Web accessibility ensures that people with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with websites. It's not just ethical—it's often legally required.
Why Accessibility Matters
- 15% of the world's population has some form of disability
- Accessible sites often have better SEO
- Many countries have legal requirements (ADA, AODA, etc.)
- It improves usability for everyone
WCAG 2.1 Principles
Perceivable
Content must be presentable to users in ways they can perceive: - Provide text alternatives for images - Offer captions for videos - Ensure sufficient color contrast - Support screen magnification
Operable
Interface components must be operable: - Full keyboard navigation - Sufficient time to read content - Avoid seizure-inducing content - Clear navigation mechanisms
Understandable
Content must be understandable: - Readable text (appropriate reading level) - Predictable navigation patterns - Input assistance and error handling - Consistent identification of elements
Robust
Content must be robust enough for various technologies: - Valid HTML markup - ARIA landmarks and labels - Compatibility with assistive technologies
Common Issues and Fixes
Missing Alt Text
Every image needs descriptive alt text that conveys its meaning.
Poor Color Contrast
Text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background.
Missing Form Labels
All form inputs need associated labels for screen readers.
Keyboard Traps
Users must be able to navigate through all interactive elements using only a keyboard.
Testing Tools
- WAVE browser extension
- axe DevTools
- Lighthouse audits
- Screen reader testing (NVDA, VoiceOver)
Getting Started
Start with an accessibility audit of your current site. Our team can help identify issues and implement solutions that make your website welcoming to all users.