Why ‘later’ can be too late

In the world of website development, accessibility often gets pushed to the back burner. “We’ll get to it later,” some say. “It’s too expensive,” others claim. But these are just excuses, fuelled by common misconceptions. Let’s debunk these accessibility myths and understand why delaying accessibility is a risky gamble.

The top six accessibility myths

Myth 1: I can do it later

This is perhaps the most dangerous myth. The idea that accessibility can be addressed “later” implies it’s an optional add–on, not a fundamental requirement. However, retrofitting accessibility is often more complex and costly than building it in from the start.

The reality: Accessibility should be integrated into every stage of website development. Delaying it can lead to costly rework, legal complications, and a damaged reputation. Remember, as websites and web technologies develop, so do accessibility standards. Delaying may mean you are constantly trying to play catch up.

Myth 2: Accessibility is too expensive

Many believe that making a website accessible requires a massive budget. This myth often stems from a lack of understanding of the long-term benefits and the potential costs of non-compliance.

The reality: While there may be initial costs, accessibility can actually save money in the long run. An accessible website reaches a wider audience, improves user experience, and reduces the risk of legal action. Plus, many basic accessibility improvements are relatively simple and inexpensive. If you’re not convinced, read the Benefits of an accessibility strategy for your UK small business.

Myth 3: My audience doesn’t need it

This myth assumes that only a small percentage of users require accessibility features. However, disabilities are more common than many realise, and accessibility benefits everyone.

The reality: Approximately one in five people in the UK have a disability. Accessibility improves usability for all users, including those with temporary disabilities, older adults, and people using mobile devices in challenging environments.

Myth 4: No–one cares about that stuff

This myth is often borne from a lack of user feedback. Just because you have not had complaints, does not mean that there are no problems. Remember, you don’t get user feedback from people who aren’t using your website because they can’t access it. Try using your site as a different person and see how good an experience it is.

The reality: People care about being included. People with disabilities are increasingly vocal about their right to access digital content. Ignoring accessibility signals a lack of respect and can alienate potential customers or supporters. Can you afford to turn away four in every 25 visitors to your site? That’s potentially how many visitors you turn away by ignoring accessibility.

Myth 5: No–one ever uses it anyway

This myth often arises from a lack of understanding of assistive technologies and how people with disabilities interact with websites. It also is borne from a misunderstanding of what accessibility improvements offer every user of your site. See the Compelling case for website accessibility for more details.

The reality: Screen readers, keyboard navigation, and other accessibility features are essential tools for many users. Dismissing their importance is dismissive of the needs of a substantial portion of the population. Often, adopting an accessibility strategy will not only improve your website for people with disabilities, but also offer improved user experience and conversions for all your users.

Myth 6: It’s just a waste of money and effort for no return

This myth completely disregards the ethical and legal obligations of website owners. Also this, the last of our last accessibility myths, is usually the last resort of someone who really doesn’t want to do the “right thing”. So, here we use business logic to appeal to the bottom line.

The reality: Accessibility is an investment in inclusivity, user experience, and legal compliance. It enhances your brand’s reputation and expands your reach. Ignoring it can lead to legal action, reputational damage, and lost opportunities. Not only that, but also a loss of traffic and potentially a loss of business. Up to 16% of the global population (higher percentages in developed countries like the UK and USA), have a disability of some kind at any time. Sometimes it might be a temporary disability (a limb in plaster, or short–term cognitive issues following an infection), but if your customer has a bad user experience then, they will remember it when they are back to full health.

The Domino’s Pizza case: a cautionary tale

The Domino’s Pizza legal case in the United States serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting accessibility. A blind man sued Domino’s because their website and mobile app were not accessible to him. The plaintiff struggled to change toppings and then couldn’t complete his purchase on the company’s iPhone app. The case went all the way to the Supreme Court, which refused to hear Domino’s appeal. This case highlighted the importance of digital accessibility and the potential legal risks of non–compliance. While this case was in the USA, the principles of equality and access are universal, and the UK has strong equality laws which have been tested in court.

The UK context: In the UK, the Equality Act, 2010 mandates that businesses make “reasonable adjustments” for people with disabilities. This includes ensuring websites are accessible. Ignoring these obligations can lead to legal action and significant financial penalties. The law applies to all businesses and traders operating in the UK or selling products or services in the UK market.