Years ago, Web developers learned to avoid accessibility technologies. They no doubt had many motives, but this much is clear: those who did try found the work daunting, frustrating and destined for limited success. They were battling unsupportive browsers (notably IE), inadequate Web standards and assistive technologies (such as screen readers) with poor Web awareness.
Today, Web authors are experiencing a convergence of technologies that simplify our options for creating accessible Web sites:
- Browsers and operating systems are smarter about accessibility.
- HTML 5 clarifies and sometimes simplifies authors accessibility work.
- Screen readers and other assistive technologies are more robust.
No Excuses
The convergence is far from complete. But the bottom line is this: developing an accessible website is no longer the black art of an inner circle of wizards. It is practical in the hands of any developer who takes the time to learn the standards.
The result can be fully acceptable by everyone. Acceptable formats and eye candy. Acceptable functionality and usability. Claiming otherwise today is just an uninformed excuse.
Certainly, there is a learning curve for plunging into making your first accessible site. Some page features do require more effort to become accessible. In particular, some custom widgets are challenging to make accessible. Some details of ARIA are real head-scratchers.
This site encourages you to take the plunge.
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