25 December 2006

A website's accessibility could be pivotal to its success in reaching elderly Internet users, according to a new report.

Designing an e-commerce or information website which complies with accessibility standards can therefore reach a wider demographic - incorporating elderly individuals and those with physical impairments, states the Mature Market.com.

In addition to accessibility concerns, web designers should put usability at the forefront of their plans, as the average site is twice as difficult for mature users to navigate, the publication claims.

"The success of a site targeting online boomers [50 to 64-year-olds] is often driven by the information architecture and visual design," it asserts.

"Design elements to be considered include the appropriate use of fonts, contrast, white spacing and the implementation and integration of animations."

Earlier this month, product management specialist Hybris claimed that improved accessibility would allow more "socially sympathetic" websites to emerge - tapping into new e-commerce opportunities.

© Adfero Ltd

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