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Why is Web Accessibility Needed?

Web accessibility is necessary so that people with disabilities are able to input or receive information. Accessibility is the measure of how easy a web resource is to access, read, and understand. It involves connection time, presentation style, and HTML markup. Adaptive technology is an alternative method of accessing computer-based information. Some examples are scanners, screen reading software, and voice input software.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 requires that U.S. programs and services be accessible to individuals with disabilities. A 1996 Department of Justice ruling makes it clear that ADA accessibility requirements apply to Internet resources. Software should allow fonts to be adjusted, provide clear contrast for objects that students must locate and manipulate, include keyboard commands to reduce mouse dependence, and provide a system cursor that moves with important screen events so that magnifiers can track them. Web page designers should consider the special needs of persons with disabilities, older persons, people for whom English is a second language, and those using outdated software and hardware.

The World Wide Web Consortium (WC3), a private standard-setting body, has established guidelines for the development of the Web so there will be an open information delivery system. It has recently established the Web Access Initiative (WAI), which focuses on the access needs of Web users with disabilities. Federal legislation including section 504 and The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) requires that information on Web pages be made accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities, including vision and hearing impairments, dexterity problems, color blindness and rare conditions such as photosensitive epilepsy triggered by rapidly flashing lights. Public institutions must make their Web sites accessible, and make sure that when they purchase new computer hardware and software, the machines and programs can be adapted for use by persons with disabilities. Web access is consistent with other aspects of accessibility including building entrances, braille, sign language interpreters and transportation for instance.