What is Website Accessibility?
Most folks think “website accessibility” is the practice of making websites accessible for users with disabilities. And while that’s technically correct, it’s only a fraction of the answer.
Instead, website accessibility is the practice of making websites accessible for as many users as possible.
Why prioritize website accessibility?
Today, accessibility is a crucial for any organization. Having an accessible website reduces barriers for users and promotes equality, making sure content is available to everyone. This cultivates a positive brand image and allow you to tap into a larger market
It’s generally accepted that 20% of people have some form of disability. While it’s a huge number, that percentage doesn’t take into account people with short-term disabilities (like a broken arm) or the significant increase in our aging population.
In short, improving accessibility for disabled populations will benefit everyone’s digital experience. And it will also improve your bottom line.
The business case for website accessibility
Better web accessibility can boost business outcomes in three main ways:
Mitigating risk: Increasingly, web accessibility is regulated by government bodies. In many parts of the world, inaccessible digital experiences can lead to hefty fines.
Increasing income: Did you know 69% of disabled users abandon a site when they find it’s not accessible? For ecommerce sites, that drop translates directly to lost revenue.
Decreasing expenses: When it’s easier for people to find what they’re looking for, your customer success team will spend less time fielding support requests.
Tips for improving website accessibility
To learn more about how to improve your website accessibility, check out these resources:
- Website Accessibility Standards for Businesses
- How to Prep Your Site for the European Accessibility Act 2025
- BigWP talk on website accessibility from Taeke Reijenga, CEO of Level Level, a Netherlands-based design and development agency with an emphasis on ecommerce and web accessibility: