The need for inclusive web design

Why does accessibility matter?

Web accessibility refers to the design and creation of websites, applications, and digital products that are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive disabilities. Accessibility also makes digital products more usable for everyone, regardless of ability.

1. Providing equal access to everyone
   Web accessibility is about ensuring that everyone has equal access to information and services, regardless of their abilities. It's about creating a more inclusive world where everyone is empowered to participate fully in the digital world.
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2. Promoting usability
   Accessibility not only makes websites more usable for people with disabilities but for everyone. It leads to better user experience and increased satisfaction for all users.
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3. Doing the right thing
   Creating accessible digital products is simply the right thing to do. Everyone deserves equal access to information and services, and it's our responsibility to make it possible.
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4. Financial gain
   Making your website accessible can improve search engine optimization, increase website usability, and result in cost savings. When done from the start it’s usually easier, less expensive, and more effective than fixing an existing site later.

European law

In Europe, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) outline the legal requirements for accessible websites. In theory, ignoring these guidelines can result in legal consequences. Although these events do not occur all too often, a case going to court does highlight the importance of web accessibility and demonstrates that organizations and businesses can be held legally responsible for failing to make their websites accessible.

‍Case of Staatloterij
A Dutch court ruled in 2020 that the national lottery website was inaccessible to people with disabilities, violating the Dutch Disability Discrimination Act. The company was ordered to make the website accessible and pay a fine of €20,000 per day if it did not comply within six months.

Case of H&M
Another example is the case of H&M, which was sued by a visually impaired customer for failing to make its website accessible. The case was settled out of court, and H&M agreed to make its website accessible to people with disabilities.

Who benefits

Web accessibility benefits everyone. It creates a more inclusive society and a better user experience for all. It also makes financial sense, as accessible websites are more likely to attract and retain customers.

How's your website performing?
Check your website's accessibility score with tools like Siteimprove. The New Story website scores 83/100. This means we meet accessibility standards, though not to perfection. In our case the designer team has chosen to prioritize branding over meeting strict contrast ratio requirements.

Accessibility is a matter of usability

Designing for accessibility requires a comprehensive understanding of the needs of people with disabilities and the techniques and technologies used to make digital products accessible. At New Story, we recognize the importance of user interface and user experience design (UI & UX) in making products accessible. That's why we have a team of UX & UI experts with the skills and knowledge to create accessible and usable digital products.

Learn more

At New Story, we believe in creating a more accessible digital world for everyone. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your website or digital product more accessible and usable for all.