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Understanding eCommerce Accessibility:

Ecommerce accessibility entails designing and developing online stores that cater to users with disabilities. This involves ensuring compatibility with assistive technologies, providing alternative text for images, facilitating keyboard navigation, and adhering to WCAG, ADA, and AODA requirements.

Do eCommerce Sites Need ADA Compliance? While ADA regulations don't explicitly mandate online store compliance, courts often interpret accessibility as necessary. Thus, ADA compliance is essential to avoid legal repercussions and ensure inclusivity.

The Benefits of WCAG/ADA/AODA Compliance:

1. Improved User Experience: Enhanced navigation and comprehension lead to increased engagement and prolonged website visits.
   

2. Expanded Audience Reach: Accessibility initiatives accommodate users who were previously excluded, broadening your market.
   

3. Increased Sales: Removing barriers and improving user experience can drive higher sales on your online store.
   

4. Legal Compliance: Mitigate legal risks associated with accessibility issues by adhering to WCAG/ADA/AODA standards.
   

Accessibility and SEO:

WCAG/ADA/AODA compliance positively impacts SEO by improving user experience, leading to better search engine rankings. Clear and organized website structures enhance crawlability and indexing, further boosting search visibility.

How to Make Your eCommerce Website Accessible:

Begin with an accessibility audit to identify areas for improvement. Implement necessary changes based on the audit results, either independently or with the assistance of a professional web development team.

Implementing Accessibility on Popular Platforms:

Major eCommerce platforms offer built-in tools and features to ensure accessibility, including Shopify, Bigcommerce, WooCommerce, Magento, and OpenCart.

Conclusion: Why eCommerce Accessibility Matters:

Ecommerce accessibility is vital for legal compliance and expanding your customer base. Failure to comply with accessibility standards can result in legal consequences and hinder business growth. Embracing accessibility initiatives not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances user experience and drives business success.

For an assessment of your website's compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards, request a quote for an eCommerce accessibility audit. Additionally, explore our website accessibility policy template for further guidance.