Ignoring Accessibility Is Costing Your Agency — Here’s How to Fix It

Key Takeaways: 

• Agencies should position accessibility as a business growth driver, not just a compliance necessity — helping clients improve brand trust, expand market reach, and boost site performance.
• Agencies can minimize risk by making accessibility an explicit client decision — either adopting solutions or accepting full legal responsibility.
• Low-barrier offers like free audits or discounts can shift client perception, demonstrating accessibility as a smart investment rather than an expense.

Digital accessibility is no longer optional — it’s an essential part of doing business. 

As lawsuits increase and consumer expectations shift, agencies that proactively offer accessibility solutions stand to gain a competitive advantage.

In an interview with DesignRush, he shares his insights on why accessibility should be a strategic priority for businesses. 

Who Is Ran Ronen?

Ran Ronen is the CEO of Equally AI, where he leads the company's mission to make digital accessibility both simple and inclusive. As a member of the Forbes Business Council, with a background in entrepreneurship and a passion for innovation, Ran is dedicated to developing solutions that ensure equal access to digital content for all users. His leadership at Equally AI reflects his commitment to social impact and technological advancement, setting new standards in the digital accessibility industry.

Web accessibility lawsuits under the ADA are rising, with 4,605 cases filed in 2023 — a 42% increase from the previous year.

Furthermore, businesses that fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) face significant financial penalties, legal fees, and reputational damage.

Ran emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of regulations, and leveraging videos from top news outlets that highlight the increasing lawsuits and fines in relation to web accessibility:. 

Of course, prioritizing web accessibility isn’t just about compliance. It’s also a competitive advantage that agencies can’t afford to overlook. 

By helping clients avoid legal risks while enhancing user experience and expanding their audience, agencies can position themselves as strategic partners in driving business growth.

The Growing Need for Accessibility Compliance

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, people with disabilities control over $175 billion in discretionary spending. 

This is why agencies offering web development and digital marketing services must also consider their liability. 

In the same vein, brands that prioritize accessibility position themselves as ethical, customer-focused, and innovative.

Ran emphasized the importance of mitigating liability with client agreements by offering clients with a clear choice: 

From Compliance to Business Strategy

Many businesses perceive accessibility as a burdensome requirement, but Ran urges them to see it differently. 

However, agencies should present accessibility as a long-term investment similar to SEO or cybersecurity.

By reframing accessibility as a strategic advantage rather than a regulatory burden, agencies can help clients improve their brand reputation, expand audience reach, and enhance website performance.

One way to do this, Ran notes, is by developing unique branding and processes. 

Working with reputable accessibility experts like Equally AI also ensures businesses receive top-tier solutions.

Driving Adoption with Smart Incentives

Businesses often hesitate to invest in accessibility due to cost concerns. 

Ran notes that offering free initial audits or limited-time discounts are a good remedy to this, and can encourage adoption. 

Making accessibility easy to implement reduces resistance from clients.

Likewise, demonstrating real-world accessibility gaps — such as how an inaccessible website can prevent customers from completing purchases — makes the issue more tangible.

Additionally, it’s important for agencies to showcase how inclusive and accessible design benefits all users, not just those with disabilities.

Agencies can provide structured roadmaps, implementation timelines, and ongoing support to ensure clients see the process as manageable rather than overwhelming.

The Future of Digital Accessibility

Web accessibility is no longer a niche concern — it’s a business imperative. 

Companies that embrace accessibility today will gain a competitive edge, avoid legal pitfalls, and create a more inclusive online experience for everyone.

As regulatory enforcement increases and consumer expectations evolve, accessibility will become a standard requirement rather than a differentiator.

Businesses that act now will not only future-proof their operations but also cultivate a reputation for inclusivity and innovation.