Accessible Design Practices for a Better Web

Published on: October 27, 2023

Building a website that everyone can use, regardless of their abilities, is not just a compliance issue; it's a fundamental aspect of good design and ethical development. Accessible design ensures that your content, functionality, and user experience are available to the widest possible audience. Let's dive into some key practices.

1. Semantic HTML: The Foundation of Accessibility

Using semantic HTML elements correctly is the first and most crucial step. Elements like `

`, `

`, and `

` provide structure and meaning to your page. This structure is vital for screen readers, keyboard navigation, and assistive technologies.

Use `
` for navigation links.
Wrap your main content in `
`.
Use headings (`
` to `
`) in a logical, hierarchical order.
Use `

                
<header>
  <h1>My Website</h1>
  <nav>
    <ul>
      <li><a href="/">Home</a></li>
      <li><a href="/blog">Blog</a></li>
    </ul>
  </nav>
</header>

<main>
  <article>
    <h2>Blog Post Title</h2>
    <p>This is the main content of the blog post.</p>
  </article>
</main>

<footer>
  <p>© 2023 My Website</p>
</footer>
                
            

2. Keyboard Navigability

Ensure that all interactive elements can be accessed and operated using only a keyboard. This is essential for users who cannot use a mouse.

Focus order should be logical and intuitive.
Provide a clear visual focus indicator for the element that currently has keyboard focus.
Avoid "tab traps" where a user can get stuck on an element and cannot navigate away.

You can test this by pressing the Tab key to navigate through elements and Enter/Space to activate them.

3. Sufficient Color Contrast

Text and interactive elements must have sufficient contrast against their background to be easily readable by people with low vision or color blindness. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.

4. Descriptive Alt Text for Images

Provide meaningful alternative text (`alt` attribute) for all images. This text is read aloud by screen readers, helping visually impaired users understand the image's content and purpose. If an image is purely decorative, use an empty `alt` attribute (`alt=""`).

                
<img src="accessible-icon.png" alt="Icon representing accessibility features">
<img src="decorative-pattern.svg" alt="">

5. Clear and Concise Content

Write content that is easy to understand. Use simple language, break down complex information into smaller chunks, and use bullet points or numbered lists where appropriate. Avoid jargon or explain it clearly if it's unavoidable.

6. Accessible Forms

Forms are often a critical part of user interaction. Ensure they are accessible by:

Associating labels with their form controls using the `` attribute.
Providing clear instructions and error messages.
Using appropriate input types (e.g., `type="email"`, `type="tel"`).

                
<label for="email">Your Email:</label>
<input type="email" id="email" name="email" required>

7. ARIA Roles and Attributes (Use Sparingly)

While semantic HTML should be your first choice, Augmented Retronomy and Accessibility (ARIA) can enhance accessibility for dynamic content or custom widgets. Use ARIA roles (e.g., `role="alert"`, `role="dialog"`) and attributes (e.g., `aria-label`, `aria-expanded`) when necessary, but always consult the ARIA Authoring Practices Guide.

Conclusion

Accessibility is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. By integrating these practices into your development workflow, you'll create a more inclusive and user-friendly web for everyone. Let's build a web that truly serves all.