Publically displaying an accessibility log on your website shows your ongoing commitment to improving accessibility and is a powerful compliance tool. The A11y Center gives your organization the option to publically display an accessibility log. Many organizations will make their log public once they have a small series of entries to display and keep the log public as they continue to build it out.
Whether or not you make your accessibility log publically accessible, keeping a log of web accessibility work is essential for your company for several important reasons:
Documentation and Accountability
A log serves as a detailed record of the company’s efforts toward web accessibility. It provides evidence of the steps taken to comply with accessibility standards and regulations, demonstrating the company’s commitment to inclusivity and accountability.
Legal Compliance and Risk Management
In many countries, web accessibility is a legal requirement, and companies may be subject to accessibility-related lawsuits or complaints. Maintaining a log of accessibility work can help in proving due diligence and demonstrating the company’s efforts to meet legal obligations, reducing the risk of legal consequences.
Monitoring Progress and Improvement
The log allows the company to track its progress in implementing web accessibility initiatives over time. It helps measure the effectiveness of accessibility efforts and identifies areas that need further improvement.
Internal Communication and Reporting
The accessibility log facilitates communication within the organization, ensuring stakeholders know the accessibility initiatives and their status. It becomes a valuable resource for reporting to management, investors, and other relevant parties.
External Communication and Transparency
Accessibility information in the company’s public reports or website enhances transparency with customers, partners, and the broader community. It demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating an inclusive digital environment.
Training and Education
The log can serve as a training resource for new employees or teams joining the organization. It provides insights into past accessibility efforts and helps in guiding future initiatives.
User Feedback and Issue Resolution
The log can capture user feedback regarding accessibility barriers or issues. This feedback can be valuable for understanding user experiences and prioritizing areas for improvement.
Compliance Audits and Reviews
During compliance audits or external reviews, having a comprehensive log can expedite the process and make it easier to demonstrate adherence to accessibility standards.
Continuous Improvement
Keeping a log encourages a culture of continuous improvement in accessibility practices. It allows the company to learn from past experiences and apply insights to enhance future accessibility efforts. Continuously chipping away at accessibility issues and responding to new issues when they arise is one of the most important steps your organization can take to mitigate legal risk and ensure equal access for all users.
Future Planning and Budgeting
The log can inform future planning and budget allocation for accessibility initiatives. It helps the company allocate resources effectively and set realistic goals for improving accessibility.