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We often get asked about ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. For that reason, and knowing the new ruling from the DOJ is in effect, we found it may be helpful to share some high-level steps you can take to work to be and stay compliant.

First ... What is Web Accessibility?

“Web accessibility refers to making websites usable for people with disabilities. It involves designing and developing websites in a way that people with disabilities, such as those with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments, can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the website and its content.

Web accessibility ensures that everyone has equal access to information and services on the web, regardless of their abilities. This includes individuals who use assistive technologies, such as screen readers, to access the web.”

Structured Approach to ADA Compliance for your Website

To ensure your website is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant, particularly with the recent updates from the Department of Justice (DOJ), you should follow a structured approach. The DOJ ruling reinforces the importance of accessibility, and websites must be built to be usable by all people, including those with disabilities.

Here are the key steps you can take to achieve compliance:

1. Understand WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)

WCAG 2.1 is the standard for web accessibility, and it serves as the foundation for ADA compliance. The guidelines are organized into four principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR).

There are three levels of conformance: A, AA, and AAA. Level AA is typically the target for ADA compliance.

2. Audit Your Current Website

Conduct an accessibility audit: You can either perform an audit using automated tools (e.g., WAVE, Axe, Lighthouse) or hire an accessibility expert.

Look for common issues such as:

    • Missing text alternatives for images (alt text).
    • Poor contrast between text and background.
    • Inaccessible navigation (keyboard accessibility).
    • Missing or incorrect heading structure.

3. Ensure Keyboard Navigation

Make sure all interactive elements (forms, buttons, links, etc.) can be accessed and operated without the use of a mouse. This is crucial for users with motor disabilities.

Test if all parts of your site can be navigated using only the keyboard (Tab, Shift+Tab, Enter, Space, etc.).

4. Add Alt Text for Images

Provide descriptive alternative text for all images and non-text content (e.g., infographics, buttons, etc.).

Ensure the alt text is clear and meaningful to a visually impaired person who uses screen readers.

5. Use Proper Headings and Semantic HTML

Organize content using heading tags (H1, H2, H3) to structure your content. This helps users with screen readers understand the layout and hierarchy of information.

Use semantic HTML for elements like buttons, links, forms, and landmarks.

6. Ensure Color Contrast and Text Resizing

Ensure that text contrasts sufficiently with the background to be easily readable by individuals with visual impairments. A common standard is a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text and 3:1 for large text.

Allow text to be resized without losing content or functionality.

7. Provide Captions and Transcripts for Multimedia

If your site includes video or audio content, provide captions for videos and transcripts for audio. This ensures users who are deaf or hard of hearing can access the information.

Consider providing sign language interpreters or audio descriptions for complex multimedia content.

8. Improve Form Accessibility

Label form fields clearly and ensure they are associated with their respective input elements.

Use proper error handling and provide clear, accessible error messages to guide users.

9. Make Interactive Elements Accessible

All interactive elements, such as buttons, links, dropdowns, and forms, should be accessible and have focus indicators visible.

Ensure that users can access modal windows, dialogues, and overlays via keyboard navigation and screen readers.

10. Conduct User Testing

Test your site with real users who have disabilities to identify potential barriers.

Ensure that your site works well with assistive technologies, such as screen readers (JAWS, NVDA), and accessibility tools like voice navigation or eye-tracking devices.

11. Provide an Accessibility Statement

Include an accessibility statement on your website that outlines your commitment to accessibility. The statement should provide a contact point for feedback and describe the steps you're taking to improve the accessibility of your website.

12. Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring

Website accessibility is not a one-time fix. Regularly test your site for compliance, especially when you add new content, features, or design elements.

Set up a process for keeping up with any changes in WCAG or legal requirements regarding accessibility.

13. Consider Legal Risks and Stay Updated

With the DOJ’s ruling, the risk of legal action for non-compliance has increased. It's important to monitor any future updates to the DOJ's enforcement of the ADA or other related legislation.

While ADA compliance is not always straightforward, aligning with WCAG guidelines reduces the risk of legal challenges.

By following these steps, you’ll make your website more accessible, inclusive, and compliant with the latest DOJ rulings on ADA compliance.