Website Conversion: 5 Accessibility Myths That Hurt Your Bottom Line

Frustrated with low website conversions? You're not alone. Many businesses unknowingly sabotage their success with outdated ideas about web accessibility. Let's be honest—these myths don't just hurt people with disabilities; they also cost you money. This guide will debunk five common accessibility myths that are actively preventing businesses from achieving their full conversion potential.

Why These Myths Persist

These myths often stem from a lack of awareness, the rapid evolution of web technologies, and a general underestimation of the impact of accessibility on user experience. Some businesses may view accessibility as an optional add-on, rather than a fundamental component of good web design. Others may be overwhelmed by the perceived complexity and cost of implementing accessibility features. Ignoring accessibility is not only ethically questionable but also a detriment to your business. By addressing these myths, we can foster a more inclusive and user-friendly online environment.

Myth #1: Accessibility is Only for People with Disabilities

Reality: Accessibility benefits everyone. While accessibility features are, of course, designed to help people with disabilities navigate and use websites effectively, they also improve the experience for all users.

Consider this: Approximately 15% of the world's population experiences some form of disability World Health Organization. That's a huge segment of potential customers you could be inadvertently shutting out. But accessibility features like clear navigation, alternative text for images, and keyboard navigation are useful for everyone. They improve usability for people using mobile devices in bright sunlight, those with slow internet connections, or anyone who simply prefers a more streamlined browsing experience.

"Accessibility isn't just about compliance; it's about creating a better experience for all users." - Reddit User

Myth #2: Accessibility is Expensive and Time-Consuming

Reality: While retrofitting an existing website can be costly, integrating accessibility from the start is often more efficient and cost-effective. Many accessibility features are relatively simple to implement, and the benefits far outweigh the investment. A well-designed website with accessibility in mind can actually reduce development time and costs in the long run.

Take these examples:

• Using semantic HTML: This improves website structure and is easy to implement from the start.
• Providing alt text for images: This is a simple step that greatly improves accessibility for visually impaired users and also helps with SEO.
• Ensuring sufficient color contrast: This is a quick check during the design phase.

Also, the cost of not being accessible can be significant. Lawsuits related to website accessibility are on the rise UsableNet. The cost of legal fees, settlements, and damage to brand reputation can far exceed the cost of proactive accessibility measures.

Myth #3: Accessibility Compromises Design and Aesthetics

Reality: Accessibility and good design are not mutually exclusive. In fact, accessible websites often have better design and user experiences. The principles of accessible design, such as clear navigation, sufficient color contrast, and concise content, often lead to a more user-friendly and visually appealing website.

Modern web design tools and frameworks make it easier than ever to create beautiful and accessible websites. By incorporating accessibility considerations into the design process from the beginning, you can ensure that your website is both visually appealing and usable by everyone. For example, using a clean, uncluttered layout and providing clear visual cues can enhance both aesthetics and accessibility.

"Accessibility is not a constraint; it's an opportunity to create a better user experience for everyone." - UX Design Expert

Myth #4: Accessibility is a One-Time Fix

Reality: Website accessibility is an ongoing process, not a one-time project. As your website evolves and new content is added, you must regularly review and update your accessibility features. This is especially true for eCommerce websites, which often undergo frequent changes to product pages, checkout processes, and promotional content.

Regular accessibility audits, user testing with people with disabilities, and ongoing training for your content creators and developers are essential for maintaining a truly accessible website. Automated accessibility testing tools can help identify potential issues, but they should not be the only measure you use. Human review and testing are crucial for ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach to accessibility.

Myth #5: Accessibility is All About Screen Readers

Reality: While screen readers are a critical component of web accessibility, they are only one piece of the puzzle. Accessibility encompasses a wide range of considerations, including:

• Keyboard navigation: Ensuring that all website functionality is accessible via keyboard.
• Color contrast: Providing sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
• Alternative text for images: Describing images for visually impaired users.
• Clear and consistent navigation: Making it easy for users to find what they need.
• Proper use of headings and structure: Organizing content logically for screen reader users.

Focusing solely on screen readers neglects other important aspects of accessibility, such as providing captions for videos, ensuring sufficient color contrast, and designing forms that are easy to fill out. A holistic approach to accessibility considers all users and their diverse needs.

"Accessibility is not just about screen readers; it's about creating a website that everyone can use, regardless of their abilities." - Digital Accessibility Advocate

What Actually Works

Implementing true website accessibility requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some actionable steps you can take:

1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Use a combination of automated testing tools and manual reviews to identify accessibility issues on your website. CRO Benchmark can help you identify accessibility issues.
2. Follow WCAG Guidelines: Adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure your website meets international accessibility standards.
3. Prioritize User Testing: Involve people with disabilities in the testing process to gather feedback and identify usability issues.
4. Train Your Team: Educate your content creators, designers, and developers about accessibility best practices.
5. Use Semantic HTML: Structure your website using semantic HTML elements to improve organization and readability.
6. Provide Alternative Text for Images: Write descriptive alt text for all images to describe their content.
7. Ensure Sufficient Color Contrast: Use a contrast checker to verify that text and background colors meet accessibility standards.
8. Enable Keyboard Navigation: Ensure all website functionality is accessible via keyboard navigation.
9. Provide Captions and Transcripts for Videos: Make video content accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
10. Regularly Review and Update: Accessibility is not a one-time fix. Regularly review and update your website's accessibility features.

By dispelling these myths and embracing the principles of inclusive design, you can create a website that is not only accessible but also improves user experience and boosts conversions. Accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it's a smart business strategy.

Actionable Takeaways

• Audit your website: Use tools and manual reviews to identify accessibility issues.
• Educate your team: Training is essential for consistent accessibility.
• Prioritize user testing: Get feedback from users with disabilities.
• Make it a priority: Integrate accessibility into your design and development process from the beginning.