Kudos to Lynn Foley and Connal McNamara, co-authors of the June 4 National Law Review article “Why Law Firms Should Make Web Accessibility a Priority in 2018.” In it, they make the call for attorneys to actively inform their clients about the both the risks as well as benefits of accessibility in an effort to promote a more inclusive experience for all. They even point out the importance of building their own law firms’ websites to be as accessible as possible.
The article discusses the Americans with Disabilities Act as it relates to the digital age. Understandably, the authors also cover in some detail the burgeoning lawsuits arising from web retailers hosting inaccessible websites, and the importance of incorporating web design best practices to avoid litigation.
However, here at AFB, we prefer to focus on the more positive aspects of web accessibility. As stated in the article:
"The most effective websites are easy to use. Most visitors to a site are trying to complete an action or access information. Simplicity, and intuitive navigation, make it easy for users to engage with your firm—and that’s just good business."
While the article does a good job outlining the benefits of web accessibility best practices—legal protection, the ability to reach a broader consumer base, brand and marketing potential—there is yet another benefit the organization does not mention: the opportunity for the organization to hire and support individuals with disabilities. Sure, the IRS offers tax benefits for businesses that have employees with disabilities, but it also increases workplace diversity and dispels the myth that people with a disability are less capable than anyone else.
Studies have shown that participation by people who are blind or visually impaired in the workforce is far lower than the national average—an estimated 35% employment rate for people who are blind or visually impaired, compared to about 70% of people without disabilities. This means there is a vast pool of untapped talent on the market, highly motivated and just waiting for an opportunity.
As companies take note of the importance of accessible design and a culture of inclusion for all, there is still plenty of work to be done. AFB Consulting is here to help. We work with organizations to help maintain welcoming online environments for customers with vision loss and other disabilities. AFB Consulting's project-specific work, training, and other services enable accessibility across companies’ brands and products, ensuring they meet all standards of compliance.
