November 30, 2023

How to make your website more accessible

How to make your website more accessible

In a rapidly-digitizing world, accessibility isn't just a benefit-it's a necessity. With billions relying on digital platforms for information and communication daily, ensuring your website is easily accessible is instrumental. Accessibility isn't just about opening doors for those with disabilities; it's also about making your platform user-friendly for all. Here are some helpful tips on enhancing accessibility without compromising on the brand aesthetics, thereby attracting a more diverse audience.

1. Implement a Logical Content Structure: Your website's layout should be intuitive and simple to navigate. Use clear, straightforward language and relevant headings to make content easily scannable.

2. Include Alternative Text for Images: Always include alt text for images on your site. This assists screen-reading tools in explaining images to visually impaired users, providing a inclusive browsing experience.

3. Use Contrast Sensibly: Utilize colors that contrast well, making it easier for visually impaired users or those with color blindness to distinguish between different elements.

4. Clear and Simple Language: Jargons and complex sentences can confuse users. Aim to use simple, clear language to ensure your content is accessible to a broader audience.

5. Keyboard-Friendly Site: Make your website navigable through a keyboard. Some users might not be able to use a mouse, so keyboard functionality is a crucial accessibility aspect.

6. Closed Captions: If your website includes video content, ensure you provide closed captions. This makes your content accessible to hearing-impaired users.

7. Avoid Automatic Media and Navigation: Auto-playing media or changing content can confuse and frustrate users. Particularly people with cognitive impairments or those using screen readers, therefore it's recommended to avoid automatic media.

8. Regular Perform Accessibility Checks: There are several tools available online for checking your website's accessibility, such as WAVE, AChecker, or Google’s Lighthouse. Regular checks can guide you in improving your website's accessibility.

In conclusion, just like curb-cut effects on the sidewalks have benefits for all pedestrians, digital accessibility also extends beyond disabled users; it improves the user experience for everyone. Focusing on inclusivity when building your website not only reaches a wider audience but also resonates with your brand's ethos of inclusivity, thereby enhancing the overall brand image. It's not just good practice— it's good business.

Remember, a more accessible website means a better user experience, increased audience reach, higher SEO rankings, and lower risk of legal complications. So, by improving accessibility now, you are future-proofing your website for success.

Ben Lewis

Ben Lewis, serving as the Director of Technology at VisiMedia, is a seasoned professional with a diverse background encompassing technology, engineering, and solution design. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for working smarter, Ben brings a wealth of experience to his role at VisiMedia.

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