Making the Web Work for Everyone
Web accessibility means designing websites so that people with disabilities can use them. Think of it like a ramp next to a staircase: the ramp allows someone in a wheelchair to enter the building. On the web, we build digital ramps so everyone can access information, regardless of visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments.
1. Image Descriptions
Inaccessible: Missing Image Descriptions
Screen readers, which read websites aloud for visually impaired users, cannot see images. Without a text description (an "alt tag"), the user gets no information.
Image with empty alt=""
Accessible: Descriptive Image Text
This image has descriptive alt text: "A small corgi puppy lying on a wooden floor." A screen reader will announce this, conveying the image's meaning.
alt="A small corgi puppy lying on a wooden floor"
2. Interactive Controls
Inaccessible: Non-Standard Controls
This looks like a button, but it's just a styled <div>. Keyboard users can't "Tab" to it, and screen readers won't announce it as a button. It's invisible to assistive technology.
Accessible: Standard HTML Controls
This is a proper <button>. It's automatically focusable with a keyboard (try the Tab key!), and screen readers announce "Submit, button," making its purpose clear.
3. Text Contrast
Inaccessible: Low Contrast Text
When text and background colors are too similar, it's hard to read for people with low vision or color blindness. It's also difficult for anyone in bright sunlight.
Reading this is like trying to spot a polar bear in a snowstorm. Very difficult!
Accessible: High Contrast Text
This dark text on a light background meets contrast standards. It's clear and legible for the widest possible audience in various lighting conditions.
This text is bold and clear, making it easy for everyone to read.
4. Form Labels
Inaccessible: Unlabeled Form Fields
Without a proper <label>, a screen reader doesn't know what this input field is for. It might just announce "edit text," leaving the user to guess.
Accessible: Properly Labeled Form Fields
Here, the <label> is programmatically linked to the input field. A screen reader will now correctly announce "Your Email Address:" when the user focuses on the field.
5. ARIA & Context
Inaccessible: Missing Context for Pop-ups
When a dialog appears without ARIA attributes, a screen reader user has no idea what happened. Their focus can still interact with the page behind it, causing total confusion.
Accessible: Clear Context for Pop-ups (ARIA)
Using ARIA attributes, we can tell screen readers a dialog has opened, what it's for, and "trap" the keyboard focus inside until it's closed. This provides essential context.
6. Animation Safety
Inaccessible: Flashing or Blinking Content
Rapidly flashing content is not just distracting; it can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. It must be avoided.
Accessible: Stable and Clear Content
Important information should be presented clearly without flashing. This design is safe, professional, and ensures the message is received without causing harm.
Small Changes, Huge Impact
Accessibility isn't about adding complex features; it's about making thoughtful choices. Using the right HTML elements and considering all types of users leads to a better experience for everyone.
These small changes create a more inclusive and effective web.
Why This Matters
1 Billion+ People
Over 1 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. That's 15% of the global population who may struggle with inaccessible websites.
Legal Requirements
Many countries have laws requiring web accessibility, including AODA in Canada, ADA in the US, and EN 301 549 in the EU.
Better for Everyone
Accessible websites are easier to use for everyone—including people using mobile devices, slow connections, or temporary impairments.