If you sell goods and services online, you know how important it is to maintain your e-commerce platform. Online shoppers spent an average of 2.74 U.S. dollars per visit at the end of 2023, making an online presence beneficial for retailers.
While you’re making sure your website is up-to-date, you should also be ensuring it’s accessible for users living with disabilities.
Shopping websites are notorious for accessibility complaints and lawsuits. However, this has greatly improved from 90.5 errors to 72.1 errors on average over three years — but it remains among the least accessible (WebAIM).
Creating an accessible e-commerce platform is critical for providing an inclusive digital shopping experience that all customers, including those with disabilities, can access and use online stores without barriers. Not only is it ethically the right thing to do, but it also helps to avoid costly lawsuits.
Here are some key ways to ensure your e-commerce platform is accessible:
Develop a responsive design
Ensure your website is responsive and able to adapt to different screen sizes and devices so users with varying abilities and those using different devices can access your platform.
Intuitive navigation
Implement a clear and logical site structure with easy navigation. Examples include providing a sitemap and using descriptive labels for navigation links.
You can also use headings and subheadings to make it easier for screen readers and users with cognitive disabilities to understand the content.
Create keyboard accessibility
Ensure that all functions can be accessed and operated using just a keyboard. Keyboard navigation is important for users with motor disabilities who do not use a mouse.
Add alt text for images
Include descriptive alt text for all images. This helps users with visual impairments understand the content and benefits the practice of search engine optimization (SEO).
Provide readable text
Use legible fonts and provide options for users to adjust text size. Consider high contrast between text and background colors for better readability.
Clearly label forms and input fields
Ensure all form fields have clear labels and instructions. You should also provide:
- Error messages that are both visually and programmatically accessible
- Upon completing a form, you will receive an indication that the action has been completed
Add captioning and transcripts
If your platform includes videos, provide captions and transcripts to make the content accessible to users with hearing impairments or those who prefer text-based content.
Create an accessible shopping cart
Ensure that the shopping cart and checkout process are accessible by clearly labeling form fields and buttons and providing feedback on the user's order status.
Testing with assistive technologies
Regularly test your website with assistive technologies, like screen readers, voice recognition software, and alternative input devices, to guarantee compatibility and usability.
Be compliant with accessibility standards
Familiarize yourself with and adhere to accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Following these guidelines will help your platform be accessible to a broad audience.
Allow user feedback and provide an accessibility statement
Encourage user feedback and provide a way for users to report accessibility issues. It’s also a good idea to include an accessibility statement on your website that outlines your commitment to accessibility and provides contact information for users to report problems.
Continue ongoing accessibility maintenance
Regularly review and update your website to maintain accessibility as technology and standards evolve. This includes keeping third-party plugins and tools used on your platform accessible.
By incorporating these tips, you can create a more accessible e-commerce platform that welcomes users of all abilities and provides a positive shopping experience for everyone.
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