WASHINGTON, DC (July 20, 2020) – User1st and 6 Wheels Consulting today announced a strategic partnership to advance web accessibility for people with disabilities. The two organizations will work to encourage and consult with businesses, health organizations, and government entities to adopt inclusive technology practices.

“I am excited to expand the already wonderful partnership with User1st. Their world class web accessibility tools open doors for many people with disabilities to have access to the web. In our current climate access to the web has become even more vital for those can’t freely leave their house. This expanded partnership will be beneficial for both parties as we make all aspects of the world more inclusive to everyone. I am excited to see where the work takes our two amazing organizations,” said Matthew Shapiro, Founder and CEO of 6 Wheels Consulting.

“The need for web accessibility is more critical than ever with the COVID-19 pandemic keeping people with disabilities even more isolated. As we approach the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disability Act which opened physical doorways, we look forward to working with Matthew to open digital doorways for the disability community,” said User1st CEO Amihai Miron.

Statistics show that home internet use surged upwards of 70% during the peak months phase 1 stay-home orders. The most used online services were grocery, e-commerce, health, and home improvement, with a nearly 50% increase in telehealth services and a doubling of online grocery sales. Even as many states have reopened, nearly all health guidelines encourage those who fall within a vulnerable population to continue to shelter in place, even extending the warning to household members or caregivers for people who may need assistance. Website accessibility should be counted among the essential services for people with disabilities.

Digital accessibility is the ability of a website, mobile application, or electronic document to be easily navigated and understood by all users of varied abilities, including those who have visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities. Unfortunately, most websites and other digital assets were not created with accessibility in mind, blocking users with disabilities from using your online resources and apps which can lead to litigation risk under the ADA and several other civil right laws.

About 6 Wheels Consulting, LLC:
6 Wheels Consulting, through professional consulting, dynamic public speaking, and lobbying services, strives to educate and guide organizations of all types in both the public and private sectors with the goal of strengthening their understanding of disability culture and the issues that affect this population. We do this through inclusive, common-sense, cost- effective, solutions to disability related concerns. This enhanced education hopes to broaden the understanding and appreciation for those with disabilities. For more information on 6 Wheels Consulting, visit www.6wheelsconsulting.com; Contact: Matthew Shapiro, 804-317-0819; matthew.shapiro@6wheelsconsulting.com

About User1st:
Founded with the purpose of making the power of the internet accessible for persons with varied and changing abilities, User1st provides the most advanced web accessibility solutions on the market for testing, remediation, monitoring, and compliance. User1st’s solutions are deployed in a variety of industries worldwide, including financial services, retail, government, education, and healthcare. For more information, visit http://www.user1st.com/ and follow User1st on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter @User1st.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Raegan Bartlo, VP Communications
202-919-6216
Raegan.bartlo@user1st.com

Written by Raegan Bartlo

Originally posted on User1st https://www.user1st.com/press-blog/user1st-6-wheels-consulting-announce-strategic-partnership