Creating an accessible website isn’t just about compliance—it’s about ensuring a seamless experience for all users, including those with disabilities. A well-designed, accessible website enhances usability, improves search engine rankings, and broadens your audience reach. Whether you’re launching a new site or refining an existing one, these seven practical tips will help you create a more inclusive digital space.
1. Use Clear and Descriptive Headings
Headings structure your content and make navigation easier for all users, including those using screen readers. A clear heading hierarchy (H1 for main titles, H2 for subheadings, H3 for section headers, and so on) improves readability and ensures logical flow.
Well-organised headings also help users with cognitive disabilities by breaking content into digestible sections. Screen readers use these headings to provide users with an outline of the page, allowing them to jump to relevant sections quickly.
Best Practice: Use headings for structure, not just visual appeal. Style your text using CSS while maintaining proper semantic order.
2. Add Alt Text to Images
Alternative text (alt text) describes images for visually impaired users. It helps screen readers convey the purpose of an image, improving accessibility. Without alt text, screen readers simply skip over images, potentially omitting important context.
When writing alt text, be clear and descriptive. If the image serves a functional purpose, describe its function rather than just its appearance.
Pro Tip: Keep alt text concise but informative. Instead of “image1.jpg,” use “Woman using a laptop for online shopping.” If an image is purely decorative, use an empty alt attribute (alt=””) to avoid unnecessary distractions for screen reader users.
3. Ensure Keyboard Accessibility
Many users rely on keyboards rather than a mouse for navigation. Interactive elements such as links, buttons, dropdown menus, and forms should be fully functional via keyboard commands (Tab to navigate, Enter to select, Space to activate buttons).
Keyboard users should be able to access all site functionality without getting stuck or losing focus. If an element is only accessible via mouse clicks, it can create significant barriers for users with mobility impairments.
Test It: Try navigating your site using only a keyboard. Adjust any elements that disrupt smooth movement. Ensure all focusable elements are highlighted to show users where they are on the page.
4. Provide Captions and Transcripts for Multimedia
Videos and audio content should be accessible to users with hearing impairments. Adding captions to videos and transcripts for audio ensures inclusivity.
Captions benefit more than just those with hearing impairments—they’re also useful for users in noisy environments or those who prefer to consume content without sound. Transcripts provide a text-based alternative, making multimedia content accessible to screen readers.
Pro Tip: Auto-generated captions can be a good start, but always review and edit for accuracy. Poorly transcribed captions can create confusion and miscommunication.
5. Choose High-Contrast Colour Schemes
Colour contrast is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments or colour blindness. Low-contrast text can make reading difficult, while good contrast enhances visibility and improves the user experience.
To meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Buttons and links should also stand out from surrounding content.
Tool Tip: Use contrast checkers like the WebAIM Contrast Checker or the Stark plugin for design software to ensure your colour scheme meets accessibility standards.
6. Optimise Forms for Accessibility
Forms play a vital role in user interaction, from sign-ups to purchases. Poorly designed forms can be a major accessibility barrier.
To make forms accessible, each field should have a clear, descriptive label that remains visible even when the field is selected. Placeholder text is not a substitute for labels, as it disappears when users start typing and can be difficult for screen readers to interpret.
Additionally, error messages should be clear and provide guidance on how to correct mistakes. Users with disabilities should not be left wondering why a form submission failed.
Quick Fix: Use the <label> element to associate form labels with input fields for better screen reader compatibility. Provide clear, concise error messages and avoid relying solely on colour to indicate errors.
7. Conduct Regular Accessibility Audits
Web accessibility is an ongoing process. As your website evolves, new accessibility issues may arise. Regular audits help identify and resolve potential barriers before they affect users.
Automated testing tools can quickly scan for common accessibility issues, but manual testing is also essential. User testing with people who rely on assistive technologies provides valuable insights into real-world accessibility challenges.
Recommended Tools: Axe, WAVE, and Google Lighthouse can help identify accessibility gaps. Conduct periodic manual checks to ensure a user-friendly experience.
Making your website accessible benefits everyone—not just those with disabilities. Accessibility improvements enhance usability, improve SEO, and create a more inclusive digital experience for all visitors.
By implementing these best practices, you ensure your website is welcoming, functional, and compliant with accessibility standards. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to our team. Let’s make the web a more accessible place together!
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