6 September 2006

The economic and social implications of digital accessibility should not be "ignored", expert Jim Byrne has claimed.

Mr Byrne, a pioneer in website accessibility, has claimed that companies must take steps to ensure that disabled persons can access their online offering.

"Web developer can no longer afford to create websites that are not accessible to the broadest range of visitors," Mr Byrne asserts.

"Even if you are prepared to discount the ethical arguments, the economic implications of creating an accessible site can’t be ignored."

Although many organisations need to improve the accessibility of their website, recent research has indicated that the financial implications of the upgrade are considerable.

Peter Abrahams, the practice leader for Bloor Research, recently remarked that lack of accessibility can lead to loss of brand reputation, loyalty and custom.

Mr Byrne's publishers note that he has won several awards for his contribution to accessibility and is the founder of the Worldwide Guild of Accessible Web Designers.

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