Making websites these days is important because it is one of the ways in promoting products, brands, and providing information. But making a website is not just about registering a portal name, designing it to be catchy, and putting content. It must pass the requirements and go through an adacompliancepros.com website.
Under the Americans with Disability Act of 1990 which has been revised to include information technology, websites must be ADA compliant. It means that the website must not discriminate against anyone with disabilities. Some websites have been sued by people because it did not follow the requirements as stated in the law and has caused some legal expenses from both parties.
According to a study by Pew Research posted back in 2017, about a third of a quarter of Americans with disabilities are using the internet. But those with disabilities going to websites that might not be friendly for them may have some difficulty reading or even manipulating the mouse or computer.
As a business owner or someone about to create a website, how do you test if the product is compliant? Here are some ways to test it.
- Test the website both automated and manually. One of the best ways to make sure if the website is compliant and up and running is to do a series of tests. A lot of ADA website checkers recommend doing it manually. The manual audit basically involves checking each page of the website with the help of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The WCAG is a checklist that is the basis for ADA compliance.
- Make use of free online tools. There are several online tools that can be used to check if the website is following the requirements. Examples of the tools that can be used are WAVE, Lighthouse, and those listed under the World Wide Web Consortium.
- Check the color contrast of your website. Are the colors suitable for the eyes? Are they blinding you when you open it? Make sure that does not clash and cause some surprise to the reader. After all, the last thing you need is colors that are not working and just causing some eyesight problems.
- Check images and texts if they are configured properly. Images must have a text alternative since some of those accessing the internet cannot see properly. Some of those who access use a screen reader or other types of technology that can help them understand what is online.
- WordPress users, you can install ADA compliance plug-in. For those who are using WordPress, there are several plugins that you can use to make your site compliant. Some of the recommended tools are Accessibility Suite by Online ADA and WP Accessibility Helper.
- The website can be controlled by a keyboard. As stated in some past entries, there will be some people who may have disabilities or motor skill problems and have difficulty in using the mouse. By using the basics from the keyboard, it will allow them to manipulate and navigate the website.
- The website gives users time limit control. Under the WCAG checklist, the content should allow users to pause the move of animating objects, can also give the option to adjust the time, extend it or disable it except for the real-time events.
- The websites allow feedback. This will give the website creators a chance to check with their readers if they spotted errors, mistakes, or elements that are out of place. It also allows them to give suggestions in making the website better.
- Involve your website creators in the building of the website. If you are doing a business and need professional help then it’s best to consult with your website creators. They after all know what is best when it comes to putting everything together. But make sure you always have your inputs and give them the feedback that you’ve received. Also, make sure that they are aware of the audience you are catering to who may have some difficulties that they are not aware of.
- Consult an ADA-compliant agency. If you have money to spend on it, go to a reliable agency who can check if everything you put together is perfect. Make sure to get someone who has been doing it for a long time because you might be working with someone whose credibility is questionable.
With these steps, you are away from all the trouble. Always remember, when in doubt, always check reliable sources online or seek the help of a professional.
