In our increasingly connected world, the internet is a cornerstone for communication, education, employment, and social engagement. Yet, for millions of individuals with disabilities, accessing digital content can present significant challenges.  
Digital accessibility refers to designing and developing websites, apps, and digital tools that are usable by everyone, regardless of disability. This article delves into why digital accessibility is essential and how it benefits both individuals and society. 
Why digital accessibility is crucial 
For organizations, prioritizing digital accessibility is critical to achieving several objectives, including the following.   
Mitigating legal risks 
Digital accessibility is not only a moral obligation but also a legal requirement in many countries. In the United States, businesses open to the public, as well as state and local government organizations, may face legal action under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) if they fail to provide accessible digital content. In fact, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has been increasingly proactive in enforcing ADA compliance for digital platforms. 
To mitigate risks, organizations must ensure their websites, apps, and other platforms meet the needs of users with a variety of disabilities, such as visual, auditory, cognitive, and physical disabilities. 
Enhancing the user experience 
Accessible digital content is easier to use for everyone, not just those with disabilities. For instance: 
Alt text for images not only benefits users with visual disabilities, but also those browsing with slow internet connections or with images disabled. 
 
While video captions are critical for users who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, they also assist people in noisy settings or who prefer watching without sound. 
These considerations create a more seamless and enjoyable user experience for all. 
Promoting inclusivity  
Digital accessibility ensures all people have equitable access to information, products, and services, helping organizations uphold inclusive values. Beyond making a positive social impact, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility can be a boon to organizations’ reputations. 
Core components of digital accessibility 
To make digital platforms accessible, organizations should aim to conform with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the established global standard for digital accessibility. In practice, that means accounting for key considerations such as:  
Alt text: Include descriptive alt text for images. 
Captions: Provide captions for multimedia content. 
Keyboard accessibility: Ensure all functionality is operable via keyboard. 
Customizable content: Allow users to adjust text size, color contrast, and layouts to meet their specific needs. 
Compatibility with assistive technologies: Ensure users can utilize various assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to navigate a website.   
Steps to enhance accessibility 
Here’s how organizations can get started improving their digital accessibility: 
Conduct regular audits: Engage with experts to perform automated and manual accessibility checks that identify barriers and areas for improvement. 
 
Provide accessibility training: Enroll teams in workshops or consult experts for guidance on accessibility standards and legal compliance. 
 
Implement accessibility features: Incorporate features like alt text, scalable text, and keyboard navigation to create a user-friendly experience. 
 
Monitor and update: Continuously test and refine digital content to maintain accessibility as technology evolves. 
Digital accessibility: A more inclusive world for everyone 
Digital accessibility is more than a legal obligation; it’s a cornerstone of a fair and inclusive society. By ensuring digital content is accessible, organizations not only reduce legal risks but also enhance usability and foster inclusivity. Whether you’re a small business, a large corporation, or an educational institution, improving digital accessibility is a step toward a better, more equitable future for all. 
By following the best practices outlined in this piece, your organization can make a lasting impact on individuals with disabilities while contributing to a more inclusive digital world.