and save you a lot of time and money spent settling potential lawsuits. In 2021, the number of web-related lawsuits in the U.S. saw a 320% increase over the previous eight years; an average settlement costs about $30,000 for a small business.
- Optimize Your Website’s Reach: Making your website accessible for up to 20% of the population who are an under-served and loyal consumers is a win in itself. It also helps you enhance your search visibility and reduce bounce rates.
- It’s the Right Thing to Do: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts include disabled persons. Accessibility is a constitutional right, and brands that prioritize it send a positive message that they care about all members of their communities.
- Investing in Accessibility can earn Annual Tax Credits: Businesses, especially small businesses, can earn some of your accessibility costs back through ADA tax credits. (Typically 30% to 50%, depending on your investment.)
Sisi’s User Story
What Does it Cost?
Our solution is just $49/month. Or, if you prefer, you can get 2 months free by paying annually at $490/year. Installation is free and there is a free trial is available, if you want to give it a test drive. We want our clients to be empowered to serve all abilities and protected from litigation. If you have questions – or are ready to ensure your site is ADA compliant – give us a call at 910.938.4319 or contact us by email. We’re happy to help.
