Accessibility refers to the practice of building websites and digital content that are inclusive and usable by individuals with a wide range of abilities. This includes accommodating users with disabilities by applying principles like semantic HTML, supporting screen readers, and ensuring compatibility with keyboard-only navigation. Accessibility also intersects with WCAG compliance, which sets standards for designing inclusive digital interfaces. These practices promote equal access and improve the usability of a website for everyone.
Digital accessibility isn’t just a matter of ethics—it’s a strategic advantage. Implementing accessible web design helps ensure that all users, including those with disabilities, can interact with your content and complete key actions like filling out a form or requesting a quote. This leads to improved usability, trust, and conversion rates across your site.
From a compliance standpoint, accessible websites align with WCAG standards and reduce the risk of legal exposure. Accessibility also strengthens your landscaping SEO efforts by improving site structure, page clarity, and technical performance—all of which contribute to better search rankings.
In advertising, it boosts the effectiveness of your Google Ads for landscapers by delivering landing pages that meet usability expectations and offer a smoother user experience, which can improve Quality Scores and lower ad costs.
Example
Imagine a website with clear headings, descriptive link text, and alt text on all images. It supports keyboard-only navigation and captions on videos. This site’s design follows accessibility principles, making it easier for a screen reader user or someone with limited mobility to interact with the content seamlessly.
By embedding accessibility into design and development, digital spaces become more welcoming and functional for everyone, no matter their abilities.
Helpful Resources
Core Standards & Guidelines
- W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
International standard adopted widely in both US and Canada for accessible digital content. - US Access Board
Independent federal agency promoting accessibility standards for information technology and built environments in the US. - ADA.gov Web Accessibility Guidance
Official site for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with guidance on website accessibility requirements in the US. - Accessible Canada Act (ACA)
The federal law in Canada aiming to make Canada barrier-free by 2040 with guidelines and resources.
Tools & Testing
- WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool
A free tool used widely across North America to check web accessibility issues. - axe Accessibility Checker
Popular accessibility testing tool used by developers in US and Canada.