Are You Ready for the Section 508 Refresh?

Jun 3, 2018
Accessibility in Content Marketing

Welcome to Wicked Fast Marketing, your go-to agency for top-notch marketing and advertising services in the Business and Consumer Services - Marketing and Advertising sector. In this blog post, we will discuss the Section 508 Refresh and its impact on your business.

Understanding the Section 508 Refresh

The Section 508 Refresh refers to the updates made to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates that federal agencies provide accessible information and communication technology (ICT) to individuals with disabilities. The Refresh, also known as the 508 Standards, was released on January 18, 2017, and sets new accessibility standards for federal agencies and organizations that receive federal funding.

These new standards are an important step towards ensuring equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities in the digital age. It affects various types of ICT, including websites, software applications, multimedia, electronic documents, and more. Compliance with these standards is crucial for businesses and organizations to avoid legal and financial repercussions.

The Impact on Your Business

The Section 508 Refresh has significant implications for businesses operating in various industries. Here's what you need to know:

1. Accessibility Compliance

With the new accessibility standards in place, it is essential for businesses to ensure their digital properties, such as websites and applications, are designed and developed to be accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Non-compliance can result in legal actions, loss of potential customers, and damage to the brand's reputation. Wicked Fast Marketing understands the importance of accessibility compliance and can help you make your digital platforms compliant with the Section 508 Refresh.

2. Enhanced User Experience

Designing your digital assets with accessibility in mind not only ensures compliance but also enhances the user experience for all your visitors. By implementing accessible features, like alternative text for images, proper heading structures, and keyboard navigation support, you create an inclusive online environment that benefits everyone, regardless of their abilities. Our team at Wicked Fast Marketing has expertise in creating user-friendly and accessible designs that provide seamless experiences for all users.

3. Market Expansion

By meeting the accessibility requirements outlined in the Section 508 Refresh, you open up your business to a wider market segment. People with disabilities make up a significant portion of the population, and by making your digital products and services accessible, you cater to their needs and enable them to engage with your brand. This inclusivity not only helps you expand your customer base but also showcases your commitment to social responsibility.

4. Increased SEO Opportunities

Did you know that accessibility can also enhance your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts? Search engines, like Google, value websites that prioritize user experience and accessibility. By implementing accessibility features and adhering to the Section 508 Refresh, you improve your website's overall performance, which can positively impact your search rankings. Wicked Fast Marketing can assist you in optimizing your digital assets for better visibility and improved organic search results.

Partner with Wicked Fast Marketing Today

At Wicked Fast Marketing, we understand the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest accessibility standards and regulations. We are committed to helping businesses like yours navigate the complexities of the Section 508 Refresh and ensure compliance while providing exceptional marketing and advertising services.

Contact us today to learn how our team of experts can assist you in making your digital assets accessible, improving your user experience, expanding your market reach, and optimizing your SEO efforts. Let Wicked Fast Marketing be your trusted partner in achieving success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.