In recent news, Beyonce’s firm is facing a major lawsuit because her website, beyonce.com, is not ADA compliant. The suit alleges that Beyonce.com violates the Americans with Disabilities Act because it is not equipped with technology that allows visually impaired individuals to use it without assistance. Mary Connor, who according to her statements, has no vision whatsoever, claims that the website isn’t accessible for those with disabilities because it is missing the coding that allows for text to be read aloud, images to provide alt-text as well as other ADA compliant standards.
The Department of Justice published the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design in September 2010. These standards state that all electronic and information technology must be accessible to people with disabilities. The ADA is the reason we have wheelchair ramps, disabled parking requirements and inclusive mandates for most businesses. As the internet progresses, so are the ADA’s standards on usability.
Having an ADA compliant website is crucial for your business. Here’s why:
- You can avoid penalties and lawsuits
- You can increase your target audience
- You improve your overall reputation
- You improve your SEO on your website
- You improve website accessibility and usability
But, really – if you like it, then you should put accessibility on it. It will pay off in the long run. Visit dezinsinteractive.com or email us at info@dezinsinteractive.com to learn more about making your website accessible to all people.