Website Accessibility: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Stay Ahead

You probably didn’t launch your website thinking about screen readers or keyboard navigation.

But in 2025, making your site accessible to people with disabilities isn’t just thoughtful — it’s becoming an industry standard. And more and more, it’s being backed by the law.

At Square Waves, we help clients stay ahead of the curve — not just to avoid issues, but because great businesses should work for everyone.

So… what exactly is “accessibility”?

Website accessibility means your site can be used by people with a range of abilities — including those who:

• Rely on screen readers (blind or low-vision users)
• Navigate with a keyboard instead of a mouse (motor impairments)
• Need visual adjustments like high contrast or larger fonts

Guidelines for accessibility are set by the WCAG 2.1 AA standards. Following them helps your site serve more people — and helps ensure you’re not unintentionally creating barriers.

Why it’s getting more attention

In recent years, courts have increasingly viewed websites as “places of public accommodation” — especially for businesses that have a physical location or offer services to the public.

That means your website is expected to be accessible, just like your storefront would be.

And yes, legal cases are happening — over 4,000 lawsuits were filed in the U.S. in 2023 alone. But this isn’t about panic. It’s about being proactive.

Our Approach: AI-Powered Accessibility, Handled for You

We’ve partnered with accessiBe, an AI-based solution that brings your website into alignment with accessibility best practices — and keeps it that way automatically.

Here’s how it works:

Real-time scanning & adjustments

The accessWidget adapts your website dynamically based on user needs, whether it’s enabling screen reader support, optimizing keyboard navigation, or adjusting contrast and font sizing.

Ongoing updates

Accessibility rules evolve. Instead of guessing what changed or hiring someone to review your site constantly, accessiBe’s AI handles that in the background.

Proof of Effort Toolkit

You also get:

• A built-in accessibility statement
• Monthly audit reports
• Documentation that shows you’re taking reasonable, proactive steps — helpful if questions ever arise

What We Offer at Square Waves

We don’t just recommend accessiBe — we manage it for you.

That includes:

• Installing and configuring the widget
• Styling it to fit your brand
• Monitoring accessibility reports
• Keeping you informed (without overwhelming you)
• Applying our Square Waves partner discount

You don’t need to know all the technicals — you just need to know it’s being handled.

Why It’s Worth Doing

• It helps your website reach more people
• It shows your business is thoughtful and modern
• It keeps you aligned with legal best practices
• It takes a task off your plate, for good

If you’re curious about where your current site stands — or want us to help you implement accessiBe — reach out anytime.

TL;DR

• Accessibility isn’t just a legal checkbox — it’s part of good web design in 2025
• Courts are expecting public-facing websites to meet accessibility standards
• We help our clients meet those standards with accessiBe, and handle it end-to-end
• Want to make sure your site is inclusive (and ahead of any issues)? We’ll take care of it

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