In a significant move to strengthen its commitment to accessibility, Ecommpay has launched a new brand identity alongside an ambitious inclusivity programme dubbed “Ecommpay for Good.” This initiative aims to enhance digital inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability within e-commerce, reflecting the evolving standards and demands of today’s consumers.
At the heart of the Ecommpay for Good initiative lies a comprehensive Guide to Digital Accessibility. Designed to empower merchants, this guide focuses on providing the tools necessary to create accessible websites. With digital accessibility becoming increasingly pivotal in contemporary commerce, businesses that prioritize it are likely to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Ecommpay’s approach acknowledges the wider mission of achieving financial inclusivity. By equipping merchants with the knowledge and resources to create a more accessible online environment, Ecommpay strives to make e-commerce available to all users, including those with disabilities. This aligns with current trends, where inclusivity is not only a moral imperative but also a business opportunity.
To demonstrate its commitment, Ecommpay has subjected its own digital platforms—including its website, mobile SDK, and hosted payment page—to rigorous testing against the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 AA standard for accessibility. This initiative is being executed with careful evaluation from the Digital Accessibility Centre, with certification anticipated by the end of September 2024. Such a proactive strategy not only enhances Ecommpay’s offerings but also sets an industry standard for others to follow.
Chief Marketing Officer Miranda McLean shared her enthusiasm about the programme, emphasizing its dual purpose: “The Ecommpay for Good programme is not only designed to empower merchants to create the most inclusive e-commerce presence, but for their customers to also have an accessible and inclusive payment experience.” Her insight underscores the growing recognition that accessibility directly impacts customer satisfaction and retention.
Interestingly, the payment industry has shown varying levels of interest in prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. According to data from the Payments Association, only 5% of payments businesses have reported that ESG considerations are a priority for their activities. McLean regards this as a significant oversight, stating, “We think this is a huge missed opportunity because there is plenty of evidence to prove that inclusivity and accessibility actually drive revenue.” This statement not only highlights the financial implications of inclusivity but also rallying the industry towards a more socially responsible framework.
In collaboration with the Digital Accessibility Centre, Ecommpay has formulated the Guide to Digital Accessibility, detailing the critical actions needed to meet WCAG standards. The guide includes a practical checklist for developers, making it easier to reference necessary steps while building and maintaining websites. It is available as an accessible PDF on Ecommpay’s platform, ensuring that it reaches the audience that needs it most.
The Ecommpay for Good initiative particularly targets midsize and enterprise businesses, empowering them to conduct trade both domestically and internationally. This effort complements Ecommpay’s existing partnerships, such as those with Project Nemo and the European Women in Payments Network (EWPN). These collaborations reflect a broader strategy aimed at ensuring that inclusivity does not remain a standalone effort but interweaves with wider industry practices.
Project Nemo, initiated by former FinTech CEO Joanne Dewar, focuses on educating industry participants about accessibility. Its partnership with Ecommpay is pivotal in tackling the accessibility challenges present in the FinTech and payments sectors, ensuring that the industry remains responsive to the needs of all users.
Moreover, the EWPN plays a crucial role in establishing a community for women within the cards, FinTech, and payments sectors across Europe. By promoting a more diverse workforce, these organizations are setting the stage for richer dialogue on inclusivity and accessibility, driving meaningful change within the industry.
Ecommpay’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability reflects essential global trends towards responsible business practices, integrating these values into their operational fabric. By actively providing resources and fostering collaborations, Ecommpay not only strengthens its market position but also drives a vital conversation around inclusion and accessibility.
As businesses navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, it is essential to recognize that integrating inclusivity practices can lead to a broader customer base and enhanced brand loyalty. Ecommpay’s initiatives serve as a case study in how businesses can flourish while furthering social good, showcasing that a focus on accessibility is not just a regulatory necessity, but a core component of a sustainable, successful business strategy.
In conclusion, Ecommpay’s new identity and initiative signal a powerful shift in the payments and e-commerce industry towards greater inclusivity. This is not merely about compliance but about creating a movement. An accessible digital environment is one that benefits everyone—merchants and customers alike.
