Why the Accessibility Information Standard is Vital for Businesses
If you’re a business owner, you’ve likely heard about the Accessibility Information Standard (AIS) and its growing importance in today’s digital age. With more and more people relying heavily on technology to perform day-to-day tasks, it’s crucial for businesses to ensure that their online content and services are accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the importance of the AIS and why it should be a top priority for businesses.
Understanding the Accessibility Information Standard
The Accessibility Information Standard is a government regulation that requires businesses to provide key information and services in a format that is accessible to everyone. This includes those with disabilities such as sight or hearing loss, physical disabilities, learning difficulties, and mental health conditions. To comply with AIS, businesses must ensure that their services are available in a range of accessible formats, including audio, large print, and Braille.
The Importance of AIS for Businesses
While it may seem like an inconvenience for businesses to comply with the AIS, it’s vital for them to do so for various reasons. Firstly, it’s a legal requirement that businesses can face penalties for not meeting. Aside from avoiding fines, there are other excellent reasons businesses should be striving to meet these criteria. Not only does it promote inclusivity and positively impact their brand image, but it also opens up businesses to a wider audience and boosts customer loyalty.
Moreover, businesses that do not comply with the AIS are at risk of losing out on a significant portion of customers. According to recent studies, over 13 million people in the UK have a disability, with many experiencing barriers to accessing digital content and services. By complying with the AIS, businesses can ensure that they don’t miss out on this valuable customer base.
Examples of the Impact of AIS on Businesses
Several businesses have been making an effort to comply with the AIS and have seen positive results. A great example of this is retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S), which introduced an innovative “assistive technology” programme a few years ago. This programme includes various accessibility tools such as speech-to-text software and a support tool that enables customers to receive assistance via video chat.
The programme has been a huge success, with the retailer receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from its customers. By taking a proactive approach to implementing technology that caters to those with disabilities, M&S has demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity and gained a competitive advantage as a result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, compliance with the Accessibility Information Standard is crucial for businesses in today’s digital age. By providing accessible content and services to everyone regardless of their ability, businesses can avoid penalties, increase their customer base, boost customer loyalty, and improve their brand reputation. Incorporating assistive technologies like those implemented by M&S can also ensure that businesses gain a competitive edge in the market. It’s time for businesses to recognise the importance of inclusivity and make a concerted effort to comply with the AIS.
