Website accessibility is vital for janitorial companies that distribute cleaning products. Ensuring your website is usable by everyone is not just about meeting legal requirements; it also increases customer reach, brand trust, and the overall user experience.
Let’s explore the three core areas you need to consider to boost the accessibility of your janitorial website.
#1. Compliance with Regulations
Meeting accessibility regulations is the most critical point for janitorial websites to consider. Failure to meet these standards can result in fines or even private website accessibility lawsuits.
The two primary guidelines within the US include:
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and recommends website owners follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
- Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): The WCAG was developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Janitorial websites should aim, at minimum, for WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
Janitorial website owners must ensure that users of all abilities can:
- Navigate the site easily.
- Access information about the products you offer.
- Complete transactions without excessive friction.
Taking a proactive approach to accessibility mitigates risks of fines or legal action. It also helps you demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusion.
#2. Improved Customer Engagement
Accessible websites help you improve customer engagement. In the context of a janitorial distributor's website, customers can easily find and order products. Users with disabilities might use a mix of assistive technologies, such as screen readers or keyboard navigation tools. Optimizing your site for this technology creates more seamless shopping experiences.
Here are some of the design features you include:
- Text alternatives: Alt texts for images and transcriptions or captions for video content.
- Intuitive navigation: Well-structured articles with descriptive H1, H2, and H3 headings and skip links that allow users to jump to different sections.
- Graphic elements: Sufficient contrast between text and background is essential for readability, while your website should be capable of zooming or resizing without losing any functionality.
- Content: Write in plain, simple language to ensure it’s accessible to all users.
An intuitive and user-friendly website removes friction and ensures your users can complete their objectives. You can also drive repeat business and build loyal customer relationships with an accessible website because customers who feel valued are most likely to return or recommend your company to others.
#3. Enhanced Brand Reputation
Consumers have never been more socially conscious. They value brands that display a commitment to important issues, like accessibility. Janitorial product distributors that prioritize inclusivity and equal access can get a competitive edge over their rivals and enhance their brand reputation.
Positive experiences can boost word-of-mouth, as satisfied customers recommend your website to their networks. What’s more, earning a reputation for accessibility can open the door to partnerships with similarly-minded businesses and organizations, helping your service grow organically.
Conclusion
Accessibility is a legal requirement for businesses that sell cleaning products. However, it’s also a vital component of a strong online presence. Meeting compliance standards, elevating customer engagement, and strengthening your brand reputation ensures a hassle-free and inclusive experience for the wide range of people who access your website.
As e-commerce continues to grow and evolve, janitorial distributors who prioritize accessibility become essential allies to people with disabilities while also becoming leaders within their industry. As such, embracing accessibility on your website is not just about being considerate; it’s also a smart strategy that can help your business thrive.