Accessibility is a significant word, a word that radiates independence and freedom. Everybody want to enjoy a world where they have access to all they want without stress or hindrances, the disability community has been clamoring for more accessibility in fulfillment of ADA for a long time. From the need for more accessible buildings to more accessible healthcare to accessible cities to more accessible transport systems and accessible online services, the campaign is not ending anytime soon.
Many business owners always look the other way when people with disabilities advocate for accessible online services because they don't know they are loosing billions of dollars to inaccessible online stores. Almost all businesses have space online for their products and services but businesses underutilize their online presence because their website aren't accessible to people with disabilities.
Covid-19 outbreak has made businesses understand the importance of people with disabilities which according to CDC is 1 in 5 Americans. While caregivers are observing social distancing and people staying indoors, many businesses have decided to make their online store more accessible to people with disabilities. They saw the need to turning fully to online services as the world observe social distancing.
A study conducted with 100 online businesses by DifferentAbilities on March 26, revealed that 50 online businesses that recently upgraded their online store (and made it accessible) had 100% increase in sales while the other 50 who did not upgrade their website had just 40% increase in online sales since the lockdown began.
"Just like many people who utilize a wheelchair, I cannot go out to get things by myself. My caregiver is also in self-isolation, so I went online, found an accessible online store, and bought groceries which were delivered at my door," Emmanuel Shawn, a veteran with disabilities said.
Business owners need to realize that people with disabilities want independence and freedom. They want a medium where they will be able to make choices on their own.
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