Benefits of Accessible Design
Learning Goals of This Section
After reviewing this section on benefits of accessible design, you should be able to:
Discuss ways in which designing for accessibility benefits people with disabilities, society, and businesses.
Provide reasoning that justifies accessible design.
In This Section:
Benefits of Accessible Design…
For People with Disabilities
For Businesses and Organizations
For People Without Disabilities
For People with Disabilities
Accessibility Improves Lives
Accessibility has a direct, meaningful impact on daily life. It makes routine tasks easier, and in many cases, makes participation possible where it otherwise wouldn’t be. Accessibility isn’t an added feature; it’s essential.
Accessible websites allow people to manage finances, access government services, apply for school, make reservations, shop, read the news, and fully participate online.
Accessible transportation enables people to work, maintain relationships, attend events, and move through their communities independently.
Accessible architecture ensures that buildings (public spaces, businesses, and homes) can be entered and used by everyone
For Businesses and Organizations
A group of coworkers looking at a website analytics chart in an office
Accessibility Strengthens Public Perception
An accessible website demonstrates a commitment to equal access and inclusion. It sets your organization apart and signals that you take usability and fairness seriously.
Accessibility Increases Compatibility
Designing for accessibility increases compatibility across devices, browsers, platforms, and input methods. A more robust site works better for everyone.
Accessibility Supports Search Engine Optimization
Accessible design relies on clear structure and semantic HTML, which also improves search engine indexing. Users can find your content more easily.
Accessibility Expands Your Customer Base
Millions of people rely on accessible digital experiences. If your site works for them, they can engage with your content and complete purchases. Accessibility supports revenue growth.
Accessibility Increases Funding Opportunities
Many government contracts and grant programs require accessible deliverables. Demonstrating accessibility expertise and compliance strengthens your eligibility.
Accessibility Reduces Legal Risk
In many regions, digital accessibility is a legal requirement. Proactive compliance reduces the risk of complaints, lawsuits, and reputational harm.
For People Without Disabilities
Accessible Designs Improve Access for All
Here are a few examples of how accessible design benefits everyone:
Accessibility Feature Benefits for People Without Disabilities
Curb cuts on sidewalks Useful for strollers, bicycles, carts, dollies, and anyone moving items on wheels
Elevators Reduce physical strain, especially in tall buildings, and make moving heavy or bulky items easier
Dual-height drinking fountains Provide easier access for children and people of varying heights
Automatic doors Allow easy entry when carrying items or pushing carts or strollers
Reduced Burden on Family Members and Caregivers
When environments aren’t designed with accessibility in mind, family members and caregivers often need to provide more support. Tasks that should be manageable independently can end up requiring extra assistance.
For example, inaccessible print materials may require someone to read aloud to a person who is blind. If the content were available in an accessible format from the start, it could be read independently.
The Chance to Build More Friendships
Greater accessibility creates more opportunities for social interaction between people with and without disabilities. This can lead to genuine friendships, enriching everyone’s lives, not because people with disabilities are “inspirational simply for existing” (see Stella Young’s talk earlier in the course), but because meaningful connections benefit us all. Friendships like these also help reduce the anxiety or discomfort many people feel around disability.