Website Accessibility: What It Is, and Easy Ways to Make Your Site More Inclusive
Building a website isn’t just about creating something pretty (though that’s a bonus) — it’s about making sure everyone can use it. That’s where website accessibility comes in.
What Is Website Accessibility?
Website accessibility means designing and building your site so it can be used by people with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments. A truly accessible website ensures that all users can navigate, understand, and interact with your content easily.
Not only is accessibility a reflection of thoughtful design, but it also improves SEO and widens your audience reach. Plus, it’s just the right thing to do!
Simple Ways to Make Your Website More Accessible
Follow these steps to help make your website easier to use for people of all abilities.
Add descriptive alt tags to images
Alt tags tell the story behind your images — like a virtual narrator for anyone using a screen reader. If you have a photo of your desk setup featuring your computer and a steaming cup of coffee your tag might say, “A laptop next to a mug of coffee on a clean white desk.” Short and sweet! Be clear and concise — describe the image’s function or content.
Use proper heading structure
Organize content with headers (H1, H2, H3) in hierarchical order to help screen readers navigate your site and allow all visitors to scan your content efficiently. H1 should only ever belong to the page title, and body copy should use H2 on up, to organize your content in a way that is clear. Think of it like a table of contents for each page.
Ensure color contrast meets accessibility standards
Make sure text stands out clearly against your background by using sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM’s contrast checker is a great tool to help ensure your text is easy to read. Strong contrast between text and background colors makes everything easier to read.
Add descriptive link text
Avoid “Click here” or “Learn more” as link text. Instead, provide context, such as “Download the guide to improve your workflow” or “View our pricing guide.” This helps users and screen readers understand where links lead.
Use captions for videos
Provide captions or transcripts for video content. Whether someone forgot their headphones or needs hearing support, captions keep your content accessible to everyone.
Think twice about using automatic image carousels or auto-scrolling text
Image carousels, especially ones that auto-rotate, with calls to action and links are best to avoid. These types of moving content elements can be tough for people with impaired vision or motor delays to read and/or click in a timely manner.
Avoid auto-playing media
Automatically playing audio or video can be disruptive and confusing for many users. Nobody likes surprise audio. Let visitors hit play when they’re ready instead of startling them with unexpected tunes or narration.
Start Small, Make Progress
Improving your website’s accessibility doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Even small changes make a difference! By taking these steps, you’re not just enhancing your site’s usability — you’re creating an inclusive digital space that welcomes all users.
Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!
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