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  • Understanding Image Alt Text Descriptions

    Understanding Image Alt Text Descriptions

    Even though digital transformation is progressing rapidly, many online businesses still lag behind in making their websites accessible to people with disabilities. This is partly due to a lack of awareness or technical knowledge of different accessibility issues and how to solve them. 

    In this article, we will cover one of the most common accessibility barriers — providing alternative text descriptions for images. When done correctly, alt text can paint a complete picture for people who cannot perceive images visually. Unfortunately, many content creators and developers forget to provide alt text or write something that doesn’t quite hit the mark. 

    So, what exactly is Image Alt Text, and how should you integrate it into your website?

    What is Alt Text?

    Image alt text, also called image alternative text descriptions, is the written copy that appears in place of an image on a website if the image fails to load on a user’s screen. This text can also help screen-reading tools describe images to visually impaired users and allows search engines to better crawl your website.

    Alt text should be brief but vivid enough to clarify the image’s content to someone listening to the description. This includes any information contained within graphs or charts. Well-written alt text doesn’t just describe a photo but also communicates its purpose and context. 

    But how do you add alt text to images?

    How to Add Alt Text to Your Images?

    Image Alt Text is the descriptive text that is included in a website’s foundational HTML code to describe an image on a webpage.  

    However, adding Alt Text to images varies slightly depending on your web-building platform. Generally, when you upload a photo, there should be an ‘Alt Text’ or ‘Alt Description’ field where you can input your description. 

    For HTML users, you can add Alt Text to an image by including the ‘alt’ attribute within the ‘img’ tag:

    <img src="example.jpg" alt="A description of the image">

    Suppose you use a Content Management System (CMS) like WordPress. In that case, there’s a designated field for image optimization where you can create and change the image’s alt text.

    When Should I Use Alt Text?

    According to the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), all images must have a text alternative that describes their function or the information they represent. However, that doesn’t mean every image should be treated the same.

    Follow these rules when writing alt text:

    1. Images of Text

    Does the image contain text?

    If readable text is presented within an image, the text alternative must contain every word in the image. However, it’s essential to mention images with text should be avoided, except in the case of logos.

    2. Functional Images

    Is the image used in a link or a button, and would it be hard to understand the function if it wasn’t there?

    Suppose an image is used as a link or button. In that case, the alt text must describe the functionality and destination, if it doesn’t already from the text or graphical content. For instance, a button to “download in App Store” image link would have an alternative text description stating: “Click here to download the Bittrex app on the App Store.”

    3. Informative Images

    Does the image contribute meaning to the current page or context?

    Informative images are images or illustrations that convey vital information to the context of information surrounding them. The text alternative for these images should include the image’s essential information. The description should be colloquial as if you are explaining it to someone sitting next to you. For example, suppose an image is of a truck driving. In that case, the alternative text should state: “A truck driving over rough terrain”.

    However, complex images such as infographics or diagrams used to convey data or detailed information should have a complete text equivalent to the data or information provided in the infographic or chart.

    4. Decorative Images

    Is the image purely decorative or not intended for the user?

    If an image’s only purpose is to add visual decoration, it does not require alt text. However, the image must then be explicitly marked as presentational so that it is ignored by screen reading software. It must still have an alt attribute, so give it “null” alt text, which is an alt attribute with no value, as seen below:

    <img src=”../img.jpg” alt=”” />

    Need help with how to treat a specific image? The W3C has developed an alt text decision tree to help you determine the right approach depending on the image’s purpose.

    Image Alt Text Best Practices

    Ultimately, image alt text needs to be specific and representative of the topic it supports. Just adding alt text isn’t enough. It’s essential to ensure it’s effective. 

    Here are some best practices to follow:

    Describe an Image and Be Specific

    Alt Text should accurately represent the content and function of an image. Use both the image’s subject and context to guide you. For example, instead of writing “dog” for an image, use a more specific description such as “A golden retriever playing fetch in the park.”

    Avoid Redundancy

    It might seem like a helpful cue, but remember not to include phrases like “picture of” or “image of” in your alt text. Screen readers and Search Engines will know from the preceding HTML tag to announce the alt text as an image. Including these phrases in your description will only disrupt the user’s experience and waste valuable characters.

    Write for People, Not Search Engines

    Many content creators make the mistake of trying to stuff keywords into their site’s alt text. While it’s true that alt text can contribute to SEO, your priority should be accessibility and user experience. If you can naturally fold a keyword into your alt text, excellent. But don’t fall into the trap of treating alt text like an SEO tool.

    Review for Spelling Errors and Punctuation

    Like all website content, proper punctuation makes information easier to understand. Ensure that your alt text is free of mistakes for a professional and clear description.

    In addition, when hiding decorative images, you should be aware of spacing when using a null or empty alt text. If there is a space between the quotes, assistive technologies may still pick it up as alt text, confusing the user.

    Image Alt Text Example

    Alt text that doesn’t appropriately describe the image and its purpose could prove detrimental or puzzling to website users relying on assistive technology.

    Follow alt-text best practices, and you’ll get a feel for what needs to be said. A more detailed description may be beneficial. However, there are instances when it can be redundant. Consider the example below.

    Cleveland Ohio's Detroit-Superior Bridge at night

    Bad Alt Text

    <img src= "example.jpg" alt="a city's bridge at night">

    The line of alt text above is technically descriptive — but it does not describe the image in a meaningful way for the user. Yes, the photo above shows a city’s bridge, and it is night. But this is also a picture of Cleveland, Ohio — and the Detroit-Superior Bridge. These are essential specifics that your users might need to comprehend the image if it’s on, say, a blog post about Cleveland landmarks.

    Good Alt Text

    With context in mind, a better alt text for this image might be:

    <img src= "example.jpg" alt="Cleveland Ohio's Detroit-Superior Bridge at night">

    Why is Image Alt Text Important?

    We’ve already alluded to several reasons why image alt text is essential. However, understanding these reasons will help you write the best alt text possible for your users. Below we’ll look at the significant reasons image alt text is essential.

    Web Accessibility and User Experience

    Image alt tags allow screen reader users to understand what is happening on a webpage besides the written basic text. Images may be the only form of instruction for some websites or other digital assets. Without alt text, these users may miss out on the information conveyed through images, affecting their overall site experience. It is, therefore, a key component in meeting the  World Wide Web Consortium (WCAG) success criteria for image alternative text descriptions. 

    Ignoring these standards could lead to potential legal consequences due to non-compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act  (ADA). Such non-compliance limits your website’s audience reach and could result in lawsuits or hefty fines. Hence, incorporating alt text in your website design is an inclusive practice and a legal imperative.

    Search Engine Optimization

    Search engines like Google, unable to visually understand images, rely on Alt Text to determine their content. This information helps them provide relevant results for image searches, significantly boosting your website’s visibility.

    However, while Alt Text can contribute to SEO, it should not be used to manipulate search rankings by overstuffing keywords. Google can penalize such practices, leading to a decrease in your overall SEO performance.

    Learn more about Web Accessibility and SEO Optimization: A Powerhouse Combination.

    Take the Next Steps Toward Accessibility

    In a digital era where inclusivity and accessibility are of utmost importance, alt text is a vital tool for website owners and developers. If, until now, you were not aware of the importance of image alt text, don’t stress! You can add these elements at any time to increase the accessibility of your website. 

    If you’d like to talk further about your web accessibility initiative, Schedule a Complimentary ADA Strategy Briefing with the experts at 216digital. We will help you take the steps towards web accessibility on your terms by developing a strategy to integrate WCAG 2.1 compliance into your development roadmap.

    Remember, alt text is not just an option—it’s an essential step in building a successful and accessible online presence.

    Greg McNeil

    July 10, 2023
    216digital, ADA Compliance, ADA Web Accessibility
    Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Alt text, Image Alt Text, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
  • A Comprehensive Guide to ADA Web Compliance

    A Comprehensive Guide to ADA Web Compliance

    As a business owner, you are likely aware that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law mandating inclusion for people with disabilities in all areas of public life. Did you know, however, that these protections also extend to websites? The number of website accessibility lawsuits has steadily risen — from 2,314 in 2018 to 4,061 in 2022.

    But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll take a look at what you need to know as an online business owner about the ADA and its implications for your website, including:

    • What is the ADA?
    • Who Has to Be ADA Compliant?
    • How Does the ADA Assess Web Accessibility?
    • The Rise of ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits
    • Why You Need to Take ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits Seriously
    • Find Out If Your Website is ADA Compliant

    What is the ADA?

    The ADA, or the Americans with Disabilities Act, is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life. The primary goal of this law is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

    The ADA draws on the precedent set by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which guarantees certain rights to people with disabilities. However, the Rehabilitation Act was very limiting, only applying to the government sector (later amended and updated by Section 508).

    What Does the ADA Cover?

    ADA is a very broad piece of legislation that is divided into five titles. The part of the ADA that affects the way that businesses serve customers and employees is called “Title III.”

    Title III of the ADA, which affects how businesses serve customers and employees, prohibits discrimination in “places of public accommodation.” These “public accommodations” refer to privately owned entities such as restaurants, schools, recreation facilities, and retail stores.

    The ADA necessitates two main things:

    1. Employers must provide necessary accommodations for employees with disabilities to perform their job duties, which may involve accessible restrooms and appropriate office equipment.
    2. Businesses must ensure that their services are accessible to customers with disabilities. This requires features such as wheelchair ramps for building entrances, American Sign Language (ASL) interpretations, and accommodations for service animals.

    Who Has To Be ADA Compliant?

    There’s a common misconception that ADA only applies to large corporations or physical brick-and-mortar stores. Any business with 15 or more employees or any that operates publicly must comply with the ADA. However, this rule does not apply to websites—businesses of all sizes may be served with ADA non-compliance litigation.

    That means that ADA affects:

    • Places of entertainment such as theaters and concert halls
    • Restaurants
    • Retail stores
    • Doctors’ offices 
    • State and local government offices, employment agencies, and labor unions
    • Schools and daycare facilities

    Is ADA Compliance Mandatory for Websites?

    While it was clear from the beginning that the ADA would affect brick-and-mortar stores, it was less obvious if it would cover websites and online applications. As the internet and websites started to play a bigger role in how consumers interact with businesses, the way the ADA is applied to web accessibility had to change.

    In 2010, the Department of Justice (DOJ) began rulemaking activity to assert that all business websites are “places of public accommodation” under Title III of the ADA. The final Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, however, has been postponed by the DOJ multiple times.

    It wasn’t until late 2021 and early 2022 that the DOJ entered into multiple settlement agreements concerning the accessibility of websites used for COVID-19 vaccines. These emphasized that the DOJ “…has consistently maintained that the ADA’s requirements apply to all goods, services, privileges, or activities offered by public accommodations, including those offered on the web.”

    Today, US courts apply ADA accessibility requirements to all online domains, including websites and other web-based applications. Consequently, businesses should strive to comply with ADA rules.

    How Does the ADA Assess Web Accessibility?

    Due to the DOJ’s delay in releasing technical standards for web accessibility, confusion has emerged among businesses and website owners about what is required for ADA compliance. As a result, the DOJ often refers to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), as the standard for ADA web compliance. 

    WCAG 2.1 Level AA has become the benchmark for ADA web compliance, even referenced in many joint lawsuits with the DOJ. However, it is important to note that there is no legal standard— even achieving WCAG 2.1 AA conformance does not fully protect you from lawsuits. 

    WCAG 2.1 consists of 78 success criteria written as pass-or-fail statements that address common accessibility issues, such as miss or non-descriptive alternative text and keyboard navigation. 

    The Rise of ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits

    An ADA web accessibility lawsuit can be filed by anyone who feels they have been discriminated against due to a website’s inaccessibility.

    The ADA’s relevance to websites and online applications is more than just theoretical. Since 2017, ADA Title III related lawsuits have skyrocketed, with 2,314 lawsuits filed in 2018 and over 4,061 cases in 2022. Overall, web accessibility lawsuits have increased by 175% over the past five years. Furthermore, these figures don’t include the rising number of ADA legal complaints and ADA compliance demand letters sent to businesses with non-accessible websites.

    In 2022, 1,500 demand letters were sent per week. This represents a steep incline in legal actions pursued following the notice of non-accessible websites on the internet. 

    As an online business or website owner, it’s critical to ensure your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their disability. Doing so not only helps avoid legal action but also broadens your audience.

    What Are the Most Common Accessibility Issues Cited In Legal Claims?

    Most ADA website compliance lawsuits center around a few recurring issues, including:

    1. Missing Image Descriptions or Alt Text: Images should have descriptive alt text that provides context or meaning for those who can’t see them.
    2. Empty Links and Buttons: All links and buttons should have descriptive labels or text to inform users about their purpose.
    3. Info and Content Structure: Information should be organized logically, and the content structure should be easily navigable by assistive technologies.

    Why You Need to Take ADA Web Compliance Lawsuits Seriously 

    Web accessibility cases against large companies like Domino’s, Netflix, and H&R Block made headlines. However, most lawsuits are against small to medium-sized businesses. In 2022, 72% of ADA non-compliance lawsuits involved companies with less than $50 million in annual revenue.

    These lawsuits can lead to stiff penalties. For example, businesses that violate Title III of the ADA may face a maximum civil penalty of $75,000 for a first violation. Subsequent violations have been seen with up to a $150,000 fine. Since the court would inevitably favor the plaintiff, small business owners often feel they have no choice but to settle out of court. But even the average ADA website lawsuit settlement still comes to $35,000. 

    The implications are clear: a non-accessible website is a significant liability for any company operating on the web today.

    Find Out If Your Website is ADA Compliant

    As a website owner, you must ensure your site is accessible to all, including those with disabilities. Understanding ADA Title III is a crucial step toward achieving this goal. Although the process may seem daunting, it’s a worthy investment that helps you avoid legal complications and improves your website’s usability and reach. So, why not start reviewing your website’s accessibility today?

    Find out if your website is ADA compliant today by scheduling a 15-minute complimentary website audit and consultation with our experts at 216digital. We can help determine if your website is at risk of a lawsuit and offer fast, effective ADA compliance solutions. This ensures your site is accessible to everyone, reducing your risk of litigation so you can continue focusing on what matters most: running your business.

    Greg McNeil

    June 15, 2023
    216digital, ADA Compliance, ADA Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
    Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
  • What to Expect from WCAG 2.2

    What to Expect from WCAG 2.2

    Are you an online business or website owner? If so, you must be aware of the critical changes in the  Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2! The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) is expected to release the latest version of WCAG in May 2023. So stay ahead of the curve and ensure your website remains accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Here’s what you need to know about the proposed changes — and how they will affect your current WCAG compliance. And remember, when WCAG 2.2 goes live, 216digital will be here to help.

    Why is WCAG Changing?

    WCAG is a set of guidelines designed to help make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. However, as technology and user preferences change, so must WCAG’s standards. Each new standard introduced is developed by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI). In 2021, WAI announced they were starting to work on the draft for WCAG 2.2, which is finally expected to be released sometime next month.

    WCAG can be changed to add new success criteria or to change a current guideline’s conformance level. But, it will not remove any guidelines or change any language. Currently, WCAG 2.2 is based on the same three conformance levels as the previous versions: Level A, AA, and AAA.

    Level A

    Level A is the lowest level of conformance and the easiest to achieve with minimal impact on a website’s structure or design. It allows websites to be broadly accessible as it addresses the most basic access issues.

    Level AA 

    By meeting the success criteria for Level AA, websites are considered reasonably accessible as they offer a higher level of conformity than Level A. AA is most often used as the compliance standard in lawsuits and is usable for most people.

    Level AAA

    Level AAA is the highest level of conformance and the most difficult to achieve. It is not often used as a goal to strive toward since it is not feasible for most websites to have the resources to meet this level.

    What’s Changing In WCAG 2.2?

    WCAG 2.2 introduces nine new success criteria along with minor changes to the instructions accompanying several established guidelines. However, each of these criteria is still up for feedback and changes, so there’s no guarantee that all of them will make it into the final version of WCAG 2.2.

    Here’s a quick overview of the new guidelines — and how each one can help address web accessibility issues:

    Guideline 2.4 Navigable

    2.4.11 Focus Appearance (Minimum)

    Level AA

    Focus Appearance builds on two existing WCAG criteria, specifying the minimum requirements for focus indicators. The new guideline ensures that keyboard focus indicators are visible and easily distinguishable. They must have a clear border, are not obscured by other content, and have at least a color contrast ratio of 3:1 against the unfocused state and all adjacent colors.

    The intent of WCAG 2.4.11  is to help low-vision users who use a keyboard for navigation. Users can quickly tell where they are on a page by ensuring the current focus point is visible.

    2.4.12 Focus Not Obscured (Minimum)

    Level AA

    Knowing the current focus point is essential for sighted users who use a keyboard or keyboard-like device. However, sticky headers, pop-ups, and other content can sometimes obscure focused elements while a user is browsing.

    However, Criterion 2.4.12 requires user interface components not to be entirely hidden from other content on the page. This lets users easily track the current focus point and avoid confusion.

    2.4.13 Focus Not Obscured (Enhanced)

    Level AAA

    Similar to 2.4.12, 2.4.13 requires that no part of the focus indicator is hidden by other content.

    Guideline 2.5 Input Modalities

    2.5.7 Dragging Movements

    Level AA

    Drag and drop movements can be difficult and error-prone for many website users. Therefore, WCAG 2.5.7 requires that any functionality that uses a dragging movement for operation can also be achieved in other ways, like clicking. For example, a user could use a single tap, double tap, long presses, or path-based gestures instead of dragging an item. However, a dragging action is allowed when it is essential to the functionality of the content.

    2.5.8 Target Size (Minimum)

    Level AA

    When buttons and other clickable elements are small, they can be challenging to interact with for people with fine motor impairments. The purpose of 2.5.8 is to ensure that when users select a target with a mouse or other device, they can do so easily without activating other nearby targets. Therefore, all clickable elements, such as links, must be at least 24 by 24 CSS pixels in size and spacing between adjacent targets.

    2.5.8 provides a level AA alternative to 2.5.5: Target Size (Enhanced), which was introduced as part of WCAG 2.1. However, 2.5.5 requires the target size for all clickable elements to be at least 44 by 44 CSS pixels.

    Guideline 3.2 Predictable

    3.2.6: Consistent Help

    Level A

    The goal of 3.2.6 is to ensure that all users can easily find help when completing tasks on a web page. For example, suppose a help feature — such as search bars and help buttons — is available on multiple pages of a website. In that case, it must appear in the same relative place an order on each of the pages where it appears. This is particularly beneficial for users with cognitive disabilities or limited web experience, as they can quickly access help when needed.

    Guideline 3.3 Input Assistance

    3.3.7 Redundant Entry

    Level A

    For people with cognitive disabilities, logging into a website or mobile app can be challenging. The 3.3.7  level AA guideline tackles authentication processes that require the user to remember, manipulate, or transcribe information. Websites that use cognitive function tests must provide at least one other authentication method.

    For instance, asking users to remember a password is a standard cognitive function test. But suppose the website allows entries from password manager browser extensions. In that case, the website has provided them with a mechanism to complete the process.

    3.3.8 Accessible Authentication (Minimum)

    Level AA

    3.3.8 takes 3.37 further by not allowing any exceptions for cognitive function tests. For multi-step processes, 3.3.8 requires websites to auto-populate fields or enable users to select the information that they’ve previously entered. For example, suppose a website’s form requires the user to enter their address multiple times. In that case, the second field should either provide users with an option to select their address from the previous entry or auto-populate.

    3.3.9: Redundant Entry ( Enhanced)

    Level AAA

    Similar to 3.3.7 and 3.3.8, 3.3.9 applies to the authentication process. However, 3.3.9 is a Level AAA guideline that does not require an authentication process unless that step provides an alternative authentication process or auto-populate.

    Getting Ready for WCAG 2.2

    While the full implementation of WCAG 2.2 may still be on the horizon, it’s never too early to start preparing. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition:

    1. Familiarize yourself with the new success criteria and understand their implications for your website.
    2. Conduct an accessibility audit to identify areas that need improvement and align with WCAG 2.2 requirements.
    3. Update your website’s design, content, and functionality to address the new criteria and improve accessibility.
    4. Train your team on the importance of web accessibility and the new guidelines to ensure consistent implementation.

    How Will the Revisions Affect My Current WCAG Compliance?

    The transition from WCAG 2.1 to 2.2 will require some adjustments to your website, particularly in the areas of navigability, input modalities, predictability, and input assistance. However, these updates are designed to build upon the existing guidelines, so your current efforts will not be wasted. By proactively addressing these changes, you’ll ensure that your website remains compliant and accessible to all users.

    When WCAG 2.2 Goes Live, We’ll Be Here to Help

    When WCAG 2.2 goes live, you can count on  216digital to help you navigate the changes and maintain an accessible website. Our expert team will assess your website, provide recommendations, and implement the necessary adjustments to ensure your website meets the latest accessibility standards. Reach out to us today by scheduling a complementary ADA Strategy Briefing so that you can embrace the future of web accessibility with confidence.

    Greg McNeil

    April 28, 2023
    216digital, ADA Compliance, ADA Web Accessibility, Uncategorized
    Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, WCAG, WCAG 2.2, Website Accessibility
  • What Are the Levels of WCAG Compliance?

    What Are the Levels of WCAG Compliance?

    When it comes to accessibility compliance, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) version 2.0 is the most widely used standard worldwide. WCAG has set internationally shared standards for web content accessibility to meet the needs of individuals, organizations, and governments. Web Content applies to all content on a web page or application, including text, images, sounds, code, or markup that define a website’s structure or presentation.

    There are three levels of WCAG compliance: A, AA, and AAA. Although this distinction is essential, it can be baffling. Therefore, we will discuss what WCAG A, AA, and AAA are, what they mean for your site, and which compliance level to aim for when becoming accessible.

    Learn more about WCAG and ADA Web Accessibility Standards

    What are the WCAG Levels?

    There are three compliance levels within WCAG 2.0: A, AA, and AAA. For a website to be accessible for all users, each level’s requirments must be met. The distinction between conformance levels gives an organized structure requiring an increasingly higher standard of accessibility. The three levels provide flexibility upon different situations. For example, in complex websites or advancing technologies, to maintain a minimum level of compliance.

    WCAG Foundation Principles

    Each level of compliance is based on the same four principles of web accessibility. These principles are the foundations for content on the web and anyone wanting to use it. WCAG 2.0 guidelines follow these four principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust, referred to as POUR. Therefore, to understand each WCAG level, it is essential to start with their foundation. 

    Perceivable

    A website’s information and elements must be apparent to the user, leaving nothing undetectable or invisible. Most users perceive content and elements on a website through visuals. However, sound or touch are used alternatively for those unable to. 

    Operable

    A website’s interactive elements such as controls, buttons, and navigations should be operable by all users. Users must operate the interface elements by first identifying those elements and selecting those options. Most users can interact by clicking, tapping, swiping, or rolling. However, users who cannot physically click require voice commands or other assistive devices to engage with interactive elements. 

    Understandable

    Websites must be clear and concise in presenting predictable patterns for interaction and design. Users should have no issue comprehending the meaning or purpose of the presented information, including the function of buttons or other elements on a website. Everything should have a purpose and should be recognizable to all users.

    Robust

    Content must be robust enough for users to understand the function and reliably use various assisting technologies. 

    What Do the Different WCAG Conformance Levels Mean?

    As previously mentioned, WCAG 2.0 A, AA, and AAA all have specific criteria to be met. The requirements for a website include all interactive elements, content, and presentation following four principles of POUR. WCAG does provide guidelines for each level for what an accessible website should do, each level building upon the next. However, the specific actions each website must take to be considered accessible or reach a certain level of compliance are not outlined. The most significant difference between conformance levels A, AA, and AAA is what they mean for the users of each website. 

    WCAG 2.0 Level A: Minimal Compliance

    Level A covers the basic requirements and is the minimum degree of accessibility for a website to be accessible. Basic requirements to meet Level A do not impact the design or structure of the website. Failure to fulfill will result in an inaccessible website and will be impossible or exceedingly difficult for users with disabilities to use.

    Notable WCAG 2.0 Level A success criteria include:

    • All non-text content such as audio, video, or images must have a text alternative such as an alt text within the website’s code or captions to serve as an equivalent source for information and context. 
    • Users can effectively navigate the website using only keyboard inputs.
    • Time-based media or video content must have a media alternative for text. 
    • Content and interface elements conveyed through presentation can be extracted and presented to the user in different modalities through assistive technologies or user agents.
    • Color is not used as the only visual means of conveying information, prompting a response, distinguishing an element, or indicating an action by the user.

    WCAG 2.0 Level AA: Acceptable Compliance

    Level A conformance is an excellent starting point. However, Level AA goes further by ensuring a website must be deemed usable and understandable for most people, regardless of ability. For this reason, level AA compliance has been the standard for accessibility and web accessibility laws globally, including the ADA and Section 508 in the United States. 

    Notable WCAG 2.0 Level AA success criteria include:

    • Text for content, captions, and text images can be resized without assistive technology up to 200% without loss of range of function.
    • Text or alt text is used to convey information or content rather than images with text.
    • More than one way to locate a web page within a website except when the web page is the result of a process or steps
    • Navigation elements are consistent throughout the site
    • Form fields have accurate labels

    WCAG 2.0 Level AAA: Completely Compliant

    Compliance at WCAG 2.0 is the highest level of accessibility and accommodates the maximum number of users. Unfortunately, it is also the most challenging level to achieve. While this level of compliance would be ideal, it is not necessary., W3 states they do not recommend or require Level AAA compliance for an entire website since it is impossible to achieve Level AAA from some content.

    Notable WCAG 2.0 Level AAA success criteria include:

    • Sign language interpretation for audio or video content
    • Visual presentation of text and images has a contrast ratio of at least 7:1 except for large text, logo, or visual decorative components with no significance to the content.
    • Timing is not an essential part of any activity on the website. 
    • The website does not contain anything that flashes more than three times in any one second.
    • Context-sensitive help is available.

    Can You Partially Meet a WCAG Level?

    A website must meet all of the accessibility compliance level’s guidelines. To state that a website is Level AA compliant, it must meet every requirement for both Level A and the Level AA guidelines. Therefore, if you meet the24 out of 25 requirements for Level AA, your site will still be deemed only a Level A. However, please do not use this not to try to aim for higher levels of compliance. The more accessible your site is, the better the user experience is for your users regardless of their abilities.

    What WCAG Level to Aim For

    Most websites and development teams aim to meet Level AA. The legally required level for legislation for specific sites is Level AA, including the ADA and Section 508. Suppose you want to strengthen your existing website by making it ADA compliant. In that case, it is best to accomplish the Level A criteria first before progressing to Level AA. A Level A compliance level is still more accessible than an inaccessible website.

    Closing

    Understanding the different levels of WCAG 2.0 and their requirements can serve as a guide when implementing accessibility into your website. Take the first steps towards becoming accessible. Testing and correcting accessibility issues will help better your business and mitigate expensive ADA lawsuits. 

    Integrating accessibility can seem intimidating at first, but 216digital  is here to help. If you would like more information on web accessibility or how to make your website accessible today, schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation with our experts.

    Greg McNeil

    January 27, 2022
    216digital, ADA Compliance, Website Accessibility
    Accessibility, WCAG, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
  • 2022 ADA Web Accessibility Standards and Requirements

    2022 ADA Web Accessibility Standards and Requirements

    For most of us, it’s hard to imagine trying to navigate the world today without the web. We use it for almost everything: socializing, shopping, consuming media, research, the list goes on. However, the web is not accessible to all. Individuals with disabilities or impairments struggle to use the internet or are unable to. Unfortunately, the lack of standardized guidelines for proper website development and design has left the web full of obstacles and barriers. As a result, The Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) was created to standardize web accessibility and develop universal guidelines for web content and applications, browsers, and authoring tools. Below, we will take a look at what you need to know as an online business owner and user about web accessibility, including:

    • What is a Web Accessibility? 
    • What are the Requirements for Web Compliance?
      • Web Accessibility Standards
      • The Four Principles of Web Accessibility
      • The Components of Web Accessibility
    • Compliance and Legislation ADA
      • WCAG
      • Section 508
    • How Can 216digital Help Your Website ADA Compliant?

    What is Web Accessibility?

    We have all experienced inconveniences of blurry images, websites not compatible with mobile devices, and slow-loading websites on the internet. While these issues may be annoying, they can completely restrict internet usage for individuals with disabilities or impairments. 

    Web accessibility helps aid in the development of perception, understanding, contribution, navigation, and interaction for individuals with disability or impairments on the internet. All ­­individuals should have the same access to digital information regardless of their ability. Therefore, integrating accessibility into your website is vital for all customer experiences. 

    Learn more about what is web accessibility and its importance.

    What are the Requirements for Web Compliance?

    Before making your website accessible, you must first understand the standards, principles, and components that contribute to making a website accessible.

    Web Accessibility Standards

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide an internationally shared standard for web content accessibility. Web content is the information on a web page or application, including text, images, sound, and code that defines a website’s structure or presentation. 

    There are two versions of WCAG currently applied: WCAG 2.0 and 2.1. WCAG 2.0 was published in 2008 but was not accepted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) until 2012. 2.1 was published ten years later in 2018 to include all of the previously accepted standards of 2.0 with additional criteria. WCAG 2.0 and 2.1 are backward-compatible, meaning that content conforming to WCAG 2.1 follows WCAG 2.0. 

    Following the standards introduced by WCAG, websites’ success at implementing accessibility practices are classified into three levels of conformance, Level A, AA, and AAA. 

    Level A

    Level A is the basic requirement and the minimum degree of accessibility that must be satisfied. Failure to fulfill will result in an inaccessible website. 

    Level AA

    This level addresses the more common web barriers individuals with impairments or disabilities face. In addition, Level AA is also the highest conformance required by most websites to remove the most significant accessibility barriers.  

    Level AAA

    The highest level for accessibility under WCAG is level AAA. Unfortunately, it is also the most difficult to achieve. Achieving this level of compliance is desirable but is not necessary. 

    The Four Principles of Web Accessibility

    The principles of web accessibility are the foundations for all content on the web and for anyone wanting to use it. WCAG 2.0 and 2.1 guidelines follow these four principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust, also known as POUR. POUR is an acronym used to define functional accessibility in a website.  

    Perceivable

    A website’s information and elements must be apparent to the user, leaving nothing undetectable or invisible. Most web users perceive the content and elements of a website through visuals. Sound or touch are used alternatively for those unable to. For instance, a well-written alternative text can help provide context to that missing viable information for individuals unable to visually perceive an image. 

    Operable

    A website’s interactive elements such as controls, buttons, navigations, and more should be operable for all users. Users must operate the interface elements by first identifying those elements and physically selecting them. Those who cannot engage with interactive elements by clicking, tapping, swiping, or rolling use voice commands or other assistive devices. In other words, websites should not require actions that some users cannot perform. Some users won’t even use your website if they cannot function with a keyboard alone. These barriers can limit your website’s reach and create a poor user experience for all users. 

    Understandable

    Websites must be clear and concise in presenting predictable patterns within their use and design. Users should have no issue comprehending the meaning or purpose of information. The “understandable” principle also applies to user interaction elements such as buttons or other elements on your site. Everything should have a purpose and meaning and should be recognizable.

    Robust

    Content must be robust enough for users to understand the content’s function reliably using a wide variety of technologies, including assistive devices. Above all, as technologies advance, content within a website should remain accessible. 

    The lack of any of these four principles will make your website inaccessible. Therefore, the WCAG guidelines and standards branch out on these four principles into more detailed levels as discussed above, Levels A, AA, and AAA.

    The Components of Web Accessibility

    Accessibility is an aspect that covers every part of a website. The various components of a website should interconnect and complement one another for the site to function and be available for individuals with impairments or disabilities. These components include content, user agents, authoring tools, and evaluation tools. 

    Content

    Content encompasses all of the information on a website or web application, including elements on the front and back ends. The content consists of text, images, sounds, presentation, structure, and interactive features on the front-facing end. On the backside of a website, the scope includes the code, scripts, or markups assistive technologies use. 

    User-Agents

    User agents act on behalf of a user, including web browsers, media players, plug-ins, and assistive technologies. 

    Authoring Tools

    Authoring tools assist in creating digital content, such as blogs or code editors. 

    Evaluation Tools

    Evaluations tools can help determine how effective your accessibility attributes are and help to track your remediation efforts. 

    Compliance and Legislation

    The growing awareness of digital accessibility as a civil right has increased dramatically. As a result, several countries have started to set web accessibility standards and regulations to pressure website owners to address these issues or face legal actions and public scrutiny. By complying with web accessibility legislation, you could mitigate a frivolous ADA lawsuit. Here are some of the more prominent laws and guidelines globally and in the United States. 

    ADA

    The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, was passed on July 26th, 1990, in the United States to ensure equal and fair treatment for individuals with disabilities. The Act secures equal rights for people with disability in the fields of employment, state and local governments, public accommodations, telecommunication, and miscellaneous provisions. Therefore, these five fields are typically referred to as Title I, II, III, IV, and V of the ADA.

    Title III states that all areas of public accommodation, such as hotels, schools, restaurants, and retailers, must secure equal access to services and information for all users. As the internet has evolved, websites and mobile apps have become essential places to shop, learn, share and connect. Therefore, new lawsuits under the Act have prompted the Department of Justice (DOJ) to expand the definition of areas of public accommodation to include websites and online applications. Therefore, any barriers prohibiting or limiting access to a website violates Title III. 

    WCAG

    As discussed prior, The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, or WCAG, is the international accessibility standards established by the World Wide Web Consortium(W3C). The guidelines offer technical recommendations on how to make your website content accessible. Although WCAG is not enforceable, the guidelines have become the foundation of severe mandatory accessibility regulation around the world, including The United States Section 508, 

    Section 508

    Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires all federal agencies in the United States to ensure that electronic and information technology is accessible to people with or without disabilities. The electronic and information communication technology subject within Section 508 includes websites, web applications, software, and digital documents. In 2018 Section 208 was updated to coordinate with the international accessibility standards of WCAG. 

    How Can 216digital Help Your Website ADA Compliant?

    Becoming web-accessible can become confusing, intimidating, and costly, but knowing you are not alone is essential. Here at 216digital, we are passionate about web accessibility and ensure you are getting the most money. That is why we offer different ADA remediation services to fit what your website and business need now. In addition, we have teamed up with the National ADA law firm to understand better how furious lawsuits occur, what they target, and how to resolve this issue before it’s too late. 

    If you would like more information on web accessibility or how to make your website accessible today, schedule a15-minute complimentary website audit and consultation with our experts.

    Greg McNeil

    January 27, 2022
    216digital, ADA Compliance, Website Accessibility
    Accessibility, ADA Website Compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
  • What is Web Accessibility & Why is it Important?

    What is Web Accessibility & Why is it Important?

    Most of us can hardly conceive what life would be like without the internet. The ability to have the world at your fingertips or the click of a mouse. But what if you can’t use a mouse? What if you can’t see the screen of your computer or hear a video playing?

    As soon as we ask these types of questions, we can begin to see how the internet can create barriers, leaving some users frustrated and reliant on others. However, once we can recognize these barriers, we can begin to remove them, creating web content, design, and tools that everyone can use regardless of their ability. Here is an introduction to the basics of web accessibility. 

    What is Web Accessibility?

    We have all experienced the annoyance of squinting at a poorly selected font, blurry images, or trying to navigate a page that is not compatible with mobile devices. While these issues are a slight inconvenience, they can restrict or eliminate their internet usage to some. 

     Web accessibility provides everyone with the same access to digital information without any hindrance, regardless of impairments or disabilities. Users should be equipped with the tools and capabilities to aid in the website’s perception, understanding, contribution, navigation, and interaction. 

    Why is Web Accessibility Important?

    The internet is an essential resource in almost every aspect of life. During the 2020 COVID pandemic, the internet became a lifeline to many, keeping the world connected. The high rate of digital adoption within the past two years has revolutionized our lives and society. Still, a significant percentage of the world’s population is limited or cannot use the internet due to accessibility barriers. 

    Web Accessibility for Users

    Accessibility barriers hinder users with disabilities from interacting and experiencing the internet. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 billion people have some disability, with the rates continuing to rise from chronic health conditions and population aging.  

    There are three disabilities or impairments: conditional or situational, temporary, and permanent. Conditional or situational impairment is the difficulty accessing digital information due to the situation. An example of situational impairment would include noise, poor lighting, distractions, or slow internet speed. Permanent and temporary disabilities are more commonly associated with disability, including visual, hearing, neurological, cognitive, and motor issues. 

    Web Accessibility Benefits for Your Business

    Web accessibility often is thought only to remove barriers for users facing disabilities. However, accessibility can be just as beneficial for your online business as it can its users. 

    Brand Reputation

    Having an accessible website creates an inclusive environment for your users while providing them with more meaningful interaction with your website and brand by building trust and reputation. For instance, Facebook has been praised for ensuring its site accommodates blind users.

    Expanding Market

    Your online business lives and breathes according to your customers. The internet is the best place to reach out to customers and expand your market. By making your website accessible, you will cater to an estimated $1.2 trillion market that the competition could be overlooking. As a result, you are increasing your customer retention and acquisition. 

    Legal Compliance

    Additional, by ensuring your website is accessible, you could mitigate a frivolous ADA lawsuit. One lawsuit is filed every hour either in federal court or in California under the Unruh Act directly violating ADA guidelines. 

    Web Accessibility can be beneficial for both your customers and your business. But what are the guidelines for Web Accessibility, and how are they determined?

    Website Accessibility Guidelines

    Users with a disability can change how they interact with the internet using assistive software. However, how users interact is not always predictable. For instance, an individual with low vision could use a screen reader or screen magnifiers. Ideally, a website’s content should be accessible for all users, including users who require assistive software.  

    The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the most widely cited international standards for web accessibility. WCAG included specific checkpoints and recommendations based on a principle-based approach to ensure all users can share in the same experience. 

    The Four Principles of Website Accessibility

    WCAG’s principle-based approach is the foundation for producing content and for anyone who wants to use the web. POUR is an acronym that describes accessibility as perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust.

    Perceivable

    The state or quality of information and elements on a website has to be capable of being perceived through the senses, leaving nothing left undetectable or invisible. Most users perceive information relying on visuals or sight. Visually impaired users perceive information through sound or touch. For instance, if a user cannot see an image, how can they perceive the content of the article they are reading? Images with well-written alternative text can provide context, allowing them to still perceive the content just as individuals with sight. 

    Operable

    Users must be able to operate a website’s interactive elements. Interactive interface elements such as buttons, navigations, or controls should operate for all users. Users must operate the interface elements by first identifying them and engaging with them. For instance, have you ever tried to click a submit button on a website, and nothing happened? Your interaction with the malfunctioning button has limited your experience or has prevented you from using the website how you intended. 

    Users who cannot interact with elements physically by clicking, or tapping, rely on the tab key, voice commands, or other assistive devices to engage with elements. Websites should not require actions that some users cannot perform. Some users will even not use your website if they cannot function with a keyboard alone. These barriers can limit your website’s reach and create a poor users experience for all users. 

    Understandable

    Websites should be clear and concise in presentation and format, with predictable patterns of use and design. Users should have no issue comprehending the meaning and purpose of the presented information. The “understandable” principle also applies to user interaction elements such as buttons, semantic markups within the code, and other elements to your site. Everything should have a purpose and a meaning behind your site’s content.

    Robust

    Robustness is the ability for content to function reliably using various technologies, including assistive devices. Websites need to provide the same information and interactivity, regardless of access through screen readers, touch screens, or web browsers.

    The lack of these four principles will make your website inaccessible to your users. Therefore, the WCAG recommendations branch out into more detailed levels of accessibility based on these four leading principles. There are three compliance levels: A, AA, and AAA. Each level increases the requirements for web accessibility compliance, grading the website based on the requirements met. 

    Closing

    The internet has become a modern necessity to everyone, offering independence and freedom unavailable through any other medium. We need to start asking how users interact with our websites and break the barriers to create a more inclusive online environment through web accessibility. Web accessibility allows everyone to access the same digital information without hindrance, regardless of impairments or disability. Providing the tools and capability to your user’s aid in your site’s perception, understanding, contribution, navigation, and interaction.  

    As you become aware of the importance of web accessibility and its impact on both your company and your customers, it is essential to know you are not alone. Integrating accessibility can seem intimidating at first, but 216digital  is here to help. We have a passion for web accessibility and ensuring your business is thriving in a continuously growing medium. If you would like more information on web accessibility or how to make your website accessible today, schedule a 15-minute complimentary consultation with our experts or request a free ADA compliance scan today by clicking the link below.

    Request A Free ADA Compliance Scan

    Greg McNeil

    January 13, 2022
    216digital, ADA Compliance, Website Accessibility
    Accessibility, ADA Compliance, ADA Website Compliance, Web Accessibility, Website Accessibility
  • Making the Internet Accessible – The History of Website ADA Compliance

    Making the Internet Accessible – The History of Website ADA Compliance

    ADA website compliance!

    It’s become a popular topic as of late, especially for business owners that have a website. 

    But, it might surprise you to learn that ADA compliance has been around for quite some time. Its current popularity is a direct result of its evolving legal interpretations for what makes a website accessible.

    Below, we’ve plotted the history of Website ADA Compliance and its role in preventing discrimination online.

    (more…)

    Greg McNeil

    July 23, 2020
    216digital, ADA Compliance, Website Accessibility
    ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, ADA non-compliance, ADA Website Compliance
  • Are ADA Overlays a Liability? Here’s What Accessibility Experts Had to Say

    Are ADA Overlays a Liability? Here’s What Accessibility Experts Had to Say

    Lawsuits for websites that are not ADA complaint continue to threaten many internet businesses.

    These companies often turn to accessibility tools to quickly make their sites ADA compliant, thinking they’ll be protected from a lawsuit.

    Accessibility tools (screen overlays and widgets,) such as UserWay, AccessiBe, and AudioEye, work by adapting website content to users’ needs.

    Yet, the levels of accessibility that these tools offer varies from overlay to overlay. To cut through the noise surrounding website accessibility tools, we reached out to several industry experts.

    The ADA Experts

    Kim Testa: The Executive Vice President of the Bureau of Internet Accessibility, industry leaders in eliminating the accessibility digital divide since 2001.

    Eli Freedman: The Senior Partnership Success Manager of accessiBe, a two-part web interface and ai accessibility tool hailed as “World-Leading Web Accessibility Technology.”



    Richard Hunt: Partner, Hunt Huey PLLC. Hunt Huey PLLC has a national disability rights practice that includes defending real estate developers, retailers, restaurants, shopping centers, banks, apartment owners and managers, hotels, single-family developers, homeowners associations and other enterprises in ADA and FHA litigation.

    With their professional insight, we find answers to some of the most pressing questions surrounding the use of website overlays to achieve ADA compliance online.

    1. Are screen overlay products effective for making websites appear to be ADA compliant?
    2. If you install a screen overlay product, will you be less likely or more likely to become the victim of an ADA non-compliance lawsuit?
    3. When using a screen overlay product, can site visitors use their own assistive technology?

    Are screen overlay products effective for making websites appear to be ADA compliant?

    Screen overlay products improve website accessibility by adapting the existing assets of a website to best fit the needs of a disabled user.

    These changes are not automatic and must be triggered by the user before making any visible adjustments to a site. We asked Kim, Eli, and Richard their perceptions of the effectiveness of these accessibility tools.

    Kim Testa|The Bureau of Internet Accessibility

    “In the world of digital inclusiveness and accessibility, overlay products do nothing to ensure the original website code is compliant to WCAG 2.1 A/AA.  

    They work by “recreating” the web pages with “their” code. A script is then inserted into the website’s original code, which in turn hijacks the user’s screen reader and forces them to learn a new technology. In some instances the overlay solutions make the user identify themselves as someone living with a disability. 

    Keep in mind that 99% of people that need assistive technology, have their own and do not need, nor want to be forced to use someone else’s. While overlays may sound like an easy, quick-fix – they do absolutely nothing to remediate the accessibility issues of a website, web-based applications, or native mobile apps.”

    Eli Freedman | accessiBe

    “There has been a lot of buzz in the marketplace discussing why web accessibility overlays are not compliant. We can say for certain that overlay companies pose their solutions as being compliant, when in fact they are not.

    Research shows overlays only handle up to 25% of the WCAG requirements leaving the remaining 75% inaccessible and vulnerable to lawsuits. Why? Those overlays only handle the more simple requirements which are the CSS adjustments of a website. For instance, color contrast ratios, stop animations, larger cursors, font colors and sizing, and more.

    Where accessiBe differs from other layover tools is that it handles both the foreground CSS adjustments and the 75% ‘heavy background lifting’ WCAG 2.1 AA requirements like Aria attributes, assistive technology compatibility, alt tags for images, contextual understanding Ai that assigns all the correct elemental structures like pop-ups, forms, icons, buttons, and website behaviors.”

    Richard Hunt | Hunt Huey PLLC

    ““ADA compliant” isn’t really a meaningful question because there is no objective regulatory or judicial standard for business website ADA compliance (Government websites covered by the Rehabilitation Act have a standard almost identical to WCAG 2.0 AA). In fact, there isn’t even agreement on why a website has to be accessible under the ADA, and until you know why the website needs to be accessible it is impossible to say whether it meets that need.

    We can say that in the broadest terms a website does what the ADA requires if a disabled individual has meaningful access to all the goods and services it offers. That is a subjective standard because it depends on the particular user and their assistive technology. Government agencies, businesses, and lawyers hate subjective standards, so most are using WCAG 2.1 or 2.0 AA as a kind of substitute measure of accessibility. Those standards involve compromises (that’s why there is an AAA standard) which means that even a website that conforms to WCAG 2.1 AA may not be accessible to all users and all assistive technologies.

    The courts have not yet resolved whether the compromise represented by WCAG 2.1 AA is good enough to satisfy the ADA or is perhaps even better than the ADA requires. As for overlays, if you don’t know what the standard is you can hardly claim to meet that standard. A claim that an overlay makes a website ADA compliant will always be false, no matter how good the overlay is.”

    Bonus Tip: To find out if your website is accessible, you can request our accessibility specialists to conduct a free site scan, by clicking here.

    If you install a screen overlay product, will you be less likely or more likely to become the victim of an ADA non-compliance lawsuit?

    For many companies, the purpose of installing an accessibility tool is to protect themselves from an ADA non-compliance lawsuit.

    But how effective are accessibility screen overlays at protecting your business? Here’s what Kim, Eli, and Richard had to say.

    Kim Testa|The Bureau of Internet Accessibility

    “Since overlays really don’t fix the issues, websites are wide open for a lawsuit. There are tools on the market that are used to identify websites that are using overlays and widgets…  

    It’s simple for lawyers to get a list and target the companies using them. There is no magical solution to becoming digitally compliant, the only way to know if a website is compliant is to have a complete audit, both automated testing and manual testing (done by individuals living with disabilities) all done at the same time.”

    Eli Freedman | accessiBe

    “If a website owner has a layover tool that does not handle the ‘heavy background lifting’ as stated above, they are definitely at a greater risk of being served a demand letter or a lawsuit.


    Reports have been received from people in the disabled community in tandem with law firms around the US are grouping together to find websites that are using layovers and targeting them with ADA lawsuits and demand letters as they too know those layovers are not making their websites accessible.”

    Richard Hunt | Hunt Huey PLLC

    “Plaintiff law firms use software scanning tools to look for non-conformance with WCAG 2.1 or 2.0 at success level AA. A product can only reduce the likelihood of a lawsuit if it makes the website look like it is in conformance when scanned by the most commonly used software tools. 

    As I understand it software scanning tools will not ordinarily trigger the accessibility features of an overlay that requires a user choice. Thus, if the website relies on the overlay to correct underlying non-conformities based on a user choice the overlay will not reduce the risk of a lawsuit. 

    It is also important to remember that software scanning tools not only miss errors, they also report false positives. For example, because a scanning tool can’t tell if an image is purely decorative it will mark a decorative image without alt text as a nonconformity even though such images are not required to have alt text under WCAG 2.1 AA. 

    To reduce the risk of litigation any solution must make the website appear perfect or almost so to the most commonly used scanning tools, whether or not that really makes the website easier to use for those with disabilities. As for plaintiffs targeting websites that use layovers, it would not be surprising if it were perceived by the plaintiff’s bar as a profitable enterprise.”

    When using a screen overlay product, can site visitors use their own assistive technology?

    Many disabled internet users have been dealing with accessible websites for a long time. Since most sites aren’t aware of their needs, they’ve had to rely on their own assistive technology to navigate the internet.

    But if a disabled user tries to use their own tools on a site with an accessibility overlay, can both systems communicate with each other?

    Kim Testa| The Bureau of Internet Accessibility

    “Yes, but as [I] stated earlier, a user may come to the website with their own assistive technology but, upon entering the site, the script will take over and force the visitor to use the overlay technology, making the user abandon their own, known assistive technology.  

    Many times when this happens the user will leave the site and never return. Companies are looking to acquire new visitors not frustrate them to the point that they leave. ”

    Eli Freedman | accessiBe

    “In most cases, yes they can, however, that does not mean that it will be completely compatible with all assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboard navigation only.

    In addition, there are certain layover tools that have screen readers embedded within their ‘solutions’ which is purely a marketing gimmick. This is actually counterproductive since those with disabilities have their own assistive technologies and the embedded screen reader’s conflict with their own technologies.”

    Richard Hunt | Hunt Huey PLLC

    “Whether a particular overlay is compatible with any particular assistive technology is not within my technical expertise. What I can say is that in general, the ADA requires that any facility be accessible to disabled individuals as they come to it; that is, with whatever technology they are accustomed to using. You can’t tell a wheelchair user, for example, that they need to switch to a mobility scooter to enter your store. 

    A similar principle exists in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines; that is, they are intended to create accessibility solutions that do not depend on the user’s choice of assistive technology to the extent that is possible. An overlay that is incompatible with the most commonly used assistive technologies, and in particular with the most popular screen readers, won’t be regarded as improving the accessibility of a website for purposes of the ADA. 

    There may be some assistive technologies so old or so rare that they do not have to be accommodated, but to satisfy the ADA an overlay must work seamlessly with the most commonly used assistive technologies.”

    Now it’s Your Turn

    At this point, you might be thinking, “Do I need an accessibility screen overlay for my website?” 

    As you just learned from experts, while you can use a screen overlay to make your website appear more accessible, it’s only helpful to a certain extent.

    Keep in mind that whether or not you use an accessibility overlay, there is still some manual remediation you’ll need to do within your website’s code.

    Before installing or remediating anything on your own, you should know if your website is ADA compliant. Request a free ADA compliance scan today by clicking the link below.

    Request A Free ADA Compliance Scan

    After our ADA specialists scan your site you’ll have the expert information needed to proceed with improving your website’s accessibility.

    As the environment around website accessibility continues to evolve, we want your business protected from an ADA lawsuit.

    Greg McNeil

    May 20, 2020
    216digital, ADA Compliance, Web Design, Website Accessibility
    ADA Compliance, ADA Lawsuit, ADA non-compliance, Website Accessibility, Website Accessibility Tools
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