Why Accessibility
Matters
Test your website continuously with Squidler, and actively solve accessibility issues that are found, and feel safe that you are not excluding potential customers from your website.
What is Accessibility and A11Y Testing?
Accessibility, sometimes called A11Y, testing involves validating websites and applications to make sure they are usable by individuals with disabilities, including those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive challenges. Developers and testers need to rigorously assess the product to ensure it meets recognized accessibility standards and regulations, such as WCAG Compliance, to address any accessibility concerns.
The goal of accessibility testing is to make sure that your website is useful and accessible for as many people as possible.
Accessibility ensures compliance, expands reach and boosts brand value
Why is it important to test for accessibility?
Accessibility testing includes several crucial areas to ensure websites are usable by everyone, including those with disabilities. One significant area of focus is testing colour contrast, where the visual presentation of text and images of text has a contrast ratio high enough for users with visual impairments to perceive the content easily, in line with WCAG standards.
Another critical area is the provision of text alternatives for non-text content. This enables screen readers to describe images and other visual elements through alt text or aria-labels, making the content accessible to those who cannot see the images.
Testing also involves the application of Accessible Rich Internet Applications (ARIA) standards, which help make web content and applications more accessible. This includes assigning accurate roles and attributes to interactive elements such as buttons and form fields, enhancing functionality for screen reader users.
Additionally, ensuring keyboard accessibility is vital. This includes making sure that all interactive elements of a website or application can be navigated and activated using the keyboard alone, typically through the use of the “Tab” key and other shortcuts. This feature is essential for users who cannot use a mouse or touch screen effectively.
By addressing these varied aspects, accessibility testing aims to remove barriers and create a more inclusive digital environment.
Why is accessibility important for your business?
Accessibility testing is crucial for businesses as it ensures that digital platforms are usable by everyone, including the estimated 1.3 billion individuals worldwide who live with significant disabilities.
This commitment to accessibility is not just a matter of ethical responsibility but also offers practical benefits.
Legal Implications
This means that users must be able to perceive the information being presented; it cannot be invisible to all of their senses.
Expanding Market Reach
As populations age, with an expected 16% of people worldwide being over 65 by 2050, the demand for accessible digital services will continue to grow. Businesses that prioritize accessibility can capture a wider audience, including those with disabilities and the elderly, potentially increasing user engagement and fostering sustainable growth.
Enhancing Brand Value
Prioritizing accessibility reflects a company’s dedication to inclusivity and social responsibility, positively influencing its brand image. Companies recognized for their commitment to equality and accessibility are often viewed more favorably by consumers, partners, and potential employees.
In summary, focusing on accessibility testing is essential for businesses to ensure compliance, extend their market reach, and enhance their brand value, all while upholding the principles of equality and inclusion