look good (and feel good too)
On the surface
These days, image is everything, and everyone wants to look good, and all too often accessibility is thought of as a barrier to good design, but it doesn't have to be like that.
When accessibility is truly integrated into the design process, it doesn't stick out, or harm the aesthetics of the design, and in some cases, can actually enhance it.
Beyond aesthetics
In business, everyone needs an edge. A unique selling point.
In recent years, awareness of accessibility has increased, and accessibility requirements are beginning to be included in procurement documents. Having an accessible website, or accessible documents can differentiate your business from your competitors.
A demonstrable commitment to accessibility not only protects you from a legal standpoint, but it can also protect you from bad press and damage to your reputation.
River Island
In 2006, River Island relaunched their website to great fanfare. Unfortunately, the site was completely inaccessible, not just to blind and partially sighted people, but the interface, designed entirely in Flash, also did not work for users who can't use a mouse.
The backlash in the media press and across the accessibility community was immediate, and River Island were forced to put an apology up on their site, promising that changes would be made within three months.
Three years on, the River Island site remains inaccessible, the apology remains in place, and the damage to their reputation (and potentially their profit margin) continues.
- River Island apology to disabled customers
- March 2006 article on River Island site relaunch
- March 2008 article on River Island's continued accessibility issues
- Telegraph article on River Island profit slump
Looking good isn't the only benefit. Accessibility can make you fitter, happier and more productive too.