Insight
4.16.2025

From Risk to Reach: The Business Case for Accessible Websites in 2025

A Guide for Marketing and Business Leaders

More than 56% of websites fail basic accessibility tests. That's not just a technical issue—it's a significant risk to your brand, users, and bottom line.

At Tennis, we help organizations build inclusive, compliant digital experiences—and we know that web accessibility can feel overwhelming. That's why we launched a new video series on accessibility to help marketers, executives, and digital teams understand what matters, what's changing, and how to take the first step.

Why Website Accessibility Matters in 2025

Digital accessibility is no longer optional—it's a baseline for modern digital strategy. If your website isn't accessible, you're leaving people out. That includes users with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments. As regulations tighten worldwide, there could also be legal consequences.

What's driving this urgency?

  • Web accessibility lawsuits are on the rise. In the U.S., over 4,000 lawsuits were filed in 2023 under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  • AODA (Ontario), ADA (U.S.), and the new European Accessibility Act apply to organizations offering digital services internationally—regardless of where they're based.
  • An inaccessible site signals exclusion. Customers notice. Investors notice. Search engines notice.

At the same time, the benefits of accessibility are well worth the effort:

  • Improved SEO performance through structured content and semantic markup
  • Expanded reach to the 1 in 4 adults who experience disabilities
  • Enhanced brand reputation and trust with modern, values-driven consumers

Understanding AODA, ADA, and WCAG—Without the Jargon

You don't need to memorize acronyms—but here's the quick need-to-know:

  • If your company has 50 or more employees in Ontario, AODA requires that your public website be accessible.
  • If you operate in or serve customers in the United States, your site must comply with the ADA—or you could face legal action.
  • Both laws reference the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)—the international standard for web accessibility.

Run a Free Accessibility Audit in Seconds

To help teams quickly assess their digital risk, we've partnered with accessiBe to launch a free website accessibility audit tool. In just a few seconds, you'll get an at-a-glance report showing where you're doing well—and where to focus your improvements. Whether you pass with flying colours or find a few red flags, this gives you the clarity to take meaningful next steps.

👉 Check your website accessibility now

You'll get instant, actionable feedback on:

  • Contrast ratios
  • Alt text usage
  • Keyboard navigation
  • Site structure and more

Whether you pass or find gaps, the scan gives you clarity on your next move—and a head start on building a more inclusive digital experience.

A Message to Marketing, Design, and Technology Leaders

Website accessibility isn't just a technical concern or a legal checkbox. It reflects your brand's values and readiness to scale. We built this campaign to help you do that—without the overwhelm. You don't need to overhaul everything today; you just need to take that first step:

Authors
Symon Oliver
Design Director

10 years in design, focusing on research, digital consulting, and leading digital projects at Tennis.

Marcello Gortana
Executive Director

Working with business leaders to leverage design and technology to make change within their organizations.

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