If you own or operate an e-commerce site in today’s digital age, you need to ensure that it’s accessible for all users. Ensuring that your e-commerce site is ADA-compliant is not just a legal requirement; it also impacts user experience, reputation, and revenue.
E-commerce sites that are accessible for all users enable businesses to reach their full customer base. For instance, if you run an online store, making it accessible for visually impaired customers will enable them to navigate your site, explore your inventory, and make purchases with ease. Here’s how to make your e-commerce site accessible for all users:
1. Simplicity is Key
The first step in making your e-commerce site accessible is simplifying navigation. Ensure that your website has clear and concise labels, well-organized product catalogs, and menus that are easy to use. When creating product descriptions, use simple language and avoid technical jargon. Additionally, your website’s search function should be easy to use, providing accurate results. All these practices will help customers with different abilities to interact with your site effectively.
2. Use Descriptive Alt Text
The value of descriptive alt text in making an e-commerce site accessible cannot be overstated. Not only is descriptive alt text an SEO best practice, but it also helps visually impaired users understand the images on your website. Descriptive alt text will enable visually impaired users to comprehend the images on your site using screen readers.
3. Accommodate Alternate Input Styles
Many people with disabilities may not be able to use the standard mouse and keyboard to navigate your website. Therefore, it’s essential to include alternate inputs that are accessible to users with different abilities. For instance, you can include a “skip navigation” link that helps users jump to content or a “keyboard-only” mode that enables people with mobility impairments to navigate your site using their keyboards.
4. Caption Videos and Audio Descriptions
Videos are essential marketing tools for online stores, educational e-learning sites, among others. However, they may present challenges for people with hearing impairments. Captions and audio descriptions will help to make your site accessible to people with hearing impairments, ensuring that they don’t miss any critical information shared through videos.
5. Readable Text
Ensure that the font size, color, and style of the text on your site are readable for all users. Users with visual impairments may have difficulty reading text written in small fonts, so make sure your site’s fonts are easy to read. Similarly, ensure that your website’s colors do not pose barriers to users, particularly those with color blindness.
In conclusion, making your e-commerce site accessible for all users will help you reach your full customer base, improve sales, and avoid legal issues. By following the tips above, you’ll create an ADA-compliant and user-friendly website that is accessible and beneficial to everyone.
