- In 2018, the Australian Government Department of Human Services conducted a website accessibility audit and found that their website had numerous accessibility issues, including insufficient color contrast and missing alt tags. As a result, they made significant changes to their website, including a redesign of the website’s layout and improving accessibility for users with disabilities.
- In 2019, the National Association of the Deaf filed a lawsuit against Harvard University for their website’s lack of accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. As a result of the lawsuit, Harvard University conducted an accessibility audit of their website and made significant improvements to make their website more accessible to users with disabilities.
- The UK’s Government Digital Service (GDS) conducted an accessibility audit of the government’s website in 2018. The audit identified a number of accessibility issues, including poor color contrast, lack of headings, and confusing navigation. The GDS team made significant improvements to the website to address these issues, resulting in a more accessible website for all users.
- Legal Compliance: In many countries, including the United States and the European Union, web accessibility is required by law. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal action, fines, and reputational damage. Conducting WACG audits can help businesses ensure they comply with these regulations and avoid legal consequences.
- Inclusivity: Websites that are not accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, are excluding a significant portion of the population. Conducting WACG audits and making necessary improvements can ensure that websites are inclusive and provide a better user experience for all.
- Business Benefits: Making a website accessible can lead to increased engagement, improved user experience, and higher conversions. By conducting WACG audits, businesses can identify accessibility issues that may be hindering their website’s performance and make improvements to increase engagement and conversions.
- Social Responsibility: Businesses have a social responsibility to ensure that their websites are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. By conducting WACG audits, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and create a positive impact on society.
- Competitive Advantage: In today’s digital age, accessibility can be a significant competitive advantage. Businesses that prioritize accessibility can differentiate themselves from their competitors and attract a broader range of customers.
In summary, WACG audits are crucial for legal compliance, inclusivity, business benefits, social responsibility, and competitive advantage. By conducting audits and making necessary improvements, businesses can ensure their websites are accessible to all users, improve user experience, and create a positive impact on society. Website accessibility is a critical aspect of modern web design, and it is essential that businesses and organizations ensure their websites are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. By conducting accessibility audits and making improvements, businesses and organizations can create a better online experience for everyone.