More Than Just Web Design: How Accessibility Shapes Every Brand Touchpoint

Source: Tech Atypically branding designed by The Sage Mages

When most people hear the word “accessibility,” their minds jump straight to websites—alt text, screen readers, color contrast, maybe even WCAG guidelines.

But what if I told you accessibility is so much more?

In truth, accessibility and inclusive design touch every part of your brand experience—not just online, but in every interaction you have with your audience.

Let’s take a look at just a few key areas where inclusive design makes a major impact:

Source: Instagram

🔹 Social Media

Accessible social media is more than adding captions and alt-text—it’s about giving your audience the permission to consume your content in their preferred way. It immediately brings comfort instead of annoyance.

Thanks to built-in auto-captioning and editing tools, implementing multiple communication preferences is now easier than ever. These small changes can yield powerful results: increased content engagement, better SEO, and stronger brand connection for neurodivergent, visually impaired users and accessibility advocates.

Questions to Ask Before You Posting:

• Are captions legible—or will they be hidden by UI elements like play icons or chat boxes?

• If the platform supports it, have you turned on auto-translation features?

• Are all images paired with image descriptions or alt-text?

• Have you run your foreground and background colors through a WCAG contrast checker?

• Are your visuals culturally sensitive and contextual, avoiding appropriation?

  
  

Source: Pexels, Taryn Elliot

🔹 Email & Blog Design

Crafting accessible emails and blogs ensures that all recipients, regardless of their abilities, can engage with your content seamlessly. By focusing on clarity and inclusivity, you enhance the user experience and foster stronger connections with your audience.

Implementing these practices leads to improved engagement rates, reduced bounce rates, and a more inclusive communication strategy that resonates with a diverse audience.

Questions to Ask Before Sending:

• Is the font size and style easily readable on various devices?​

• Are all images accompanied by descriptive alt text?​

• Does the email structure facilitate easy navigation for mobile-users and text-to-speech readers?​

• Have you ensured that links and buttons are clearly labeled and easily clickable?
  

🔹 Art Direction

Inclusive Art Direction involves creating visual narratives that authentically represent and resonate with diverse audiences. By thoughtfully selecting and presenting visual elements, brands can foster a sense of belonging and respect among all viewers.​

There are amazing stock sites that make it easy to find and support diverse stories, including our favorites: CreateHER Stock, DisabilityIN Stock, BetterAllies.com, Canva Natural Women Collection, and The Gender Spectrum Collection.

Embracing inclusive art direction enhances brand credibility, fosters deeper connections with a broader audience, and demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility.

Questions to Ask During Development:

• Does the visual content authentically represent diverse groups?​

• Have you consulted with individuals from the communities depicted?​

• Are the visuals free from stereotypes and cultural appropriation?​

• Is the imagery accessible to individuals with visual impairments?​

• Does the art direction align with the inclusive values of your brand?

🔹 In-Person Events

Designing accessible in-person events ensures that all attendees, regardless of their abilities, can participate fully and comfortably. Thoughtful planning and consideration of diverse needs create an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Prioritizing accessibility in event planning leads to increased attendance, positive feedback, and a reputation for inclusivity and respect.

Questions to Ask During Planning:

• Is the venue fully accessible to individuals with mobility challenges?​

• Are communication aids available for those with hearing impairments?​

• Have you considered the needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities?

• Is it clear where attendees can submit feedback or accommodation requests?

  
  
  
  

Accessibility belongs everywhere your brand exists.

From digital content to in-person touch points, accessibility isn’t an extra step. It’s the foundation of effective, ethical, and human-centered branding.

And here’s the best part: inclusive design isn’t just good for your audience—it’s good for your business. It increases trust, widens reach, and helps turn casual customers into lifelong advocates.

So the next time you think about accessibility, go beyond the website. Think bigger. Think brand-wide.

✨ Want a simple way to start? Download the Inclusive Brand Guide Cheat Sheet to instantly assess and improve your brand’s inclusivity across the six most impactful areas.