Accessibility on the Web
What is an accessible website?
An accessible website allows users with disabilities (e.g. visual, auditory or mobility impairment) to access content and services. The way a website is designed and built can have a large impact on its accessibility. An good example of enabling accessibility is ensuring that software (Screen Readers) for visually impaired users can correctly read content on a web page.
Is your website accessible?
If it is not then you could now have legal action taken against you.
The UK Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 2.2 (p7) states:
"The Disability Discrimination Act makes it unlawful for a service provider to discriminate against a disabled person by refusing to provide any service which it provides to members of the public."
The act also states that it applies to websites, see 5.23 (p71) and 5.26 (p68).
How to you comply?
Although the DDA does not go into any specifics about accessibility for websites, its generally considered that a website should follow guidelines set out by the internet's governing body, the W3C. These guidelines include three priority levels and websites must meet Priority 1 as a minimum. UK sites such as government, council and education websites are generally required to meet Priority 2.
How can Gravitywell help?
Due to our extensive experience in building websites for the public sector, Gravitywell can help ensure that your website meets the appropriate guidelines with minimal compromise on design and project time scales.
© Gravitywell 2008