Today, digital and document accessibility is more than a requirement; it’s a necessity. More and more, as we rely on digital documents and websites for communication, commerce, and information, ensuring inclusivity is not just a legal obligation… it is also a strategic advantage. Let’s delve into the top five compelling reasons why prioritizing accessibility for your company’s digital documents and websites is a path to success.
1. Legal Compliance: Avoid Costly Litigation
Ensuring digital document and website accessibility isn’t just about goodwill; it is a legal mandate. Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, AODA in Ontario, Canada (AODA) and the European Accessibility Act (Directive 2019/882), as examples, use the framework and guidance of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to make accessible digital content a necessity. Non-compliance can result in costly lawsuits, fines, and damage to your brand and the reputation of your organization.
2. Expanding Your Audience: Tap into a Wider Market
By making your digital content accessible, in effect, you widen your organization’s digital front doors to a much broader audience. People with disabilities represent a significant portion of the population (estimated at 20-25%) and have immense purchasing power and collective influence. And, by accommodating their needs, you not only enhance their experience but also gain potential customers, ultimately boosting your market share.
3. Enhancing User Experience: Improve Customer Loyalty
Accessible digital documents and websites create a positive user experience for everyone. This includes not only individuals with disabilities but also those using various devices and screen sizes. When users find your content easy to navigate and consume, they’re more likely to return, engage, and recommend your brand.
4. Bolstering SEO: Boost Your Visibility
Search engines like Google reward websites that prioritize accessibility. Properly tagged images, structured content, and mobile-friendly designs, which are essential for accessibility, also improve search engine optimization (SEO). This means that accessible content not only reaches a wider audience but also ranks higher in search results, driving more organic traffic to your website.
5. Demonstrating Social Responsibility: Build a Positive Brand Image
Inclusion, diversity, and social responsibility are core values for many organizations. By championing accessibility, you showcase your commitment to these principles. Customers, clients, and partners appreciate and respect brands that prioritize inclusivity, leading to stronger relationships and a positive brand image.
In conclusion, the benefits of prioritizing digital document accessibility and website accessibility are multifaceted. You not only ensure legal compliance and mitigate risks but also tap into a larger market, enhance user experiences, improve SEO, and build a positive brand image. Prioritizing accessibility isn’t just a choice; it’s a strategic move that paves the way for success in the digital landscape. Remember: Digital and document accessibility is more than a requirement.
Don’t wait; start your accessibility journey today and unlock the full potential of your digital presence. Pop by at https://cdpcom.com to check out our offerings for digital and document accessibility. No matter the size or the scope of making your digital front doors and content accessible and compliant, we have a solution for you.
Reach out to today! Give us a shout at ua@cdpcom.com and let’s chat!
