Spectulise accessibility services

When the internet was first commercially available, web pages were very simple, often solely text based. Although they didn't have any of the features such as cascading stylesheets to separate content from design, design was so limited it made little difference.

As the technology advanced, more and more multimedia and special features could be included. This unfortunately made pages less accessible. An accessible website is one which ensures that the pages are accessible to all those using the site. For example those who are blind may use a ‘screen reader' such as “JAWS” or “Homepage Reader” which converts the onscreen text into speech. The ability of a screen reader to operate depends on the underlying code and objects making up a webpage. Javascript, graphics, flash and other technologies may hamper screen readers.

This doesn't just loose customers, it breaks the law. In the UK under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 it makes it illegal to discriminate against a disabled person, this includes websites whether they are selling goods or simply providing an information service.

Spectulise can help to make your site accessible using the advise provided by Government and world respected accessibility leaders. Our links with accessibility experts help to keep this information up-to-date to ensure that you are covered.

A simple change to improve accessibility is the implementation of access keys required by the UK Government, which provide a way of navigating to parts of a site, using a keyboard, using a standard convention. Other improvements include production of a site map so that all areas of the site can be seen in one go, XHML content where the content is separated from the design.