Breaking Barriers: How Inclusive Web Design Can Benefit Cornwall Businesses
Inclusivity and diversity are essential values that should be reflected in all aspects of society, including website design. Creating an inclusive website can significantly benefit Cornwall businesses by breaking barriers and making their services accessible to all.
This blog post will explore the importance of inclusive web design and how Sanders Design can help your business achieve it.
Why Inclusive Website Design Matters
Inclusive web design refers to the practice of designing and developing websites that can be accessed and used by everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This includes individuals with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments, as well as those who use assistive technologies such as screen readers, keyboard-only navigation, or voice recognition software.
It matters because it guarantees that all users have equal access to information and services provided on a website. This is not only a moral and ethical responsibility but also a legal one. The Equality Act 2010 in the UK and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US, require that all businesses provide equal access to their goods and services, including their websites.
By creating an inclusive website, you can expand your customer base and reach new markets. You’ll also improve user experience and customer satisfaction, leading to increased engagement and conversions.
Tips for Creating an Inclusive Website
Use Alt Text and Descriptive Captions
Alt text is a short description of an image that appears when the image fails to load or when a user hovers over the image. Descriptive captions can also be used to provide additional information about an image. Including alt text and descriptive captions allows visually impaired users to understand the content and context of the image, ensuring that they are not excluded from any information.
Provide Keyboard Navigation
Some users are unable to use a mouse or touch screen to navigate a website and rely solely on their keyboard. Providing keyboard navigation ensures that these users can easily navigate through the website, access all content and complete tasks.
Use Clear and Simple Language
Using clear and simple language benefits all users, but especially those with cognitive impairments or learning disabilities. Avoid using jargon, technical language, or complex sentences that could be confusing. Use simple and concise sentences that convey the intended message clearly.
Ensure Colour Contrast
Colour contrast is essential for users with visual impairments, colour blindness, or those who view the website on a low-resolution screen. Make sure that there is enough contrast between the text and background colour to make the content legible.
How Sanders Design Can Help
At Sanders Design, we understand the importance of inclusive website design and strive to create websites that are accessible to all. We use the latest design standards and guidelines to ensure that our websites are inclusive and follow legal requirements.
Our expert web designers and developers can work with you to create a website that meets your business goals and caters to all users. We’ll conduct an accessibility audit of your website, identify any accessibility issues, and make the necessary changes to ensure that your website is inclusive.
Conclusion
Creating an inclusive website design is the right thing to do. It can also benefit your Cornwall business by reaching a wider audience and improving user experience. By following these tips and working with a professional web designer like Sanders Design, you can ensure your website is accessible to all users. Contact us today to learn more about our web design services and how we can help you create an inclusive website.
