May 16th is Global Accessibility Day, a day dedicated to promoting the importance of digital accessibility. At Code Savvy, we believe that technology, and the skills needed to create with it, should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Let’s explore why web and mobile application accessibility is so important.

An illustration of a black man in a wheelchair and a child in his lap with a balloon with the words "Accessibility should be a necessity, not a nice to have." above them with a purple background.

Why Accessibility Matters

Imagine trying to use a website or a mobile app that you can’t see or hear properly. For many people with disabilities, this is a daily challenge. Accessibility ensures that everyone, including people with visual, auditory, or cognitive disabilities, can use technology easily and effectively.

Key Benefits of Accessibility

  • Improves User Experience: When websites and apps are accessible, they are easier for everyone to use, not just people with disabilities. Clear text, simple navigation, and descriptive links benefit all users.
  • Boosts SEO: Accessibility aids Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Search engines love well-organized, accessible content, making it easier for people to find your website. As well, in the age of AI-powered web search engines (Bing, ChatGPT, etc.) Artificial Intelligence Optimization (AIO) is similarly affected by good accessibility practices.
  • Expands Market Reach: Accessible websites can reach a larger audience, including older adults and people with temporary disabilities, like a broken arm.
  • Legal Compliance: Many places, including California and New York, are updating laws to ensure businesses comply with accessibility standards. Globally, it’s becoming essential to meet these standards to avoid legal issues.

The Current State of Web Accessibility

Did you know that 96.3% of the top million homepages fail to meet ADA standards?

On average, each of these sites has about 50 barriers to accessibility. This means millions of people face difficulties accessing critical information and services online. How well would you be able to navigate today’s world if you didn’t have access to information on the internet?

How We Can Make a Difference?

Here are some easy ways that you can ensure better accessibility in your digital projects:

  • Using Alt Text: Add descriptive text to images so screen readers can convey the information to visually impaired users.
  • Keyboard Navigation: Ensuring that your site can be navigated using a keyboard alone, making it accessible for those who can’t use a mouse.
  • Clear Structure: Organize all of your content with headings and subheadings to help users and search engines understand our content better.

Get Involved!

Join us in celebrating Global Accessibility Day by learning more about digital accessibility. Whether you’re building a website, creating an app, or simply using technology, remember that accessibility benefits everyone. Let’s make the digital world inclusive for all!

For more information, please check out the Accessibility sections at W3 Schools: https://www.w3schools.com/accessibility/accessibility_intro.php

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