Imagine crafting a brilliant accessibility strategy is like operating a sturdy bus. What happens when this robust bus meets a shoestring budget? Like a bus getting hit by a train, the impact is devastating. In the context of accessibility, that is the quintessential definition of performative inclusion. Here’s why a cheap budget can derail the best-laid accessibility plans:
Innovation Stifled: Without adequate funding, innovative ideas remain just that—ideas. Bringing groundbreaking concepts to life requires investment in technology, talent, and resources.
Quality Compromised: Cutting corners to save costs often produces subpar results. Quality suffers when budgets are squeezed, and this can tarnish your brand’s reputation.
Time Constraints: Shoestring budgets can lead to unrealistic timelines. Rushing to meet deadlines without the proper resources can result in burnout and turnover among your team.
Long-term Vision Sacrificed: Short-term cost savings can come at the expense of long-term increased expenses. Investing in scalable solutions and infrastructure is crucial for sustained success.
Customer Experience Impacted: Customers can tell when a company is skimping. Reduced budgets can lead to poorer customer service, less engagement, and ultimately, a decline in customer loyalty.For organizations to thrive, it’s imperative to align their budgets with their strategic goals. This alignment is not just a matter of financial planning but a strategic move that can effectively execute strategy, pave the way for long-term growth and success, and simultaneously reduce litigation risk.
Remind your executives that you get what you pay for. A robust accessibility strategy deserves a robust accessibility budget.
Alt: an image of a train with a writeup “accessibility budget” hitting a school bus with a caption: “well planned accessibility strategy”