Beyond the ethical reasoning, the business case for accessibility is undeniably strong. Accessible websites can tap into the spending power of over 1 billion people worldwide living with disabilities, estimated at $1.2 trillion annually according to the World Bank.
The Immediate Benefits
Businesses with accessible websites will see a number of immediate benefits:
- Improved SEO rankings.
- Broader market reach.
- Reduced legal risks.
- Higher customer retention and revenue.
Improved SEO and Digital Performance
Accessible websites are not only user-friendly but also search engine-friendly. Techniques used to improve accessibility align with search engine optimisation (SEO) best practices. According to Moz, websites with cleaner, accessible code often rank higher in search results, driving more traffic and boosting visibility.
For example, captioned videos, which aid people with hearing impairments, are also invaluable for users watching content without sound and are indexed by search engines, improving discoverability. This dual benefit means that accessibility investments enhance both usability and marketing outcomes.
Legal Compliance and Risk Reduction
Lawsuits related to digital accessibility are on the rise. In the United States alone, over 4,000 web accessibility lawsuits were filed in 2022 under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), according to UsableNet. Failure to comply with legal requirements not only risks hefty fines but can also harm a company’s reputation.
By proactively adopting accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), businesses can mitigate legal risks and demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity. This not only protects against litigation but builds trust with customers and stakeholders.
Enhanced Customer Loyalty and Brand Value
Customers notice when businesses prioritise accessibility. According to a report by the Center for Inclusive Design, inclusive practices can significantly boost customer satisfaction. The report highlights that companies adopting accessible design often see increased retention rates and stronger customer loyalty.
In a competitive marketplace, these loyalty benefits can be a game-changer. Customers who feel valued are more likely to return, recommend your brand, and leave positive reviews. Accessible businesses often gain a reputation for social responsibility, further enhancing brand equity.
Operational Efficiency and Scalability
I have been approached so many times by companies and organisations looking to “Tack on” accessible features to their existing site. Many go down the WordPress accessibility plugin route which can improve things in the short-term, but this never fully addresses the issue. Ideally companies need to embrace accessibility from the start for operational efficiency and longer-term scalability. This approach will reduce the need for costly redesigns or retrofits in the future and ultimately saves time and money.
Inclusive Design Increases Customer Satisfaction
Reports from the Center for Inclusive Design show that inclusive design practices can improve usability for all users, with 62% of organisations reporting increased customer satisfaction after implementing accessibility changes.
It’s a win-win for Companies and Consumers
The business case for accessibility is clear: it’s a win-win for companies and consumers alike. From tapping into a vast market of users with disabilities to improving SEO, reducing legal risks, and fostering innovation, the economic benefits are undeniable. By prioritising accessibility, you will not only fulfil your ethical responsibilities but position yourself for sustainable growth and success.
Accessible WordPress Design & Build
Love WordPress and want to have accessibility integrated into your site from the start, I can get you there. Get in touch! I am an experienced freelance WordPress developer.
