While this rule was written with public entities in mind, its ripple effects and broader implications mean that organizations interacting with government services – including contractors, partners, and vendors – also need to understand and adapt to accessible design. That’s where we come in. Here’s how our accessibility-focused design firm can help your organization not only meet compliance, but lead with inclusive digital experiences.

What the New ADA Title II Rule Means

The rule clarifies and modernizes web accessibility obligations for state and local governments by requiring:

• Websites, web content, and mobile apps to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA.
• Accessibility that covers all content available through web browsers – including text, images, video, audio, and documents.
• Deadlines for compliance (e.g., larger public entities by April 24, 2026, and smaller ones by later dates, depending on population).
• Limited exceptions (e.g., archived content or certain legacy documents), but with continued ADA obligations for effective communication.
• Even organizations not directly covered can use these standards as best practices – and many accessibility lawsuits or enforcement actions already rely on WCAG as the benchmark.

How Hester Designs is Helping Clients

Our firm specializes in accessible web design and development that goes beyond minimum compliance to build inclusive digital services. Here’s how we support clients in light of the new Title II requirements:

/ / / / / / / / / / / /

Accessibility Audits and Gap Analysis

• We can perform in-depth accessibility audits of your website and digital assets.
• Benchmark current accessibility against WCAG 2.1 and 2.2 AA and DOJ expectations.
• Identify where your content falls short (e.g., navigation, keyboard usability, form labels, media captions).
• Prioritize fixes that reduce legal risk and enhance user experience.

This audit becomes your roadmap for compliance and improvement.

/ / / / / / / / / / / /

Accessibility starts with design. At Hester Designs we:

• Design with accessibility in mind, ensuring color contrast, clear structure, and keyboard navigation from the outset.
• Build sites using tesing throughout so assistive technologies (like screen readers) can reliably interpret your content.

Our work helps ensure your web presence is usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.

/ / / / / / / / / / / /

Ongoing Monitoring & Maintenance

Accessibility isn’t a one-time task – content changes constantly. This is especially important as web content grows or integrates third-party tools. We provide:

• Checks to catch regressions or new issues.
• Maintenance services to ensure future updates stay compliant as your offerings evolve.

/ / / / / / / / / / / /

Training & Internal Support

Understanding accessibility empowers your team. We offer:

• Workshops and training on WCAG best practices.
• Guidance for content editors to create accessible content (e.g., alt text, headings, link text).
• Support for internal teams responsible for compliance initiatives.

/ / / / / / / / / / / /

Training & Internal Support

Understanding accessibility empowers your team. We offer:

• Workshops and training on WCAG best practices.
• Guidance for content editors to create accessible content (e.g., alt text, headings, link text).
• Support for internal teams responsible for compliance initiatives.

The Value of Accessibility

Investing in accessibility aligns with ethics, usability, and compliance:

• It expands your audience by including people with disabilities.
• It reduces legal risk as regulations evolve and enforcement increases.
• It strengthens brand reputation as an inclusive and forward-thinking organization.

Key Compliance Deadlines

Compliance deadlines depend on the population size of the public entity:

• Entities serving 50,000 people or more: April 24, 2026 — must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility requirements by this date.
• Entities serving fewer than 50,000 people: April 26, 2027 — smaller jurisdictions have an extra year to comply.
• Special district governments: April 26, 2027 — similar extended deadline regardless of population measurement.

These timelines give covered public entities roughly two to three years from the rule’s publication in April 2024 to conform all applicable digital content and services to the technical accessibility standard.

Our final thoughts…

The new ADA Title II rule is a major milestone in digital accessibility policy, bringing greater clarity and accountability. Whether you’re a government entity, a contractor working with public agencies, or an organization committed to equitable design, meeting these standards is no longer optional – it’s expected.

Our firm is ready to guide you every step of the way with expert, accessible, and user-centric solutions. Ready to elevate your web presence? Let’s build accessibility that works for everyone.

At Hester Designs, we create commercial websites that are cost-effective, future-proof, secure and accessible. Our architecture is based on decades of experience and testing across hundreds of sites. We launch sites every day that give clients an environment that is easy to maintain.

We know you need to be able to manage your web content without a technical person on staff. We also know that you need a future-proof site that will accommodate all your considerations, and give you options to expand in the future. 

This is why Hester Designs develops sites using WordPress. We test sites on Google Chrome, Safari, and Edge browsers to ensure compatibility and performance. We also start designing in Adobe products to help bring the design elements into every area of branding and marketing projects.

Our process is built on collaboration, ensuring your input drives the final product. We walk clients through structured planning phases that focus on business goals, user needs, and long-term growth. Whether you’re building your first site or replacing one that’s out of date, our team provides the roadmap and tools to help you stay competitive online.

In addition to web design, our in-house team supports broader branding needs, from logo creation to print collateral—so your identity remains consistent across every touchpoint. That continuity builds recognition and trust with your audience, whether they find you on a screen or in the real world.

Usage by the numbers:

We are developing for the most common numbers of sites and usage;

CMS
• WordPress – 62 % of CMS; ~43 % overall
• Shopify – 6.7 % of CMS; ~4.7 % overall
• Wix – 3.8–5.3 % of CMS; ~3.3–3.9 % overall
• Squarespace – 3.0–3.3 % of CMS; ~2.2–2.3 % overall
• Joomla – 2.1–2.5 % of CMS; ~1.5–1.7 % overall

Web Browsers
• Chrome – 64–66 %
• Safari – 18–20 %
• Edge – 5–7 %
• Firefox – 3–4 %
• Opera – 1.5–2.4 %

Web Design Tools
• Photoshop – 88.5 %
• Sketch – 75 %
• Illustrator – 76.9 % can be opened in Photoshop
• InDesign – 23.1 %
• Figma – no exact %, second to Adobe products

As you can see… WordPress + Chrome + Adobe is the most widely used methods and resources. The rest pale in comparison.

Hire HD for Web Development that lasts.

Contact us today to learn how we can work with you to develop the perfect website for your company. Our “return on investment” is unmatched.

The post Why We Develop Websites for the Future first appeared on Hester Designs.]]> https://hesterdesigns.com/10k-projects-later-10-lessons-from-23-years-in-design/ Fri, 18 Apr 2025 23:15:42 +0000 https://hesterdesigns.com/?p=20706 After 23 years, thousands of sketches, countless client calls, and more than 10,000 completed projects, we’ve learned a thing or two about what works - and what really, really doesn’t.

In today’s digital landscape, having a professional and functional website is essential for any business. However, hiring the right web designer can be a challenge. You need someone who is experienced, reliable, and capable of delivering a high-quality site tailored to your needs. Here’s what to look for when hiring a vetted web designer.

Experience of Being in Business for Over 15 Years

Experience matters. Designers who have been in business for over 15 years have seen trends come and go, understand best practices, and know how to adapt to the ever-changing web landscape. This longevity often signals reliability, expertise, and a proven track record of delivering quality work.

Avoid Low Monthly Subscription or Free Wix Style Models – They’re Usually Bad News

Many companies offer low-cost monthly website subscriptions, but these often come with hidden downsides. You may not fully own your website, be locked into long-term contracts, or face difficulties in making changes. A custom-designed website may require a larger upfront investment but will give you full ownership and long-term value.

Design Concepts Presented Before Building a Website

A professional web designer should provide initial design concepts before diving into development. This ensures you have a say in the look and feel of your website and can request changes before any coding begins. This approach prevents costly revisions later and ensures alignment with your brand identity.

Modern Web Architecture with Easy-to-Use Page Builder

A modern website should be built on a flexible, scalable architecture that allows for future growth. Look for designers who use easy-to-use page builders or content management systems like WordPress, Webflow, or Shopify. This enables you to make minor updates yourself without relying on a developer for every small change.

Test a Websites for Quality Development

Use Google Lighthouse Tool to test a site for 4 main metrics. If these scores are not all green, there are issues lurking.

Test a Site with Google Lighthouse

Testing for Accessibility and Launching Without Errors

A great website isn’t just visually appealing – it also needs to be functional and accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. It’s not only an ethical imperative but also a legal requirement in many places, and it benefits businesses by expanding their audience and improving user experience. Ensure your web designer conducts thorough testing for accessibility, mobile responsiveness, and browser compatibility before launching. This reduces issues down the line and improves user experience.

You can test a web page for accessibility errors using Web Aim’s WAVE tool. More than 4 errors on a page and you can bet problems abound.

Test a Site with the WAVE tool

Training and Support You Understand

After your website is live, you need ongoing support. A reputable web designer should provide training on how to manage your site, update content, and troubleshoot common issues. Clear, jargon-free guidance ensures you feel confident in maintaining your website.

Warranty After Launch

A professional web designer stands by their work. Look for someone who offers a warranty period after launch to fix any unforeseen bugs or errors. This demonstrates confidence in their work and ensures your website runs smoothly post-launch.

Vetting a Web Developer is Crucial

Hiring a vetted web designer is about more than just aesthetics – it’s about ensuring you get a functional, future-proof website backed by experience, accessibility, and ongoing support. By considering these factors, you’ll find a designer who can bring your vision to life while avoiding common pitfalls.

Hire HD for Web Development You Can Trust!

Contact us today to learn how we can work with you to develop the perfect website for your company. Our “return on investment” is unmatched.

If your website is struggling with slow-loading images, you’re not alone. Images being uploaded to the media library often aren’t optimized properly, leading to unnecessary delays and performance issues. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to ensure your site runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why Image Optimization Matters

Large, unoptimized images can slow down your website, negatively affecting user experience and SEO rankings. One effective way to improve performance is by converting images to the WEBP format, which offers superior compression while maintaining high image quality.

For more details on this issue, check out Hester Designs’ article on website optimization: Hester Designs Blog.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Image Issues

To optimize your website’s images efficiently, follow these steps:

1. Identify High-Traffic Pages

Start by using Google Analytics to determine the top 20 pages with the largest audience. These pages should be your priority, as they have the most impact on user experience and site performance.

2. Locate and Optimize Images

Once you’ve identified these key pages, take the following actions for each image:

• Download the existing image from your website’s media library.
• Check crop size specifications to ensure it matches the stylesheet’s requirements.
• Convert the image to WEBP format using Bulk Resize Photos.
• Ensure the new file size is smaller than the original for better optimization.

3. Replace Old Images with Optimized Versions

Now that you have a WEBP version of your image, follow these steps to replace the existing one:

• Go to the original image in the media library.
• Use the Enable Media Replace plugin to upload the new file.
• Select the “Replace the file, use the new file name, and update all links” option.

Final Thoughts

By systematically optimizing your website’s images, you’ll see improvements in loading speed, user experience, and SEO. Regularly updating images with WEBP versions will ensure your site remains fast and visually appealing. Start implementing these changes today and give your website the performance boost it deserves!

Need Help Reducing Image Sizes?

Contact us today to learn how we can enhance your digital presence with efficient images!

What is Inclusive Design?

Inclusive design is the practice of creating digital experiences that accommodate people of all abilities, backgrounds, and circumstances. While accessibility ensures compliance with laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), inclusive design focuses on usability, embracing a broader spectrum of user needs.

Why Go Beyond Compliance?

• Broader Audience Reach – Designing inclusively means your website, brand, or product is accessible to a wider audience, including people with disabilities, aging populations, and those with temporary impairments (e.g., a broken arm or bright sunlight affecting screen visibility).
• Improved User Experience – When digital experiences are designed with inclusivity in mind, they become easier to navigate for everyone, leading to higher engagement and satisfaction.
• Stronger Brand Reputation – Businesses that prioritize inclusivity demonstrate empathy and forward-thinking, appealing to socially-conscious consumers and clients.
• Better SEO and Performance – Many accessibility best practices—such as clear navigation, proper use of headings, and descriptive alt text—also enhance search engine rankings and overall site usability.

Key Principles of Inclusive Design

1. Perceivable – Ensure all content is easy to see, hear, and understand. This includes using high-contrast color schemes, captions for videos, and alternative text for images.
2. Operable – Make interactions intuitive for all users. Keyboard navigability, voice commands, and responsive design are essential for those with motor impairments.
3. Understandable – Use clear, simple language and intuitive layouts so users of all literacy levels and cognitive abilities can engage effectively.
4. Robust – Ensure your website works across various devices, browsers, and assistive technologies.

How to Implement Inclusive Design

• Design with Empathy – Consider your audience’s diverse needs from the outset rather than retrofitting accessibility features later.
• Test with Real Users – Include individuals with disabilities in your testing process to gather valuable insights on how they interact with your digital experience.
• Provide Multiple Ways to Access Content – Offer transcripts for audio content, captions for videos, and alternative text for images to ensure that no information is lost.
• Keep Improving – Inclusive design is an ongoing process. Regularly update your website based on user feedback and new technological advancements.

Need Help Making Your Design More Inclusive?

At Hester Designs, we specialize in creating accessible and inclusive digital experiences that go beyond compliance. Whether you’re looking to improve an existing website or build a new, user-friendly platform from the ground up, we can help you design with inclusivity in mind.

Let’s make the web a more welcoming place for everyone. Contact us today to learn how we can enhance your digital presence with inclusive design!

As the New Year unfolds, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your brand and give it a fresh start. Just like individuals set resolutions for personal growth, businesses can embark on a journey of rejuvenation by reimagining their visual identity. In this blog post, we’ll explore three impactful ways to give your brand a New Year’s reboot: introducing a fresh color scheme, adopting a new font for headings, and revamping your graphics and photography styles.

Add a Fresh Color to Your Corporate Color Scheme

Colors play a significant role in brand perception and can influence how customers connect with your business. Consider adding a new color to your corporate palette to inject vitality and modernity into your brand. Choose a hue that resonates with your brand personality and values while reflecting current design trends. Whether it’s a subtle accent or a bold primary color, the addition of a fresh shade can breathe new life into your visual identity.

Remember to maintain consistency across all brand materials, from your website and social media profiles to marketing collateral. A harmonious color scheme reinforces brand recognition and fosters a cohesive and professional appearance.

Introduce a New Font for Headings

Typography is a powerful element that communicates the personality and tone of your brand. If you’ve been using the same font for a while, consider introducing a new one for your headings. Experiment with modern, clean, or bold typefaces that align with your brand’s message.

The right font can convey a sense of innovation, reliability, or creativity. Ensure that the chosen font is legible across various platforms and sizes. Consistency is key, so update all your communication materials, including your website, presentations, and marketing materials, to maintain a unified and refreshed look.

Create a New Look with Graphics and Photography Styles

Visual content is a cornerstone of brand communication. Evaluate your current graphics and photography styles and explore ways to revamp them for the New Year. This could involve experimenting with new design elements, illustration styles, or photography techniques.

Consider the emotions and messages you want to evoke through your visuals. Whether it’s adopting a minimalist approach, embracing vibrant colors, or incorporating unique textures, updating your graphics and photography styles can captivate your audience and signal a contemporary brand presence.

A reboot doesn’t have to be a major project

By implementing these strategies to revitalize your brand for the New Year, you’re not merely engaging in a visual makeover; you’re actively investing in the continued success and relevance of your business. A fresh color scheme, a new font, and revamped graphics convey a sense of innovation, modernity, and adaptability, signaling to your audience that your brand is dynamic and evolving. In an ever-changing market, staying visually appealing and contemporary helps maintain customer interest, fosters brand loyalty, and attracts new audiences. This proactive approach positions your brand for ongoing success, ensuring it remains vibrant, memorable, and resonant throughout the year. Embracing these changes allows your business to adapt, connect, and thrive in the competitive landscape, making the investment in a refreshed visual identity a strategic and rewarding choice.

The New Year is a prime opportunity for brands to visually reinvent themselves. By adding a fresh color, introducing a new font, and revamping graphics and photography styles, your brand can stay relevant and captivating. Embrace change, stay authentic to your values, and watch your refreshed visual identity resonate with customers. Here’s to a vibrant and visually stunning year ahead! Cheers!

Take a look inside our design process behind one of our latest logos: Sweeties Scratch Kitchen. Sweeties wanted a logo featuring a hand-drawn character mascot with client-specified characteristics. With these in mind, we set off to create something really unique to help them stand out.

Step 1: Quick thumbnail sketches

The first phase of our design process is to come up with as many thumbnail sketches as possible that take into account the characteristics and requests from the client. The idea is to let the ideas come to mind as quickly as possible and to get those ideas onto paper just as quickly. This helps to trigger even more ideas and further development.

Step 2: Refinement of thumbnail drawings

The second phase of our design process takes a few of the stronger ideas from the thumbnail phase, and introduces more detail and further develops characteristics and emotion.

Step 3: Finalization of Character

The third phase is the cleanup and finalization of the drawing. In this example, we can see additional details, such as shading and contrast start to take shape as well. After this phase, we will move the drawing into the computer to finalize the logo.

From the thumbnail drawings to the finished logo, you can see the evolution of an idea as it moves through our offices. We love to work collaboratively as a team and with our clients to create a brand they are truly proud of. Give us a call and let us help you out as well!

Is your website showing its age, struggling to attract the right audience, or plagued by technical glitches? It might be time for a redesign. Here are three compelling reasons why you should consider giving your website a fresh look:

1. Outdated Design

In the fast-paced world of web design, trends change rapidly. What was stylish and engaging a couple of years ago may now look outdated and unappealing. An outdated design can turn potential visitors away, making them bounce from your homepage faster than you can say “refresh.”

Signs Your Design Is Outdated:

• The homepage bounce rate is alarmingly high, even with limited traffic.
• Your website hasn’t seen a design update in over three years.
• Your site’s design doesn’t align with current web trends and user expectations.

To address this issue, conduct a thorough analysis of your site’s design. Determine if it needs a superficial makeover or a more comprehensive overhaul, which may involve revising the content, user journeys, and software used for the site and its features.

2. Poor Conversion Rates. Clicks to calls.

It’s not enough for visitors to merely land on your website; you need them to take meaningful actions such as making purchases, calling your business, signing up for newsletters, or filling out contact forms. If your site is attracting visitors but failing to convert them into leads or customers, it’s time to investigate why.

Signs Your Conversion Rates Are Low:

• Traffic is steady, but leads or sales are non-existent.
• Google Search Console indicates good rankings, but the traffic isn’t relevant.
• Visitors engage with live chat or forms, but it’s often about information not found on the site.

This problem may be related to SEO issues or misleading metadata. A redesign project here involves examining your current keyword rankings, understanding user intent, and aligning your website’s messaging to attract the right audience. Additionally, consider refining navigation, site structure, and content to ensure a seamless user experience that encourages conversions.3. Technical Challenges

A website isn’t just about its visual appearance; it’s also about the underlying technology that powers it. If you or your clients are experiencing difficulties managing content, frequent downtime, slow loading times, or issues with plugin and theme updates, your website’s technical aspects may need a revamp.

Signs of Technical Challenges:

• Content management is cumbersome or confusing.
• Frequent website downtime disrupts user access.
• Slow-loading website and admin panels.

To address technical challenges, consult with the individuals responsible for managing the website. Gather feedback on their pain points and needs. Then, research alternative tools and technologies that can enhance website performance and ease of management. Consider upgrading web hosting, exploring new content management systems, or optimizing third-party integrations to create a smoother online experience for both administrators and users.

Redesign is more than a facelift!

In conclusion, a website redesign is more than just a visual facelift. It’s an opportunity to align your online presence with current trends, improve user experience, and ensure that your website is a powerful asset for your business. Whether it’s the design, conversion rates, or technical aspects, a well-executed redesign can breathe new life into your website and contribute to your overall success online.