A guide to defending accessibility to skeptical stakeholders

Promoting accessibility in website and product design is crucial, as it benefits everyone and addresses the needs of the largest minority group in the world. Despite common misconceptions that accessibility is too costly and unnecessary, evidence shows that early integration of accessible design not only avoids costly legal repercussions but can also enhance brand growth and innovation. Reports indicate that many websites fail to meet accessibility standards, with a rise in related lawsuits highlighting the legal and ethical importance of accessibility. While able users outnumber less able users, the latter group represents a significant portion of the population, underscoring the need for inclusive design. Addressing the various types of disabilities through guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) can help designers create more inclusive experiences. Additionally, businesses risk losing customers if they ignore accessibility, as many users will not report difficulties but will simply abandon the site. Embracing accessibility from the start can lead to financial benefits and improved user experiences, as demonstrated by successful case studies where accessibility enhancements resulted in increased web traffic and reduced maintenance costs.