When developing a website, it is very easy to focus purely on getting the required features out the door. Let me go over reasons why we should stop and think about why we want make the site accessible, too.

Legal Reasons

There are standards for accessibility that should be followed. By following them, we not only contribute to the Web being accessible consistently but we can avoid legal implications. Many countries are basing their policies on these standards and in some cases, inaccessible websites might get a fine.

Drive Innovation

Accessibility features in products and services often solve unanticipated problems. Innovations like the typewriter, telephone, punch cards, text to speech, email, and voice controls were initially meant to include those with a disability. All of those have found a much broader application since then.

Brand Enhancement

Diversity and inclusion efforts are accelerated with a clear, well-integrated accessibility commitment. A clear commitment to accessibility can demonstrate that a business has a genuine sense of Corporate Social Responsibility. This can enhance brand image and reputation, increase sales and customer loyalty and improve workforce diversity.

Increase Market Reach

About 15% of the world's population have some form of disability. As the population ages, many more acquire disability while not identifying as a "person with a disability". Research shows that up to 71% of disabled people walk away from making a purchase because they are unable or unwilling to do so.

Empathy

We should aim to make the Web an accessible place so we can provide equal opportunities for everyone. We also never know when we find ourselves in a place where we need to access an accessible site.

Making a website accessible is good for business. It should be made a priority for companies as there are not only sales on the line but also their reputation.