By converting PDFs into accessible formats, refining user web design, colour optimization, alt text, bilingualism, and word of mouth the Canadian Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (CCPSA) and Boccia Canada are pooling resources to create an inclusive space online for all user abilities.
Accessible Communication as the Way of the Future
In today’s digital world, where information is increasingly consumed online, it is essential that digital content creators are making their work accessible to everyone of all abilities. Where metrics are constantly following consumers online and data is always being collected in the background, the area of accessible media is a hugely untapped market. There are over 27% of the Canadian population or 8+ million people currently living with a disability with this number climbing every year (statscan). In 2024, nearly half (45%) of this population with disabilities encountered obstacles during online activities, which highlights the need for enhanced digital accessibility now more than ever, as numbers climb exponentially (statscan). In meeting these basic digital needs we are automatically tapping into a huge market that has value in our digital ecosystem, which, weirdly, remains to be seen on the Internet.
Accessibility is a journey, not a destination,” Interim Executive Director Jennifer Larson adds. “We’re committed to providing a more inclusive online experience for all users and we’re continuously learning along the way.
Accessible Website Infrastructure
Getting started doesn’t need to be a daunting undertaking. In many ways these interfaces, now more than ever, are better set up for success. Alt Text is found on almost all social media platforms today, but is rarely used by people in powerful platform command like influencers or even the general public. Making little efforts can go a long way for the consumer and the publisher.
A Ripple Effect
Through holidays like National AccessAbility Week or articles, workshops, conferences, partnerships, and online forums we can spread awareness about investing in accessibility. Most companies will talk about resource constraints, but non-profits with less budget and capacity do it every day. While we will never pretend to be perfect, many non-profits have the will and drive to serve underrepresented communities at the core, which drives their values. However, in the private sector money talks and we’re seeing now more than ever that accessibility should be put where their mouth is. An accessible website is an investment in sustainability, one that can open new market opportunities and enhance brand reputation. More than just a legal or ethical obligation, accessibility is a smart business move. Organizations that adopt accessible websites tend to see improved customer satisfaction and loyalty, which can translate into increased sales and revenue. Furthermore, accessible websites can reduce legal risks, as non-compliance with accessibility standards can lead to costly lawsuits or penalties. At the core, the numbers are showing that accessibility is the way of the future and it’s never too late to start.
Visit our WCAG AA compliant website at ccpsa.ca that we’ve worked hard at improving for several years now. The ultimate goal is reaching a WCAG of AAA compliance or “the gold standard” for website accessibility. To find out more about the coding and backend work that was involved, reach out to the Communications Lead and National Team Coordinator, Holly Janna, via email.
