FireStarter Media Group :: Supercharged Web Site, Graphical and Interaction Design Consultants :: Introduction To Accessibility :: Web Site Designers, Programmers, Builders and Coders

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Is Your Site Accessible?

The Internet is evolving with new technologies constantly being developed all the time. However, in the search for more impressive web sites, the ever-present issue of accessibility is often forgotten.

What is an accessible web site?

An accessible web site is one that can be used by persons with disabilities. In the context of the Internet, this generally means that the web site or application should be compatible with access aids and should be able to transform itself into a needed format.

What types of disabilities are there?

There are four types of disabilities: visual, cognitive/learning, physical and auditory disabilities.

  1. A person with a visual impairment has trouble accessing content on the Web without the aid of software to read the text aloud to them.
  2. A person with a cognitive or learning disability can benefit from the use of screen readers to present the text in a more understandable way.
  3. A person with physical mobility impairment may not have the motor skills necessary to operate a mouse and must rely on the keyboard to navigate the site.
  4. A person with a hearing impairment may be unable to access any audio content, so that information needs to be available in a visual format.

In the UK alone there are over 2 million visually impaired people that may not be able to access the information on your web site. Can you afford to lose these potential customers?

Did you know about web site accessibility?

Many companies do not consider accessibility simply because they do not know about it. But did you know you could face legal proceedings if you haven't taken reasonable steps to make your web site accessible?

So what can you do?

You need to make your web site accessible. If you don't want to waste money or haven't got enough time then you are losing out to your competitors. Why risk facing legal proceedings and losing customers by not having your web site available to all? And remember, accessibile doesn't just mean for disabled people; it also means for different Internet browsers on different Computer Operating Systems.

I specialise in the web and can help you create a fully accessible web though the use of valid XHTML 1.1 and CSS. Interested? You should be. To talk to me about your requirements, discuss a quote or ask for further advice and information, please contact Firestarter Media Group via the online form or email Firestarter Media Group on hello@firestartermedia.com.

Developer's Links

Below is a list of some good resources when it comes to making a web site accessible:

To talk to me about your requirements, discuss a quote or ask for further advice and information, please contact Firestarter Media Group via the online form or email Firestarter Media Group on hello@firestartermedia.com.



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