By Eve Hill
We live in an age where technology shapes our lives, influencing how we work, communicate, learn, and even relate to one another. However, not everyone experiences technology in the same way. As much as technology has opened doors, it has also created new challenges for many.
We must ensure that technology is accessible to everyone, regardless of disability. True accessibility means that technology should be a tool for empowerment, not a barrier that divides people into those who can participate and those who cannot. Accessibility in technology is not just a legal requirement; it’s a moral imperative.
Approximately 1.3 billion people globally live with some form of disability. That’s 16% of the world’s population. Accessible technology fosters inclusion, enhances user experience, and opens markets. Digital accessibility is good tech and good business. It is also the key to equality, independence, privacy, and equity for persons with disabilities.
There are about 200 million active websites in the world and more are added every minute. Of the top million homepages, 95.9% have accessibility barriers according to WebAIM in 2024. This is down from 97.8% 5 years ago.
So why hasn’t accessibility been universally adopted in the tech world? One of the key challenges is a lack of awareness and understanding. Too often, accessibility is considered a niche issue. Developers and designers may not realize the wide range of disabilities that need to be considered, and companies might not prioritize accessibility because it’s seen as costly or time-consuming.
Another significant barrier is the rapid pace of technological advancement. As we develop new technologies like artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality, we must ensure that these innovations are accessible from the outset. But because these fields are so fast-moving, accessibility is often overlooked in the rush to launch the next big thing.
These barriers must be overcome, however, as digital accessibility is a civil and human right. In the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires state and local governments, public accommodations, and employers to ensure accessibility of their communications. Recent regulations from the Department of Justice make clear that the standard for accessibility is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1, Level AA. And Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires all recipients of federal financial assistance to ensure their communications are accessible. HHS has recently issued regulations making clear that Section 504 also requires compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA And Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires WCAG 2.0 compliance for federal digital technologies.
Unfortunately, accessibility of websites and other information and communication technologies doesn’t just happen. It takes thought and planning and effort. Accessibility can be a challenge in early days, but eventually, it becomes routine – just part of what you do. It is important to create a culture of accessibility.
Technology has the power to transform lives, but only if it’s accessible to everyone. We are all responsible for ensuring that no one is left behind as we move into an increasingly digital world.
Whether you’re a designer, developer, policymaker, or simply a consumer of technology, you have a role to play in advancing accessible technology. Advocate for inclusivity in your workplace. Raise awareness in your community. Support policies that promote equal access. Together, we can create a world where technology empowers all people, regardless of ability.
Inclusivity Strategic Consulting advises organizations on internal policies, procedures, accountability mechanisms, and procurement systems that make sure technology starts accessible and stays accessible. Contact us to discuss your needs today.
About Inclusivity Strategic Consulting:
Inclusivity Strategic Consulting works to help government and private entities navigate a clear path to web accessibility to best serve all of their audiences and minimize potential liability. Inclusivity can help organizations adopt policies and procedures, priorities, and contractual requirements to make their websites and mobile apps accessible and keep them accessible into the future. Inclusivity is part of Brown, Goldstein & Levy, a leading civil rights law firm with offices in Baltimore, MD and Washington, D.C.