CheapWebDesign strives to deliver reliable website services and assist with most technical inquiries—but some issues fall outside the scope of their support. Here's a closer look at what is excluded from support services according to their Technical Exclusion policy:

1. Technical Exclusion in Web Design: A
Comprehensive Guide
This document provides a comprehensive overview of technical exclusion in web design,
drawing insights from Cheap Web Design Singapore's perspective. It explores the concept of
technical exclusion, its various forms, the reasons behind its occurrence, and strategies to
mitigate it, ensuring websites are accessible and inclusive for all users, regardless of their
technical skills or resources.
What is Technical Exclusion?
Technical exclusion in web design refers to situations where individuals are unable to access
or effectively use a website due to their lack of technical skills, outdated technology, limited
internet access, or other technical barriers. This exclusion can manifest in various ways,
preventing users from fully participating in the online experience.
Forms of Technical Exclusion
Technical exclusion can take many forms, including:
• Digital Literacy Barriers: Users may lack the necessary skills to navigate websites,
understand online forms, or use interactive elements. This can be particularly
challenging for older adults, individuals with disabilities, or those with limited
education.
• Technology Constraints: Users may be using outdated browsers, operating systems,
or devices that are not compatible with modern web technologies. This can result in
websites rendering incorrectly, functioning poorly, or being completely inaccessible.
• Connectivity Issues: Users with slow or unreliable internet connections may struggle
to load websites, especially those with large images, videos, or complex scripts. This
can be a significant barrier for users in rural areas or developing countries.
• Accessibility Barriers: Websites that are not designed with accessibility in mind can
exclude users with disabilities, such as those who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or
have motor impairments. This can include issues with screen reader compatibility,
keyboard navigation, and color contrast.
• Language Barriers: Websites that are only available in one language can exclude users
who do not speak that language. This can be a significant barrier for users who are not
fluent in the dominant language of the internet.
• Cost Barriers: The cost of internet access, devices, and software can be a barrier for
low-income individuals and families. This can limit their ability to access online
resources and participate in the digital economy.
Reasons for Technical Exclusion
Several factors contribute to technical exclusion in web design:

2. Mitigating Technical Exclusion
There are several strategies that can be used to mitigate technical exclusion in web design:
Causes of Technical Exclusion in Web
Design
Failure to Adhere to
Standards
Ignoring Diverse Needs
Inadequate User Feedback
Inadequate User
Consideration
Insufficient Testing
Lack of Accessibility
Features
Lack of Assistive Technology
Testing
Limited User Testing
No Alt Text for Images
Non-Compliance with WCAG
Outdated Design Practices
Poor Keyboard Navigation

3. Embrace Universal Design Principles: Universal design is an approach to design that aims to
create products and environments that are usable by all people, to the greatest extent
possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. This includes designing
websites that are accessible to users with disabilities, easy to use for older adults, and
compatible with a wide range of devices and browsers.
• Prioritize Accessibility: Accessibility should be a core consideration throughout the
web design process. This includes following accessibility guidelines, such as the Web
Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and testing websites with assistive
technologies, such as screen readers.
• Optimize for Performance: Websites should be optimized for performance to ensure
that they load quickly and function smoothly, even on slow internet connections. This
includes optimizing images, minimizing code, and using caching techniques.
• Provide Clear and Concise Content: Website content should be written in clear and
concise language that is easy to understand for users with varying levels of literacy.
This includes using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break up text and
make it easier to scan.
• Offer Multiple Language Options: Websites should offer multiple language options to
cater to users who do not speak the dominant language of the internet. This can be
achieved through the use of translation tools or by providing content in multiple
languages.
• Provide Technical Support: Websites should provide technical support to users who
are experiencing difficulties. This can include FAQs, tutorials, and contact information
for technical support staff.
• Educate Web Designers and Developers: Web designers and developers should be
educated about the importance of technical inclusion and the strategies that can be
used to mitigate it. This can be achieved through training programs, workshops, and
online resources.
• Advocate for Policy Changes: Advocate for policy changes that promote technical
inclusion, such as regulations requiring websites to be accessible to users with
disabilities and initiatives to expand access to affordable internet.
• Use Responsive Web Design: Employ responsive web design techniques to ensure
websites adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes and devices, providing an optimal
viewing experience across desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Accessibility
Features
Adapting to various
devices
Creating intuitive
navigation
Designing for users
with disabilities
Ensuring access for
all users
Inclusive
Digital
Environment
Responsive Design
Strategies for Technical Inclusion in Web
Design
User-Friendly
Interfaces

4. • Progressive Enhancement: Implement progressive enhancement, a strategy that
prioritizes core content and functionality, ensuring it's accessible to all users, regardless
of their browser or device capabilities. Then, layer on advanced features for users with
modern browsers.
Conclusion
Technical exclusion is a significant challenge in web design that can prevent individuals from
accessing and participating in the online world. By understanding the various forms of
technical exclusion, the reasons behind its occurrence, and the strategies that can be used to
mitigate it, we can create websites that are more accessible and inclusive for all users. By
embracing universal design principles, prioritizing accessibility, optimizing for performance,
and providing clear and concise content, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity
to benefit from the power of the internet. Cheap Web Design Singapore is committed to
promoting technical inclusion and creating websites that are accessible and usable for all.