Time to Go Below the Surface
A few weeks ago, we did a shallow dive on the importance of web accessibility, so this round we figured we’d dive a little deeper and get into the “how.” There’s being compliant, and then there’s being passionate about inclusivity. After reading this blog, we’re hoping you’ll see how easy and rewarding it can be to fall into the latter category.
What Does an Accessible Website Actually Look Like?
Accessibility is making sure that everyone can view your website easily and comfortably, even if they:
- Can’t see and use screen readers
- Can’t hear and need captions
- Have trouble using a mouse or touchpad
- Get overwhelmed by flashing visuals or too much content at once
Accessibility is also about showing your users, no matter who they might be, that you care and are dedicated to making sure that everyone is able to participate in your offer. It ensures that just because people have visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive disabilities, they’re still respected and included as potential customers.They deserve the accessibility of doing business with you, and we’re here to help you make sure they’re able to do so.
Dive Point #1: Make Your Content Perceivable:
Can all users see or hear what’s on your site?
- Use alt text for images and graphics: Provide a brief but descriptive narration for potential blind users. Alt text should describe what is in the image or graphic and its relevance to the content.
- Provide captions and transcripts for audio/video content: Ensure deaf users can access your content by providing captions for videos and transcripts for audio. This is a basic but vital step for inclusion.
- Ensure strong color contrast: This helps users with low vision, color blindness, or light sensitivity. Make sure there is enough contrast between text and its background so it’s easy to read.
- Avoid using color alone to convey meaning: By not relying solely on color to indicate information (such as red for errors), you ensure that users with color blindness can still interact with your site effectively.
Dive Point #2: Make It Operable
Can all users navigate and use the site?
- Ensure full keyboard navigation via the “tab” key: For users who can’t use a mouse, keyboard navigation is essential. Make sure all interactive elements (links, buttons, forms, etc) are accessible using just the keyboard.
- Add focus indicators: Use clear visual cues (like outlines) to show users where they are on the page when navigating with the keyboard. This is especially important for users who can’t rely on a mouse.
- Avoid flashing content: Flashing visuals can trigger seizures in users with epilepsy and be overwhelming for users with autism. Always provide an alternative for any flashing or moving content.
- Make links and buttons large enough to click/tap easily: Buttons and clickable elements should be large enough to be easily clicked or tapped, especially for users with motor impairments or those using mobile devices.
Dive Point #3: Make It Understandable
Can all users read and process your content?
- Use clear headings and structure: A well-organized website is easier to navigate. Make sure you use HTML heading hierarchy (H1 and H2, for example) and logical structure to make it clear where users are and what content is available.
- Write in plain language when possible: Avoid jargon or overly complex language. Keep content concise and simple so it’s easier for all users, especially those with cognitive disabilities, to understand.
- Avoid jargon and offer definitions for complex terms: If you must use technical terms, provide definitions or links to glossaries to help users comprehend.
- Use consistent navigation and labels: Keep your navigation clear and consistent so users can predict where they are on your site and how to get to where they want to go.
By focusing on the “how” of web accessibility, you can create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone. Making sure your site is perceivable, operable, and understandable isn’t just about meeting legal requirements – it’s about making sure all users feel welcome and valued. With a few simple adjustments, you can provide an accessible and rewarding online experience that makes a difference in the lives of your users. It’s time to dive deeper and make your website accessible to all.
If all this feels overwhelming, there are resources out there to help you make sure your website is accessible to all, like this link that will rate your site’s accessibility: https://www.accessibilitychecker.org/
If you’re still concerned, we applaud you for your dedication to inclusion, and would like to put it out there that we can assist in making sure your website not only looks great and reads well, but is ADA compatible to boot! Reach out to The Relish Jar to learn more about what we can do for your business!