Ideal Postcodes launches WAI-ARIA compliant Postcode Lookup and Address Finder solutions, making functionality accessible for visually impaired users.
Web accessibility allows visually impaired users to understand content, contribute and interact with websites comfortably. In the UK, there are almost 2 million people living with sight loss¹. Having an accessible website gives everyone equal opportunities to navigate content online.
Visually impaired users may require assistive technology to access web content and applications, usually in the form of a screen reader. This is why we have ensured that our solutions provide functionality to comply with assistive technology.
Web accessibility for e-Commerce
The goal of providing accessibility for e-Commerce websites is to create an online store that everyone can use. This includes every page where a user needs to input data. For example, the checkout page is the last but one of the most important steps in the online shopping experience. Shoppers with visual challenges may find it difficult to complete a checkout if they are unable to submit their address information. This can lead to an increase in cart abandonment and unsatisfied customers. All form fields require proper labels and error messaging.
Why it is important
-
It is a respectful and smart business practice to provide an accessible e-Commerce store so that you can reach all your customers without adding challenges to some.
-
There is a legal principle in the UK to provide equal accessibility for products or services. The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. Companies can be sued under the Equalities Act 2010 for failing to provide accessibility.
-
Providing an enjoyable shopping experience for visually impaired users leads to additional sales and client retention.
¹ NHS UK