The web started out its life as a collection of simple HTML pages which were, by nature, accessible. Many people with disabilities latched onto the web as a revolutionary new way for them to communicate. However, since the commercialisation and diversification of the Web, it has gradually become less and less accessible with many sites relying on the use of a particular browser, broadband connection speeds or proprietary software.
Some people with disabilities use Assistive Technology like magnification software, screen readers (speakable browsers) and desktop Braille displays to access the Web. Many more others simply modify their browser settings to their own preferences. It is therefore very important that Web sites and other online content functions with assistive technologies as well as being customisable and functional without a mouse.
The vast majority of online content falls far short of these and other requirements for accessibility.
There have already been a few cases worldwide where organisations have been taken to court by individuals who feel that they have been disadvantaged by not being able to gain access to a web site. In the UK, most disputes have been and still are being settled out of court so the full implications of the law are still very uncertain. With regard to commercial intranets and extranets, any inaccessibility issues will already have been contravening the Disability Discrimination Act for several years.
The first rule of web accessibility is that designers should not make assumptions about who may be viewing a web site and what equipment they may be using. Most people will have come across a web site which instructs them to get a newer browser or to download a plug-in. This may not be convenient for the majority of users let alone a person with sight impairment using a specialist spoken screen reader to access the web.
Web accessibility advocates also aim to assure designers, programmers, project managers and marketing managers that good accessibility practice doesn't necessarily mean bland and boring web sites.
It is more a case that following accepted guidelines for design and programming should result in legal compliance and reach the maximum possible audience. Well designed HTML documents that distinguish structure and presentation will not only be more accessible, but will also adapt more easily to new technologies as they emerge.
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) issue guidelines which, if followed, should make web sites more accessible to specialist users and less frustrating for more 'regular' users. By following these guidelines and using other accessibility tools, designers and programmers can create online content that is not discriminatory, more immune to future litigation and also available to the widest possible audience. So, there is a strong business case as well as a moral and legal one.
The Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) is part of the W3C and offers specialist accessibility guidelines.
Copyright © 2005 Tim Jones
About the Author
Tim Jones, founder of Jones Coaching and Consulting is a designer and software trainer and has been studying and practicing accessibility issues since 2001. Visit his site for information and contact details: www.jonescc.com