Accessible Web Design Fundamentals

Web accessibility is not just a requirement, it’s the right thing to do. Let’s explore core principles.

What is Accessibility?

Accessibility means your website can be used by everyone, including people with disabilities.

Key Principles

1. Semantic HTML

Use proper HTML elements:

• <nav> for navigation
• <main> for main content
• <article> for blog posts
• <aside> for sidebars

2. Keyboard Navigation

Ensure all interactive elements are keyboard accessible:

• Visible focus indicators
• Logical tab order
• No keyboard traps

3. Alternative Text

Provide alt text for images:

<img src="chart.png" alt="Sales increased by 50% in Q4">

4. Color Contrast

Meet WCAG AA standards:

• 4.5:1 for normal text
• 3:1 for large text
• Don’t rely on color alone

5. ARIA Labels

Use ARIA when HTML isn’t enough:

<button aria-label="Close dialog">×</button>

Testing Tools

• WAVE: Visual accessibility evaluation
• axe DevTools: Browser extension
• Lighthouse: Includes accessibility audit
• Keyboard testing: Manual navigation

Benefits

• Larger audience reach
• Better SEO
• Improved UX for everyone
• Legal compliance

Conclusion

Accessibility benefits everyone. Design with inclusion in mind from the start.

Small changes make big impact on usability.