SEO & Accessibility: A Winning Combination

This Whiteboard Friday presentation by Lyssa explores the significant benefits of building accessible websites, not just for ethical reasons but also for SEO. The core argument is that user-friendliness, a cornerstone of accessibility, directly impacts search engine rankings. By catering to users with disabilities (visual, auditory, motor, cognitive), websites inherently improve the overall user experience for everyone. This improved experience translates into several key advantages. Higher search engine rankings are a primary benefit; search engines prioritize websites that are easily navigable and usable by a broad range of users, including those relying on assistive technologies. Increased user engagement and satisfaction also result as users find the site easier to interact with, leading to longer session durations, lower bounce rates, and improved conversion rates. The presentation doesn't explicitly detail risks of neglecting accessibility, but the implication is clear: a poor user experience due to inaccessibility leads to lower rankings, decreased engagement, and potentially legal repercussions. Different aspects of accessibility, such as providing alt text for images, using proper heading structures, and ensuring keyboard navigation, are likely discussed (although specifics aren't provided in the excerpt). The presentation emphasizes a proactive approach: designing for accessibility from the outset rather than as an afterthought. No specific examples of websites are mentioned in the given excerpt, but the overall message advocates for a holistic approach to web design, prioritizing inclusivity and user experience as a path towards improved SEO performance. In essence, the presentation makes a strong case for viewing accessibility not as an added cost or burden, but as a strategic advantage that enhances both the ethical and business aspects of website development.

(Source: https://moz.com/blog/the-accessibility-advantage-whiteboard-friday)