In this era of Artificial Intelligence, countless apps can create strikingly refreshing website designs. However, what makes a website design standalone is its accessibility. An accessible website design is a blend of simplicity, navigability, clarity, and user friendliness. Before we jump into 10 things that turn your website into an accessible one, let’s look at these stats that will help you realize its importance.
Importance of Accessible Website Design
Did you know that around 16% of the world’s population lives with a disability, and it directly impacts the way they use the internet? Further, in a recent evaluation, it was found that 96.3% of home pages have one accessibility error per the standard guidelines, such as poor color contrast, broken headings, missing alt text, and other issues. They not only act as a barrier for the users but also negatively impact the website’s conversion rate. Here are the top 10 things to consider for an accessible website design-
Things to Consider For An Accessible Website Design
1. Screen Reader Compatibility
People with visual impairment or people with dyslexia find it difficult to navigate the website. You can use the methods listed below to improve the page structure and enhance the experience.
i) Create a design that aligns well with the HTML structure.
Implementing Semantic HTML elements improves website accessibility and increases SEO Rankings. It helps disabled persons to read the content correctly and navigate the site. Here are some elements that you can integrate for a structured layout.
- Use the header element, then nav, main, and footer- It will define the sections clearly for the screen readers, and visually impaired people can benefit from it.
- Instead of using <div> buttons, swap them with <button> elements because the <div> element does not have built-in keyboard support, and assistive tools that help in voice search optimization. <button> elements come with better functionality and improved interaction with the website.
- Implement ARIA attributes. These attributes include adding popups, icons, sliders, dropdowns, and a button for styling.
ii) Create keyboard-friendly navigation
People with disabilities generally use a keyboard or assistive technologies to navigate through the website; hence, it is essential to
- Create websites that work reasonably well with the keyboard.
- Ensure interactive buttons work well with keyboard buttons like Tab/ Enter/ Space.
- Use ARIA- so that screen readers can have a manageable user experience.
- Test the site for keyboard-only navigation, not just for mouse or visual layout. Most operating systems today have built-in screen reader technology through which you can test your website.
- Ensure the pop-up menus can also be accessible through the keyboard.
iii) Create designs with sharp contrast.
Color contrast makes a big difference for visually impaired people. When contrast is low, the readability declines, accessibility is compromised, and the user experience is handicapped. To create sharper, well-defined designs
- Follow WCAG standards- use 4:5:1 for normal tests and 3:1 for large text.
- Instead of using color shades to convey information, use icons,
- The designers can use several tools available in the market to check color contrast.
iv) Create easy-to-access contact forms
The poorly designed web forms make it difficult for the disabled to read them correctly. People with limited hand movements will struggle with dropdown, tiny buttons, and unusual drag-and-drop features. Hence, the forms that you create should
1- Use text or symbols and asterisks to denote the field.
2- Provide clear instructions to correct the errors.
3- Provide an option to extend time limits.
4- Label the forms correctly.
2. Pay attention to the website structure.
Maintaining a clear and organized website structure is essential for enhancing user experience, improving navigation, and boosting SEO.
i) Use Image Alt Text
To make the images accessible to the readers, add the image alt text. The alt text should be descriptive and should convey the significant message. However, if the image is only for decorative purposes, avoid using alt text; otherwise, it would distract screen readers from the important page content.
ii) Add a distinct heading structure.
Align your content with heading structures like h1, h2, h3- it will help you to navigate the content effectively and will give readers a usable experience. Don’t select headings based on visual appearance; it can confuse the readers.
iii) Use simple, concise language.
Simple and concise language helps users to navigate the website easily, including people with learning disabilities, brain injuries, and other visual impairments.
- Short, clear sentences reduce confusion.
- Simple words can be easily comprehended.
- Users can get information faster without struggling
3) Enhanced Multimedia Experience
Integrating high-quality images, videos, and interactive elements can significantly elevate the user experience.
i) Add captions
Including small captions or transcripts in the video boosts your SEO presence and increases user engagement.
ii) Avoid auto-playing of media.
Auto-playing of media files can distract people with impairments or cognitive disorders.
1- Do not keep your video on auto-play mode.
2- Insert pause/ play button
3- Allow users to mute the video.
All these improve the usability experience.
iii) Don’t use excessive animation or flashing visuals on the website.
Flashing visuals distract the users and trigger seizures in users suffering from epilepsy or photosensitivity; hence, it is recommended to minimise their use. Here are some best practices to follow-
1- If flashing content is necessary, a clear warning should be provided. It prepares the user beforehand.
2- Follow WCAG standard- no flashing content for more than three times a second.
3- Replace the blinking effects with easy-to-go animations.
4- Disable excessive use of animations.
4) Other Points to Remember
i) Use easy-to-download files
Any files that you download should be accessible to people with disabilities. You can do so-
1- By putting content in an HTML Structure that is easy to read and navigate.
2-Check accessibility before adding to the website.
ii) Conduct necessary audits
Necessary audit and manual testing identify the potential barriers for people with disabilities. With such audits, you can focus on critical challenges like poor color contrast, keyboard navigation, and learn the psychology of website design.
Conclusion
Creating an accessible website design is not a standalone task. You need to understand the user psychology, go beyond aesthetics and functionality, and incorporate the standard WCAG practices to ensure your potential customers are not left behind. Also, it paves the way for good rankings and user experience.
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