With proper insight and planning, cities can have quality websites that serve an important role as the gateway to information and services for its residents. Since 14 million US residents suffer with visual impairments and use screen readers, then an accessible website is certainly vital for any city or municipality.
Creating an online space that caters to everyone fosters civic inclusion and paves the way for a more connected and empowered community. So let’s take a closer look at why city websites need improved accessibility.
1. Equal Access to Civic Information for All
City websites serve as the primary channel through which residents access information about public services, policies, and events. However, without adequate accessibility features, a substantial portion of the population can be left in the dark. By improving accessibility, cities can ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can easily navigate and access essential information. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and civic engagement among diverse communities.
2. Boosting Economic Opportunities
The economic impact of accessibility is significant. Accessible websites have the potential to increase a business’s market share, so when translating this to city websites, enhanced accessibility can boost economic opportunities for local businesses, tourism, and cultural events. The digital representation of city services becomes a catalyst for economic growth when it caters to the diverse needs of residents and visitors, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant community.
3. Promoting Economic Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities
Creating accessible city websites isn’t just a matter of social responsibility; it also aligns with economic empowerment. Studies show that businesses and organizations that prioritize accessibility tend to attract a broader customer base. By extension, city websites that are accessible open up economic opportunities for persons with disabilities, who can more actively participate in the local economy when they have access to relevant information and services online.
4. Meeting Legal and Ethical Standards
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in legal actions and regulatory measures to enforce digital accessibility standards. As well, it’s important to share a privacy policy on websites. Improving accessibility on city websites isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a legal and ethical requirement. Failure to comply with accessibility standards not only exposes cities to potential lawsuits but also tarnishes their reputation as advocates for inclusivity and fairness.
5. Demographic Shifts Demand Inclusive Digital Spaces
As urban populations continue to grow and diversify, city websites must evolve to reflect this demographic shift. Accessibility is not solely about accommodating individuals with permanent disabilities; it also caters to the needs of an aging population and those with situational impairments. Improved readability, adaptable font sizes, and intuitive navigation benefit not only people with disabilities but also older adults and individuals facing temporary challenges, ensuring that city websites remain relevant and usable for all.
From providing equal access to civic information to fostering economic opportunities and meeting legal standards, the benefits of an accessible website are substantial for any city or municipality. By prioritizing accessibility, cities can embrace the diversity of their populations and create a digital environment that reflects the values of inclusivity and civic responsibility. In addition to creating an accessible website, it’s important to keep it updated. If your city needs a re-brand or a new website, we’d love to hear from you today.