Some tips to make online shopping accessible for disabled people

In today’s world, everything is available just a click away, especially shopping.You do not have to waste time in long queues or walk around to pick up what you want. They are all available online. However, many online retailers overlook the accessibility aspect of their websites. This is a mistake as they are losing out on a large number of customers!

I have felt that online shopping portals are very helpful. Everything is available in one website and you do not have to visit different shops. Just like anyone else, even I have had some bad experiences. But I feel services are getting better now. I live in a rural area. There are services this side as well! – Unni Maxx, Secretary, Thanal Paraplegic Welfare Society.

Here are a few things that online retailers need to look out for so that their disabled customers can have a great shopping experience.

• Create an inclusive user experience – Everybody loves shopping! Hence, retailers must ensure that all their services are disabled-friendly. To start with, make your customers service staff informed so when a disabled person calls to ask about something related to accessibility on your website, your staff does not sound confused!
• Description of images- We check out a product and its quality a lot of times before buying. So how does a blind person buy things online? There are many online stores that top in accessibility. Retailers must ensure that even blind customers can buy products without any hassles. This can be done easily by providing descriptions of images!
• Keep a tab on colour schemes- There are many people with low vision who are regular online customers. What kind of colours does the website use to cater to people with low vision?
• Get better captions for products- According to a survey, 85% people on Facebook watches videos without playing the audio. You must ensure that your products have better captions. Otherwise you are losing out on a lot of customers with and without disabilities.

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