Website accessibility refers to the ability of people with disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, or cognitive impairments, to access digital content and use the web. Accessibility means making sure that everyone can use and understand your website, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
Website accessibility is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that people with disabilities can access and use digital content on an equal basis with others. Additionally, accessible websites can help people with temporary or situational disabilities, such as someone with a broken arm or someone in a noisy environment.
Accessible websites also comply with accessibility standards and regulations such as ADA compliance and WCAG guidelines. By following these standards, you ensure that your website meets the needs of all users and reduces potential legal risks.
Accessibility standards are guidelines that determine what steps should be taken to make a website more accessible. These standards include ADA compliance and WCAG guidelines. ADA compliance refers to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which requires that places of public accommodation provide equal access to people with disabilities.
WCAG guidelines provide technical requirements for website accessibility. They cover a range of topics including screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, color contrast ratios and much more.
To make your website accessible you can start by following the WCAG guidelines for accessibility. This involves making sure your website is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Simple changes like adding alt text to images and using proper heading structure can go a long way in improving accessibility.
Screen reader compatibility refers to the ability of screen reader software to effectively read aloud content on a web page for visually impaired users. Screen readers interpret text on a webpage using speech synthesis technology so it can be spoken out loud in real-time.
Making your website compatible with screen readers involves creating accessible content using proper headings, descriptive alt text and other best practices.
Keyboard navigation refers to the ability for users to navigate a website solely using their keyboard. This is especially important for users who have physical disabilities or use assistive technology.
Making your website keyboard accessible involves adding skip links, offering easy access to all links and buttons, and ensuring that all functionality can be accessed through the keyboard.
To ensure your website meets accessibility compliance standards you can conduct an accessibility audit. An accessibility audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your website against established accessibility guidelines. Once the audit is complete you can take steps to address any issues that were identified.
To get started with improving website accessibility, consider reading books and eBooks on the topic. Some great resources include:
By following these guidelines and literature you can make your website more accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.
