Big Drop Inc. is not just a web design agency - it specializes in a variety of web and digital services, offering clients a comprehensive digital experience. It is an agency that has mastered digital marketing strategy through impeccable design and quality development. When it comes to web accessibility, Big Drop Inc. is committed to delivering the same high standard as everything else that they offer. That’s why they are leveraging the accessiBe Partner Program and seeing incredible results.
Tackling education & seeing the results
Mascha:Hi James! Thanks for speaking with me today. Let’s start with challenges. What challenges did you face when first introducing web accessibility services to Big Drop Inc. clients?
James: We have found that many of our clients are unaware of the importance and benefits of web accessibility and that we need to educate them. We utilized accessiBe’s resources to inform them about the legal, ethical, and business advantages. Another challenge was the perception of high costs associated with accessibility, which we could address by offering tiered solutions that fit within various budget constraints.
The technical complexity of accessibility also posed a hurdle, as clients often found it daunting, time-consuming, and, in some cases, too expensive. To mitigate this, we provided detailed implementation plans and continuous support, highlighting the ease of use and integration of accessWidget, making the process more approachable and manageable for our clients. We’ve seen the results, and they are worthwhile.
Mascha: And after overcoming those initial education obstacles, what has been the ROI of implementing web accessibility for your agency and your clients so far?
James: Implementing web accessibility has proven to be immensely beneficial for our clients, and our agency, Big Drop. Maintaining an accessible digital presence has always been top of mind for our team to ensure that our site offers equal opportunities for any and all visitors. Our commitment to accessibility has significantly enhanced our own user experience which is really attractive for prospective clients - mostly, they have seen value in our prioritization of adhering to the ADA and WCAG 2.1 standards.
Clients have experienced similar success, including an expanded audience reach since accessible websites can be used by everyone, which results in higher engagement and conversion rates. One of our clients, the New York Film Academy (NYFA), has experienced significant success following the website redesign that incorporated accessWidget.
With accessWidget our client NYFA’s organic search traffic has increased by 8%, bounce rate has decreased by 1.3%, and the conversion rate has risen by 27.8%.
Improved accessibility enhances the overall user experience, leading to greater customer satisfaction and loyalty, which our clients obviously appreciate.
Opening new doors in the agency-client relationship
Mascha:Wow those are incredible numbers. Besides the website performance, how has offering web accessibility impacted your client relationships and business growth?
James: It has had a very positive impact! Clients appreciate our proactive approach to inclusion, which strengthens trust and loyalty, and it is because of our stance on web accessibility that we’ve been able to realize higher client retention rates.
Projects that include accessibility attract new clients from different industries that prioritize inclusion and compliance. I’d say that word-of-mouth from satisfied clients has resulted in an increase in referrals and has impacted our organic growth - it’s been a great selling point that clients can really rely on our expertise to make decisions about usability and accessibility online.
Mascha:So you’ve really been able to position yourselves as accessibility leaders. On top of your brand reputation, what strategies have been effective in convincing clients of the importance of web accessibility?
James: In reality, convincing clients of the importance of web accessibility requires a multifaceted approach, but once they get it, it’s an easy win. Demonstrating legal risks and compliance benefits is particularly effective; we provide clear examples of legal cases where non-compliance has led to significant penalties, highlighting the importance of accessibility from a risk management perspective.
Showcasing business benefits through case studies and data, we illustrate how accessible websites achieve higher engagement rates, better SEO performance, and broader audience reach. Conducting accessibility audits and user testing helps clients understand the challenges faced by users with disabilities on their websites, emphasizing the tangible and urgent need for accessibility. We also emphasize the cost-effectiveness of integrating accessibility from the start, which appeals to clients’ on a financial level. Connecting this decision to budget is very effective.
Mascha:For other agencies that want to make the switch to accessibility - what tips do you have for them?
James: Agencies looking to promote web accessibility should focus on education, demonstration, and practical support. Utilize the resources that accessiBe provides. Leading by example is crucial; make sure your own website is accessible so that you’re setting a standard and showing clients that you practice what you preach.
Sharing real-life examples and success stories can illustrate the positive impact of web accessibility on business performance and user satisfaction. Offering flexible solutions that can be tailored to fit the client’s budget and needs is also important, as it makes accessibility more attainable. And of course, providing continuous support and updates so that your clients feel assured that they are your priority.
Mascha:Great answers. Thank you so much for sharing, James.
Want to learn more about how web accessibility can transform your agency? Check out our Partner Program or book a time to speak with one of our experts today.
