Accessible Musings
Where inclusive design meets creative genius—thoughts, tips, and a sprinkle of fun!
Common Questions, Clear Answers
Here’s where we cut to the chase. If you’re looking for straightforward answers about web accessibility, you’re in the right spot. We’ve tackled the most frequently asked questions with clarity, so you can get the insights you need—no fluff, no jargon. Let’s make accessibility work for everyone. Got more questions? We’re always here to help.
Web accessibility is about making sure everyone can use your site, including folks with disabilities. Why does it matter? Because when your site works for everyone, it’s a win-win! It helps you reach more people, avoids legal headaches, and makes the web a better place for all. Plus, search engines love it—better accessibility often means better SEO.
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are the gold standard for making websites accessible. Think of them as your accessibility blueprint. They’re all about ensuring your site is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR). Following WCAG standards means you’re creating an inclusive digital space that everyone can enjoy—because who wants to leave people out?
Making your website screen-reader-friendly is easier than you think! Start with proper HTML structure, add meaningful alt text to images, and use clear, descriptive links. And remember—keyboard navigation is key! The goal? A site that everyone can navigate, whether they’re using a screen reader or not.
Even the best websites can slip up. Avoid these common pitfalls: missing alt text, poor color contrast, confusing heading structures, and vague link text like “Click here.” These mistakes can leave some users frustrated, and that’s the opposite of what we want, right?
Yes! In many places, including the U.S., websites need to meet accessibility standards to avoid running into legal trouble—just ask Domino’s Pizza. Making your site accessible not only keeps you compliant but also helps you welcome all visitors, no matter their abilities.
You can use tools like WAVE, Axe, and Lighthouse to check how your site measures up to accessibility standards. These tools highlight areas where improvements can be made so you can keep your site as inclusive as possible.
Accessible forms make sure everyone can fill them out—without a struggle. Clear labels, simple instructions, and helpful error messages are key. Oh, and make sure every form field has a label! Placeholder text isn’t enough.