Why Businesses Are Struggling with Digital Accessibility in 2025

Introduction

To help businesses address accessibility challenges, tools like our Accessibility Checker and AI Widget Assistant offer automated solutions for detecting and resolving compliance issues. The Accessibility Checker scans websites for WCAG violations, while the AI Widget Assistant provides real-time user adjustments, making digital content more inclusive. Leveraging these tools can help businesses bridge the gap between compliance and usability. Digital accessibility is no longer optional, yet many businesses still fail to meet the necessary standards. With laws like the ADA, EAA, and AODA being strictly enforced, companies are under pressure to comply. However, many are falling short due to budget constraints, reliance on automated solutions without human oversight, and a general misunderstanding of accessibility principles. This article explores why businesses are struggling and how they can turn things around.

The Biggest Accessibility Challenges in 2025

1. Overreliance on Automated Tools
   AI and automation have transformed accessibility testing, but they are not perfect. Many companies assume that running an automated scan is enough to ensure compliance. While AI-powered tools can detect basic issues, they often miss complex barriers like improper heading structures, lack of meaningful alt text, and contextual issues that affect screen readers. Without human oversight, businesses are left with a false sense of security.
2. Lack of Internal Expertise
   Many businesses struggle with accessibility because they do not have dedicated specialists or internal knowledge on the subject. Designers and developers are often not trained in accessibility best practices, leading to websites and digital products that are difficult to navigate for users with disabilities. Hiring accessibility experts or providing proper accessibility training is essential for long-term compliance.
3. Legal Risks and Inconsistent Compliance
   Accessibility lawsuits are on the rise, especially in the U.S., where ADA-related cases have surged. Companies often scramble to implement last-minute fixes when faced with legal action rather than taking a proactive approach. Governments worldwide are enforcing stricter regulations, and businesses that do not prioritize accessibility risk financial penalties, damaged reputations, and lost customers.
4. Resistance to Change and Cost Concerns
   Many organizations still view accessibility as a costly and unnecessary burden rather than an essential investment. Some fear that redesigning their website or digital services for accessibility will be expensive and time-consuming. However, the longer businesses delay accessibility improvements, the more costly retrofitting becomes. Integrating accessibility from the start is more cost-effective in the long run.
5. Poor Implementation of Inclusive Design
   Many businesses attempt to implement accessibility features without fully understanding how they work. Features like dark mode, text resizing, and voice commands can enhance accessibility, but if not implemented correctly, they can cause more harm than good. Inclusive design should be an ongoing process that involves real user feedback and testing with assistive technologies.
6. Ignoring Mobile and Cross-Platform Accessibility
   With mobile browsing surpassing desktop usage, businesses that do not prioritize mobile accessibility are alienating a significant portion of users. Many apps and websites fail to support voice commands, adaptive text scaling, or proper touch navigation. Cross-platform accessibility must be a priority for any organization that wants to provide a seamless experience for all users.

How Businesses Can Overcome These Challenges

To succeed in digital accessibility, businesses must take a proactive, structured approach. Here’s how they can start making real improvements:

• Invest in Accessibility Training: Provide training for designers, developers, and content creators to integrate accessibility from the start.
• Use a Hybrid Approach: Combine AI-powered accessibility tools with human review to ensure comprehensive compliance.
• Adopt a Continuous Compliance Model: Treat accessibility as an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.
• Engage with Real Users: Conduct usability testing with people who rely on assistive technologies to identify real-world barriers.
• Allocate a Dedicated Accessibility Budget: Investing in accessibility from the beginning prevents costly lawsuits and reputational damage.

Conclusion

Businesses that struggle with digital accessibility in 2025 are often those that rely too heavily on automation, lack internal expertise, or fail to see accessibility as a long-term investment. As regulations tighten and consumer expectations shift, companies that fail to act will find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. Taking proactive steps today will ensure compliance, reduce legal risks, and create better digital experiences for all users.