Consider These 3 Things Before Using WordPress Accessibility Plugins

Did you know that each violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can lead to a hefty fine? While WordPress strives to make websites accessible, it cannot guarantee it because each site owner customizes the content and structure of their website. And although WordPress accessibility plugins can help resolve issues, not all can fulfill their promises to their customers.

 

WordPress accessibility plugins can make it easy to update, manage, and improve your site — most of the time. However, a plugin can also cause problems, rendering your website inaccessible and unusable. That is why, before installing a WordPress plugin on your site, you should consider the following:

 

1. Is the WordPress accessibility plugin up-to-date?

First of all, ensure your plugin is compatible with the current version of WordPress since installing an out-of-date plugin almost always results in problems. Your plugin may stop working, or your site may become inaccessible and vulnerable to security threats. Consequently, it would be best to resolve these issues as soon as possible.

 

2. Is there any known bug or issue with the WordPress accessibility plugin?

When you install a plugin, you make your life easier, not more difficult. As a result, before installing a WordPress accessibility plugin, you should look for problems.

 

If you notice that the plugin has problems, do not install it on your website. Additionally, if the plugin has a history of issues or delayed fixes from the developer, you may want to reconsider using it for your site as well. You do not wish to come into work one day and discover a slew of website issues resulting from a faulty plugin update.

 

3. Is there customer care service to assist if the plugin produces errors?

Finally, before installing a WordPress accessibility plugin, consider your ability to troubleshoot a plugin issue. You should avoid installing a WordPress plugin if you do not have an in-house developer or a dedicated third-party partner.

 

While uncommon, plugins can cause serious site issues that necessitate the assistance of a developer. In some cases, plugin bugs have locked site owners out of WordPress. So, if those tools are unfamiliar to you, make sure you have someone to assist you before installing a plugin.