Web Accessibility
We create accessible websites
With focus on accessibility, you can be confident that your website is usable by all.
Our mission at CES focuses on building and enhancing capacity and access for vulnerable students who have unique and individualized needs. In that spirit, our web development approach is committed to presenting information in such a way that anyone can access it – regardless of any situational limitations or disabilities they may have.
Why is web accessibility important?
With the increase of information that is available only or primarily over the web, it’s crucial to make sure that information can be accessed and used by everyone.
There are technical advantages to having an accessible website as well. An accessible website will perform better in search engines, due to its proper structure and content formatting. The costs associated with maintaining an accessible website can be lower, as standard processes and formatting reduce the need to revisit and adjust content later on, and can reduce the chances of coding and other structural errors that tend to arise as new features and functionality are added.
What is web accessibility?
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were created to provide a list of standards to adhere to in order to make sure all websites, online tools, or other web-based technologies can be used by everyone.
The guidelines include a mix of specific coding standards as well as requirements for how things should look, color contrast, whether or not to include transcriptions, and more.
Is accessibility required?
Section 504 (1973) and Section 508 (1998) of the Rehabilitation Act have required programs receiving federal funding to not discriminate against those with disabilities (intentionally or unintentionally) based on their disability status.
While these have been in place for a long time, it wasn’t until January 18, 2018, that the US Section 508 Rehabilitation Act required all federal and state based organizations (including schools) to comply with WCAG 2.0 Level A and Level AA standards. WCAG 2.1 is now also available for those that want to offer a more accessible and adaptable website early on, it is not required by law – yet.
How can I make sure my website is accessible?
- Have your website audited by an organization that specializes in web accessibility. CES has expertise in providing audits for existing sites, and provides a list of criteria that is in need of attention, along with recommendations on what your options are to address them.
- Make sure your website is tested using multiple tools as well manual methods to ensure mobile devices and screen readers can access your content.
- If you are building a new site, make sure your design and development partner specializes in accessibility.
- Provide training to your content providers and contributors about how to create accessible content and files for your site, as it grows and expands.
Are you interested in learning more about our website development services?
If so, we would be happy to answer your questions and talk with you about your project.