It’s common to overlook basic human abilities like sight, hearing, and movement, yet many people interact with the world differently due to disabilities or temporary impairments. For those with functional difficulties, using the web becomes a daily challenge. This article will explain why accessible web development is essential for users and businesses and will provide steps to create accessible UX design.
What is Accessibility in Web Development?
Accessibility in web development is very important to the accessibility of different abilities through which people can easily use digital products. Through accessibility and designs, we can make every process very easy for people of all abilities, especially disabled people. Thus, according to users’ needs, we refer to the design of everything being used and developed universally as a means of one size fits all.
Types of Disabilities to Consider
Disabilities can be permanent, temporary, or situational. Visual impairments range from total blindness to issues like color blindness or difficulty seeing in bright light. Accessible design must also consider other disabilities like hearing impairments and mobility challenges.
Accessibility vs. Usability
Usability and accessibility are closely linked. Poor user experience affects everyone but is especially difficult for users with disabilities. A product becomes inaccessible not only due to disabilities but also when it has confusing instructions, is too expensive, or lacks cultural understanding for certain users.
Why Make Web Development Accessible?
Accessibility in web development is crucial, given the many people facing disabilities. Making websites accessible enables a customer-centered design by creating user-friendly experiences for people with permanent or temporary impairments. Accessible design leads to:
– Broader audience reach
– Improved search engine results
– Quicker loading times
Accessibility also encourages innovation. For example, Google is developing tools for auditory impairment that process sounds without relying on language.
Accessibility Standards for Web Development
In the United States, two main accessibility standards are:
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines): This global standard suggests designs should be:
Perceivable: Information should be understandable to low-vision users via screen readers.
Operable: Keyboard navigation should be an alternative to mouse interaction.
Understandable: The design should be user-friendly and clear.
Robust: Content should work well with assistive technologies.
Section 508: A legal requirement for government projects, similar to WCAG but focused on federal compliance.
Steps to Make Web Development Accessible
Check Current Accessibility Status
Use tools like the AXE Chrome extension to get a quick accessibility compliance score.
Use Visual Elements Beyond Color
Relying only on color can be challenging for users with color blindness. To provide essential information, use labels, icons, or bold text.
Add Focus Indicators
Focus indicators highlight selected elements, aiding keyboard navigation. They should be visible to help users with visual and mobility impairments.
Establish Content Hierarchy
Headings help users navigate content logically. Use HTML tags like `<h1>` and `<h2>` for titles and subheadings, ensuring compatibility with screen readers.
Enable Keyboard Navigation
Keyboard navigation supports users with mobility issues and those using screen readers. Ensure all elements, like buttons and links, can be accessed using the Tab and Enter keys.
Test with Real Users
Test accessibility by inviting users with different abilities to interact with your site. Accessibility tools and user feedback can reveal design improvements.
Additional Accessibility Tips
- Conduct a third-party UX audit to assess compliance with WCAG 2.0.
- Assign a team member to review designs for accessibility.
- Consider accessibility in the research stage, gathering feedback from real users to verify design choices.
Final Words on Accessible Web Development
Making web development accessible requires effort, but it benefits users by creating inclusive experiences, expanding your reach, and reducing legal risks. Accessible design also improves usability, performance, and customer satisfaction. Start building accessible websites today, and check our other articles for inclusive design examples.
