The Importance of Accessibility: A Conversation with Jimmy Schrepel on Digital Inclusion
As the digital world continues to evolve, accessibility has become a critical consideration for websites and online content. Jimmy Schrepel, Partnership Manager at AccessiBe, joined the How to Avoid the Annual Crisis video series to discuss how AI-powered tools are revolutionizing web accessibility, the common pitfalls organizations face, and best practices for ensuring inclusive digital experiences.
Making Accessibility a Priority
Accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s about ensuring everyone can navigate your website safely and effectively," Jimmy emphasized. At the core of accessibility lies the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which provide a global framework for making web content accessible to people with disabilities. AccessiBe’s solution leverages AI and user-friendly interfaces to help organizations comply with these guidelines while maintaining creative freedom in web design.
Jimmy outlined some of the most common accessibility issues, including missing image descriptions, inaccessible dropdown menus, and unlabelled buttons. "As designers, it’s easy to prioritize aesthetics, but that vision can unintentionally leave certain users behind," he noted. Tools like AccessiBe’s widget help bridge this gap, ensuring websites are navigable by assistive technologies while allowing users to customize their experience.
Best Practices for Accessible Web Design
Jimmy shared practical advice for creating accessible websites:
- Descriptive Content: "Be as descriptive as possible when tagging images or writing content. It doesn’t need to be Pulitzer-level, but it should provide clear context," he said.
- Keyboard Navigation: Using the Tab key to navigate a site can quickly reveal accessibility gaps. "If you can’t tab through your site seamlessly, it’s a sign there’s work to be done."
- Avoid Generic Buttons: Buttons labeled "Click Here" or "Learn More" can be confusing. "Clear and specific labels help all users, especially those relying on screen readers," Jimmy explained.
- Dynamic Features: Sliders, carousels, and accordions should follow a logical order and include proper tags to ensure users with disabilities can interact with them effectively.
He also highlighted tools like Google Lighthouse and Wave by WebAIM, which provide actionable insights into accessibility issues, and stressed the importance of regularly monitoring websites for compliance as content evolves.
Proactive Accessibility Efforts
Jimmy underscored the value of being proactive. "An accessibility statement on your website isn’t just about compliance—it’s about showing users you’re making an effort," he said. These statements not only outline the steps an organization has taken to improve accessibility but also provide a channel for users to report issues, fostering open communication and trust.
Organizations should also keep documentation, such as audit reports, to demonstrate ongoing efforts toward accessibility. "Honesty is the best policy," Jimmy remarked. "If you’re showing effort, people are more likely to work with you constructively rather than escalating issues to governing bodies.
The Role of AI in Accessibility
Tim shared a poignant story about one of Tellwell’s authors, Heather Stuka, whose book arose from personal tragedy. After her son went missing, Heather turned her grief into action, launching a nonprofit and writing a book to help others facing similar crises. "She built resources to guide families with missing loved ones, creating awareness and support where none existed before," Tim said. This story exemplifies how storytelling can inspire profound change and provide solace in challenging times.
Looking Ahead
Accessibility is more than a legal requirement—it’s a commitment to inclusion. As Jimmy concluded, "Accessibility shows that people with disabilities are heard. By making these efforts, organizations not only protect themselves but also build a stronger, more inclusive brand."
For organizations navigating the complexities of web accessibility, the message is clear: be proactive, use the right tools, and remember that accessibility is an ongoing process. By prioritizing inclusion, businesses can create digital experiences that welcome everyone.