What does accessibility mean?

The fast adoption of Information Technology has made access to information easier and cheaper especially through the Internet. As more and more information and services are delivered to the public through the Internet, we certainly do not want to exclude people with special needs from enjoying the services. Not only does an "accessible" web site improve service to people with disabilities, it also caters for readers with slow Internet connection and different kinds of browsers.

Importance and benefits of making web pages more accessible

The Internet provides a useful channel for people with disabilities to obtain information and services e.g. daily news and online shopping. It helps to expand the education and career opportunities of people with disabilities and in turn help them to live independently as full members of the community. It enables them to contribute fully to the society and compete on a level playing field. Moreover, the Disability Discrimination Ordinance prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the provision of goods, services and facilities.

Improving the accessibility of web pages not only addresses people with disabilities, it also helps to improve the general usability of a website. From the business point of view, accessible websites help companies to enlarge their customer base as their product information and services are easily accessed by people with disabilities and other customers in general.