ADA compliance refers to the guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to websites and other online resources. This includes ensuring that websites are easily navigable and understandable for users with disabilities, such as those who are blind or have low vision, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and those who have physical or cognitive impairments. ADA compliance aims to remove barriers and make the internet more accessible for everyone.
Why is ADA Compliance Important for ecommerce Stores?
If you own an ecommerce store, it's important to consider ADA compliance for several reasons.
First and foremost, it's the right thing to do. Making your website accessible to people with disabilities allows them to shop at your store just like anyone else. It's a simple matter of inclusion and fairness.
From a business perspective, being compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) also makes good sense. It allows you to expand your customer base and potentially increase your sales. Imagine being able to reach and sell to a larger group of people who may have previously been unable to shop at your store due to accessibility issues.
The Legal Implications of Non-Compliance
Unfortunately, some unscrupulous lawyers are looking to take advantage of merchants who may not be aware of the ADA guidelines or who have failed to follow them. These lawyers may threaten large merchants with costly fines and lawsuits, even if the merchant is not intentionally violating the law. In some cases, even if the merchant is not in violation, they may still be required to pay damages.
The Role of Agencies in ADA Compliance
If you're not sure where to start with making your ecommerce store ADA-compliant, working with an agency can be a great solution. An agency that specializes in accessibility can help you understand the guidelines and ensure that your website meets all the necessary requirements. They can also help you make any necessary updates or changes to your website to be fully accessible to all users.
Book a call to learn more about ADA compliance and how we can ensure your brand is aligned with the ADA guidelines.
