Web Accessibility: A discussion on the importance of web accessibility

Why Website Accessibility Matters (and Why It’s Good for Everyone)

I’ve been immersed in the world of website accessibility recently while studying for my Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) certification. This journey has been incredibly insightful, revealing just how many people face challenges with poorly designed websites and how achievable it is to create a better, more inclusive user experience.

We often think of accessibility as something that only benefits people with disabilities. However, an accessible website improves usability for everyone. Consider the frustration of using a website in bright sunlight, straining to read tiny text, or struggling with a slow-loading page and malfunctioning buttons. These are all examples of poor accessibility, and they impact all users, regardless of ability.

What Does It Mean to Have an Accessible Website?

In essence, accessible web design means building websites that everyone can use, whether they are navigating with a keyboard, screen reader, or simply their phone on a less-than-ideal WiFi connection. It involves:

Readable Text: Ensuring adequate contrast between text and background.
Alt Text for Images: Providing descriptive alt text so that screen readers can accurately convey image content.
Keyboard Accessibility: Making sure all functionalities are accessible via keyboard navigation.
Clear and Simple Language: Writing in a straightforward manner to avoid jargon and enhance comprehension.

These adjustments not only help people with visual impairments, dyslexia, or mobility issues but also enhance usability for older adults, non-native English speakers, and anyone short on time.

Why Should Businesses Care About Accessibility?

Many businesses overlook accessibility until they realise the potential cost. If a website is difficult to use, visitors are unlikely to stay. In the UK, the "Purple Pound"—the spending power of disabled people—is estimated to be worth £274 billion annually. Failing to create an accessible website essentially means turning away a significant customer base.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) also benefits from good accessibility. Google ranks accessible websites higher because they tend to be faster, better structured, and easier to navigate. Simply put, improved accessibility leads to better search rankings and increased traffic.

There are also legal considerations. The Equality Act 2010 in the UK requires businesses to make “reasonable adjustments” for disabled users. Meanwhile, in the US, companies are increasingly facing lawsuits over inaccessible websites. Ensuring accessibility not only protects your brand legally but also strengthens its reputation.

An Accessible Website is More Sustainable

An often overlooked advantage of accessible websites is their environmental impact. Because accessible websites are typically:

Faster to Load: Using less data and therefore less energy.
Efficiently Structured: Minimising unnecessary processing power.
Easy to Navigate: Reducing the time users spend searching for information.

Since the internet’s carbon footprint is comparable to that of the airline industry, optimising websites for accessibility can significantly contribute to lower energy consumption and reduced CO₂ emissions.

Small Changes, Big Impact

The most encouraging aspect of web accessibility is that small changes can make a big difference. Adding descriptive alt text, using clear headings, and ensuring that links are contextually meaningful (e.g., avoiding vague phrases like “Click here”) are all simple yet impactful adjustments.

If you’re developing a new website, it’s even easier to plan for accessibility from the start—ensuring the site is inclusive from day one.

The Bottom Line? Accessibility Benefits Everyone

Creating an accessible website isn’t merely a matter of compliance or social responsibility. It’s also good for business, enhances SEO, and reduces environmental impact. Most importantly, it ensures that all users can engage with your content and services.

If you’re unsure where to begin, a website accessibility audit can identify issues and recommend quick fixes. When a website works for everyone, everyone wins.

Further Reading & Useful Links

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) – The international standard for web accessibility.
Equality Act 2010 (UK) – Legal requirements for accessibility in the UK.
CPACC Certification – Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies.

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