Standards Compliance, W3C Validation and Accessibility
What is accessibility?
Accessibility in this context refers to the ability of an assistive device (usually a screen reader) to read and translate text into audio output. Obviously, all of the visible text on a site is readable and easily translated. However, images are the problem, and accessibility requires that extra steps be taken to prepare the content for a screen reader.
Why should my site be accessible?
It's a legal requirement for UK businesses to provide an accessible web site for disabled users. A number of basic standards and techniques exist, that when implemented properly make a website accessible. Sites which are built to conform to accessibility standards are also inherently search engine friendly, so conforming to standards helps everybody.
What are web site standards and who is responsible?
Standards are set by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) which comprises member organisations from around the world and sets a series of standards for various types of code and technologies. However, while widely recognised as the standards body for the web, the WC3 has no statutory basis and compliance with its standards is not compulsory.
Why should my site comply to standards?
If your site is not accessible and validated, it may not have a consistent look or not function correctly across all browsers. This can damage the reputation of your business. By adhering to standards, sites are less likely break in newer, more compliant browsers.
What about the sites Wizzy Design build?
We build websites using the Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) standards, which separate the semantics (your site content) from the style (your site design). Our sites benefit from greater accessibility, simpler maintenance and can even be quicker to download for the end user. In the future this approach also allows for easier redesigns based upon the same content, protecting the investment you've made.
As standard, all new static website builds are checked to ensure they pass basic accessibility tests. Our Apex Content Management System provides ongoing accessibility and standards compliance with little effort, even for sites that are constantly being updated.
How can I check if my site is complaint?
Simply go to the W3C site, where you will find tools that can be used to simply and easily evaluate your site for compliance with recommended industry standards.
What can I do if I have compliancy problems?
If problems are found, then Wizzy Design can help! Wizzy Design can build, or modify existing sites, and test them thoroughly to ensure they pass accessibility and W3C validation compliancy checks.
If you want to find out more about these services, please do not hesitate to contact us.