Web Standards and Validation
We feel there is frequently a serious misunderstanding of the word ‘accessibility’; in that it can mean both ‘multi platform’ (i.e. it works on various computer systems) and ‘disability-friendly’.
One type of accessibility does NOT necessarily mean that it meets the criteria of the second
We are extremely unhappy about the many websites companies, design houses and even academic establishments that are offering web audits using validation software that checks that site are compliant to web standards (WC3) and the claiming sites that pass are therefore accessible for people with a disability. Many of these are charging large fees for this inadequate service.
It is very easy for websites with poor text sizes, illegible colour content and seizure-inducing animations to pass web standards with ease. Some current web standards are widely acknowledged to actively contradict the needs of some disabled people.
Web Standards are a vital and significant part of encouraging good practice and longevity of websites.
However, until they are able to become synchronized with and compatible accessibility needs they remain inadequate indicators of accessibility. We believe many clients who have made the positive and affirmative action to make sure their sites are inclusive to disabled people are being “duped” that their websites are accessible. This is usually done via the WC3 button which is (self) ‘awarded’ to websites that pass automated validation.
Question: Are you just saying this as some of your sites fail validation?
No.
All our website are ALWAYS designed to initially pass all validation standards for their document type.
Some websites may then fail to validate using automated checkers. This is because:
- Whist some web standards work in opposition to many accessible design techniques and technologies we will always choose disability accessibility over standards compliance if the website requires these features.
- As a small, family run website company, we make use of many third party technologies and freelance programmers to provide our clients with extra functionality at a greatly reduced cost. Sadly, not all of these people practice accessible design principles. If you validate our sites almost all validation errors will be down to the external scripting or styling from these additions. However, almost all of the third-party companies and programmers we work with have expressed a genuine desire to adopt accessible practice. We are hopeful that we can work together to help both their devices AND our websites to be not only fully accessible but also standards compliant.
