Websites serve a variety of purposes, but none of them can function effectively if they are not accessible to the widest possible range of users. That includes people with disabilities.
What Do We Mean by Accessibility?
Accessibility is about ensuring that anyone browsing the internet can view and interact with your website. Many people with disabilities employ assistive technology to help them use the internet, such as screen readers for the blind or voice control for those with limited mobility. For a website to be fully accessible, it needs to function for people using these tools. A firm such as www.akikodesign.com/design/web-and-digital/ that offers web design Surrey should be willing to work with you to meet your accessibility needs.
Features
There are many frameworks that can be used for a website, including Bootstrap, WordPress, Foundation and Relax. These frameworks have all taken steps to improve accessibility. The essential features you should be looking for include:
- Semantic HTML
This HTML structure makes it easier for screen readers and other assistive devices to navigate a website.
- Responsive Devices
It is not only assistive technology that is used for accessing websites. Many people use a range of devices to interact with the web, from computers to tablets to mobile phones. A good website will be compatible with them all.
- Keyboard Navigation
Similarly, not everyone is going to be pointing and clicking with a traditional mouse when online. An accessible website will respond smoothly to commands given exclusively by keyboard.
- Accessible Rich Internet Applications
Accessible rich internet applications, or ARIA, are labels that guide assistive devices through a website and its different areas. The more customisable these labels, the more accessible the site.
- Additional Features
You may also be able to build in other accessibility features such as colour contrast checkers. It is important to keep reviewing and updating your features, as accessibility requirements continue to evolve and new technologies develop.
By prioritising these accessibility features in website design, you can ensure that more people can read your content or interact with your product, benefiting everyone.