Summary:

Pick a web site builder that helps, not hinders

Who it helps: 

• People with disabilities will benefit from the content

• You will benefit from a simpler build process

• Everyone benefits when in disabling situations such as bright sunlight or distraction

Additional benefits:

An accessible website will also improve your search engine optimization (how many searches find your site) and AI optimization (how many AI tools can analyze your site). These improve your reach.

When you create a website, the most important decision you will make is what platform and management system you will use. In addition to cost and ease of use, you should also consider the ability to create accessible content. 

To quickly evaluate options, look for the following features when evaluating sites:

• The ability to add alt text. Try adding an image to the site. Is there a box that allows you to add alternative text that is easy to find?

• Accessible themes. Look for accessible themes or color schemes, including schemes with adequate color contrast between the text and background. Clearly labeled options or the ability to test your options indicates the builder has thought about accessibility.

• Keyboard navigation. Test out the keyboard navigation. Find a site built with that builder or preview a template. Use the tab key on your keyboard to navigate the site. Can you tell where you are? Can you get to everything? If not, avoid that website builder unless you can find an option that supports keyboard users. 

Accessible Community is in the process of evaluating the accessibility of popular website builders and will be posting our results later this year. To learn when we do, sign up for the Accessible Community Newsletter.