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6 Common Misconceptions About Digital Accessibility

Does dig­i­tal acces­si­bil­i­ty feel over­whelm­ing, with end­less guide­lines and tools to sort through?

A woman and elderly man looking at a laptop computer on a table

For many, creating accessible, inclusive websites and apps is a priority — but misconceptions can stand in the way of progress. In this blog, we tackle six common myths about digital accessibility and explore practical steps to create more inclusive, customer-friendly digital services. 

Misconception #1: Accessibility Only Benefits People with Disabilities 

Many solutions originally designed for people with disabilities have become essential for everyone. Take audiobooks, for example — something that people with and without visual impairments use — or pedestrian curb cuts, which benefit people with strollers, delivery workers, and anyone navigating busy streets. 

In the digital world, accessibility features like structured headings, descriptive links, form labels, and clear spacing between clickable elements improve usability for all users. Accessibility isn’t just for “them”; it’s for everyone. Disability can affect anyone permanently, temporarily, or situationally due to accidents, illness, or aging. 

Misconception #2: Accessibility Equals Usability 

While accessibility guidelines remove barriers, they often represent a baseline. Usability goes beyond this by considering how all users — including those relying on assistive technologies — experience and interact with content. For example, poorly structured headings can be mentally taxing for screen reader users.  

Additionally, many users have multiple disabilities, which makes efficiency and thoughtful design even more crucial. To improve usability, focus on: 

  • Clear, logical content flow and concise labels. 
  • Meaningful alt-text for important images, and none for decorative ones. 
  • Minimizing cognitive load for users with multiple or cognitive disabilities. 

True equity means providing access and making sure the experience is easy to use and efficient for all. 

Misconception #3: Accessibility Overlays Make Websites Automatically Accessible

Accessibility overlays, marketed as quick-fix tools, promise compliance without modifying your website’s source code. Unfortunately, overlays often fall short of true accessibility. They can interfere with assistive technologies, override user preferences, and cause frustration for those they claim to help. 

In a WebAIM survey, 67% of respondents rated overlays as ineffective. The strongest opposition comes from the disability community itself, highlighting the disconnect between these tools and user needs.

Effective solutions include: 

Automation can support your accessibility efforts, but it’s no substitute for intentional, human-centered design (HCD). 

Misconception #4: You Can Outsource Digital Accessibility Responsibility 

Third-party vendors such as consultants can assist with audits, development, and remediation — but the ultimate responsibility for accessibility lies with your organization. If your digital services fail to meet compliance standards, you are accountable, not your vendors. 

To avoid missteps: 

  • Vet vendors carefully. Be wary of vague claims like “100% accessible” or “ADA compliance guaranteed.” 
  • Prioritize knowledge sharing. Work with partners who educate and train your team and align with your commitment to inclusivity. 
  • Treat accessibility as a shared, organization-wide responsibility — not a task to delegate entirely. 

By building accessibility into your workflows and culture, you create a sustainable foundation for inclusive digital services. 

Misconception #5: You Can Make a Website 100% Accessible 

Achieving perfect accessibility for every user is an admirable goal, but the reality is more nuanced. Accessibility research is evolving, and gaps remain, especially around cognitive disabilities, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence. Instead of chasing perfection: 

  • Adopt an iterative approach. Continuously test, remediate, and improve. 
  • Conduct manual and automated testing aligned with WCAG standards. 
  • Be transparent. Publish an accessibility statement outlining existing gaps, actions underway, and a contact method for feedback. 

Embrace a mindset of progress over perfection. Small, consistent improvements lead to meaningful outcomes over time. 

An example of a user persona that focuses on accessibility and inclusivity.

An example of a user persona that focuses on accessibility and inclusivity.

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Misconception #6: Personas Should Focus on Every Type of Disability 

User personas are invaluable tools for understanding user needs but creating one for every possible disability can lead to oversimplification and overwhelming complexity. Reducing users to their disabilities overlooks their broader experiences, behaviors, and goals. Instead: 

  • Prioritize personas that reflect your primary audiences. For example, government websites serving older adults should include personas representing users with low vision or hearing impairments. 
  • Consider the full context. Look beyond physical disabilities to account for factors like cognitive load, chronic pain, or situational limitations. 

Developing meaningful, well-rounded personas, ensures accessibility efforts remain relevant, actionable, and impactful. As you work to make your digital services accessible, challenge assumptions and amplify the voices of those impacted. Follow disability advocates, include people with disabilities in decision-making, and prioritize solutions that meet real user needs. Listen to the stories of the communities you serve and let them guide your journey toward inclusive design.