In the digital marketplace, accessibility is crucial for inclusivity and legal compliance, particularly under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). This guide provides basics and practical steps to enhance your Shopify store's accessibility.
However, it does not replace professional legal advice, and consulting legal counsel is recommended to ensure full ADA compliance.
What Does ADA Compliance Mean for Shopify Stores?
The ADA requires businesses, including online stores, to follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for equal access to individuals with disabilities, based on four core principles:- Perceivable: Content must be accessible, including text alternatives for images.
- Operable: Navigation should support various methods, including keyboard use.
- Understandable: Website content must be clear and easy to comprehend.
- Robust: Compatibility with assistive technologies and modern browsers is essential.
Why ADA Compliance Matters for Shopify Stores
Ensuring ADA compliance for your Shopify store improves customer experience and protects against legal issues, as evidenced by a rise in lawsuits against e-commerce businesses.
Steps to Improve Accessibility in Your Shopify Store
While no single solution guarantees full ADA compliance, here are steps you can take to improve your store's accessibility:
- Choose an Accessibility-Friendly Theme Shopify offers several themes designed with accessibility in mind. These themes often include features like keyboard navigation and strong color contrast.
- Use Alt Text for Images - All images on your website should include descriptive alt text to ensure that visually impaired users using screen readers can understand what the image
- Enable Keyboard Navigation - Your Shopify store should be navigable using only a keyboard. This includes being able to select products and complete purchases without the need for a
- Provide Video Captions and Transcripts - If your store includes video content, provide captions for the hearing impaired and transcripts where applicable.
- Ensure Adequate Color Contrast - Text should be easily readable for users with visual Use a tool like WebAIM's Contrast Checker to ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
- Accessibly
- HikeOrders Accessibility Toolkit UserWay
- Accessibility Enabler
These apps provide text resizing, color contrast adjustments, and screen reader support. It's essential to review each option for your specific needs.
Disclaimer: Improving accessibility does not guarantee full ADA compliance. Consult legal experts to ensure your site meets all standards and to avoid legal issues.
Conclusion: Accessibility is an Ongoing Process
Creating an ADA-compliant Shopify store is an ongoing process that enhances accessibility for all customers and helps prevent legal issues. To ensure full compliance, it's essential to consult with experts in ADA regulations.