Understanding ADA Compliance for Websites

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The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990 to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensure they have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in mainstream society. While originally applied to physical spaces, the scope of the ADA has expanded to include digital spaces, making website accessibility a critical consideration for businesses and organizations. 

Who Needs an ADA-Compliant Website? 

Essentially, ADA compliance for websites applies broadly to any business or public entity that operates for the benefit of the public or falls under Title I (businesses that operate 20 or more weeks per year with at least 15 full-time employees) or Title III (public accommodations and commercial facilities) of the ADA. This includes, but is not limited to: 

• E-commerce stores 

• Educational institutions 

• Financial institutions 

• Healthcare organizations 

• Government agencies 

• Nonprofits 

If your organization's website plays a crucial role in operations or public services, staying ADA-compliant is essential to avoiding potential legal issues. 

How to Make Your Website ADA Compliant 

Achieving ADA compliance involves several key steps and considerations to ensure your website is accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Here's how you can do it: 

1. Understand Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG):  

   
   

The WCAG provides widely accepted guidelines and success criteria for making web content more accessible. Familiarize yourself with the latest version, WCAG 2.1, and aim for at least AA-level compliance. 

2. Perform a Website Audit:  

Evaluate your website against the WCAG criteria. Automated tools can perform a preliminary accessibility check, but a comprehensive audit typically necessitates manual testing by accessibility experts or individuals with disabilities. 

3. Implement Changes:  

Based on the audit findings, make necessary changes to your website. This might include adjusting visual elements (like color contrast and font size), ensuring your site has keyboard-friendly navigation, adding alternative text for images, adding captions to video content, and more. 

4. Continuous Monitoring and Training:  

Website compliance is not a one-time task, your business must monitor your site for new content or updates to ensure ongoing compliance. Additionally, training your web development and content teams on accessibility best practices is crucial. 

5. Consult with Experts:  

Consider partnering with accessibility consultants or services that specialize in ADA compliance. They can provide expertise and support in navigating the complexities of making your website accessible to everyone. 

The Importance of ADA Compliance 

Making your website ADA-compliant is not just about avoiding legal risks; it's about embracing inclusivity and ensuring everyone has equal access to your services and information online. By prioritizing accessibility, you enhance user experience, expand your customer base, and demonstrate your commitment to corporate social responsibility. 

For organizations aiming to thrive in the digital age, ADA compliance is an essential component of an inclusive, forward-thinking web strategy. 

Want more information on ADA-complaint sites? Contact the Bran Marketing team at info@getbran.com.