Website Accessibility Checklist: 12 Must-Have Items

Only 3% of websites provide full access for people with disabilities. This gap not only excludes 1.3 billion individuals globally but also creates legal risks and missed opportunities for businesses. In the U.S., the ADA and updated DOJ guidelines make accessibility a priority for websites and mobile apps.

To help you comply and create a better user experience, here’s a checklist of 12 essential accessibility practices based on WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards:

• Add alt text for images: Describe images meaningfully for screen readers and improve SEO.
• Enable keyboard navigation: Ensure all site elements are operable without a mouse.
• Ensure screen reader compatibility: Use semantic HTML and ARIA roles for clear navigation.
• Check color contrast: Meet WCAG contrast ratios for text and non-text elements.
• Make forms accessible: Use clear labels, error messages, and logical tab order.
• Provide video and audio accessibility: Add captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.
• Add skip navigation links: Let users bypass repetitive menus to access main content.
• Ensure PDF accessibility: Use tags, alt text, and logical structure in documents.
• Organize headings logically: Use a clear H1–H6 hierarchy for better navigation.
• Write clear link text: Avoid vague phrases like "click here"; describe the destination.
• Support responsive design and zoom: Ensure functionality at 200% zoom and on all devices.
• Follow U.S. localization standards: Format dates, currency, and measurements for U.S. users.

Why this matters: Accessible websites improve usability for everyone, boost SEO, and reduce legal risks. Start small – add alt text or fix color contrast – and build from there. Accessibility isn’t just compliance; it’s about making your website work for all users.

The Accessible.org WCAG 2.1 AA Checklist

1. Alt Text for Images

Alt text serves as a bridge between visual content and users who rely on screen readers. Without it, screen readers either skip over the image or read its filename – neither of which provides meaningful information.

Why Alt Text Is Important

Alt text plays a dual role: it improves accessibility and enhances SEO. Since search engines can’t "see" images, they depend on alt text to understand and index visual content. Well-written alt text not only makes your site more inclusive but also helps boost its visibility in search results.

How to Write Effective Alt Text

Good alt text focuses on the image's purpose and context, not just its appearance. Think about the role the image plays in your content and describe it accordingly.

Examples of effective alt text:

• For a chart: "Bar graph showing a 40% increase in website traffic from January to March 2024"
• For a product image: "Red leather handbag with gold buckle closure and adjustable strap"
• For a team photo: "Marketing team celebrating Q3 goals achievement in conference room"

Examples of ineffective alt text:

• "Image123.jpg" (filename)
• "Nice graph" (too vague)
• "Red thing" (lacks detail)
• "Click here to learn more" (describes an action, not the image)

By following these guidelines, you ensure your images contribute to both accessibility and user experience.

When to Use Empty Alt Text

Not every image needs descriptive alt text. For decorative images – like background patterns or purely aesthetic visuals – use empty alt text (alt=""). This tells screen readers to skip over these images, creating a smoother browsing experience for users.

Using AI to Simplify Alt Text Creation

Managing alt text for large image libraries can be overwhelming, especially for e-commerce or content-heavy websites. Tools like AltReadable use AI to generate context-aware alt text automatically, ensuring consistency and compliance with accessibility standards. For businesses with extensive visual content, this automation saves time while maintaining quality.

Best Practices for Alt Text

• Keep it concise – stick to 125 characters or fewer, as some screen readers may cut off longer descriptions.
• Use relevant keywords naturally, but avoid keyword stuffing, which can make the text harder to read.
• For complex visuals like infographics or detailed charts, provide a longer explanation elsewhere on the page and reference it in the alt text (e.g., "Sales performance chart, detailed description below").

Lastly, ensure your website supports smooth keyboard navigation to make the browsing experience seamless for all users.

2. Keyboard Navigation

After implementing strong alt text practices, ensuring smooth keyboard navigation is the next step in making your website accessible to everyone. Many users, including those with motor impairments or conditions like arthritis, depend solely on keyboards or alternative input devices. If your site doesn't support proper keyboard navigation, you're effectively shutting out these users.

Understanding Tab Order and Focus

Keyboard navigation follows a logical flow called tab order. By pressing the Tab key, users can move forward through interactive elements like links, buttons, and form fields. Shift+Tab lets them move backward. The tab order should mimic natural reading patterns – left-to-right and top-to-bottom.

Focus indicators are equally important. These visual highlights show users where they are on the page. For instance, when someone tabs to a button or link, a visible outline should appear around that element. Unfortunately, some websites remove these indicators for aesthetic reasons, leaving keyboard users unsure of their position.

Essential Keyboard Navigation Tips

Every interactive element – buttons, links, forms, dropdowns, and modals – must be operable using a keyboard. Users should be able to:

• Activate buttons with the Enter or Space key.
• Navigate dropdown menus using arrow keys.
• Close modal windows by pressing the Escape key.

Once you've ensured all elements are accessible, test their functionality with a standard keyboard to confirm everything works as intended.

Testing Your Keyboard Navigation

To test, try navigating your site using only the Tab key, arrow keys, Enter, Space, and Escape. Start at your homepage and work through all interactive elements. Can you access everything? Is the tab order intuitive? Are focus indicators easy to spot against your background?

Pay close attention to areas like navigation menus, image galleries, and forms. These features often pose challenges for keyboard users. Dropdown menus, for example, should stay open as users tab through their options, and form validation messages should be accessible without needing a mouse.

Common Keyboard Navigation Mistakes

Some frequent issues include:

• Keyboard traps: These occur when users get stuck in a specific section, unable to tab out. This often happens with embedded videos, chat widgets, or poorly coded modal windows.
• Invisible skip links: "Skip to main content" links are vital but are often hidden or improperly implemented. These links should be the first tabbable element on every page and must become visible when focused.

Implementing Proper Focus Management

When users interact with dynamic content, such as opening a modal window or expanding an accordion, the focus should shift logically to the new content. For instance, if a "Contact Us" button opens a modal, the focus should jump to the modal’s first interactive element, like the close button or initial form field.

Similarly, when users close a modal or complete an action, the focus should return to a logical spot – typically the element that triggered the interaction. This prevents users from losing their place and having to start over.

ARIA and Keyboard Interaction

ARIA attributes are invaluable for guiding keyboard navigation. Use tools like:

• tabindex: Assign "0" to include an element in the tab order or "-1" to remove it.
• Dynamic states: Attributes like aria-expanded and aria-selected help users understand the status of elements like carousels or accordions. These should update dynamically as users interact with the content.

Mobile and Touch Considerations

While keyboard navigation is primarily associated with desktops, it also benefits mobile users who use external keyboards or switch devices. Switch devices, designed for individuals with severe motor impairments, often mimic keyboard input. By ensuring strong keyboard support, you're laying the groundwork for these assistive technologies to function seamlessly with your website.

Investing in keyboard-friendly navigation isn't just about accessibility compliance – it improves usability for everyone. Many power users prefer keyboard shortcuts for their speed and efficiency. Plus, a site with solid keyboard navigation often reflects clean, well-structured code, enhancing the experience for all users, regardless of their abilities or input preferences.

3. Screen Reader Compatibility

Screen readers are assistive tools that allow blind and visually impaired individuals to access digital content by reading it aloud or converting it to braille. However, these tools can only be effective when websites are designed with compatibility in mind. Without it, navigating a site can become unnecessarily difficult.

The Role of Semantic HTML

Screen readers interpret the structure of a website based on its code, not its visual layout. This is where semantic HTML comes into play. By using the appropriate HTML elements – like <button> for buttons, <nav> for navigation menus, and <main> for primary content – you provide clear signals about the purpose of each element.

When semantic HTML is used correctly, it creates a logical structure that screen readers can follow. In contrast, relying solely on generic <div> elements can make navigation confusing. By embracing semantic HTML, you enable screen readers to offer helpful shortcuts and navigation aids, improving the overall experience for users.

Organizing Headings for Clarity

Headings act as a roadmap for screen reader users, helping them understand the structure and hierarchy of a page. Screen readers use these headings to create an outline of the document, allowing users to skip directly to the sections they need rather than reading everything in order.

To make this work effectively, follow a logical order for headings – start with H1, then H2, H3, and so on. Avoid skipping levels (like jumping from H2 to H4), as this can disrupt the flow. Even if your design calls for unconventional styles, use CSS for visual adjustments rather than altering the proper semantic order.

Each page should have only one H1 element, which defines its main purpose. Use this heading for unique, page-specific content, and keep all headings short, clear, and easy to understand.

Using ARIA Roles and Attributes

Sometimes, standard HTML isn’t enough to describe the purpose or state of certain user interface components. This is where ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes come in. ARIA provides additional context, especially for custom widgets or dynamic content, so screen readers can interpret them accurately.

For instance, ARIA landmark roles like role="main" or role="navigation" help define major content areas, making it easier for screen reader users to understand the page layout. For dynamic content, such as updates or alerts, ARIA live regions ensure that important messages are announced promptly.

Clear Labels for Interactive Elements

Every interactive element – whether it’s a button, link, or form control – needs a descriptive label that explains its purpose. Use accessible naming conventions and ARIA labels to ensure that users with disabilities can understand what each element does. Avoid vague phrases like "Click here" or "Read more." Instead, use descriptive text that provides meaningful context.

Accessible Forms and Error Messages

Forms can be particularly challenging for screen reader users, so it’s essential to ensure they are accessible. This means screen readers should be able to identify each field, understand its requirements, and announce any validation errors clearly.

When a validation error occurs, use focus management to direct the user’s attention to the issue. Pair this with ARIA attributes to ensure the error message is announced and provides clear instructions for resolving it.

Lastly, while designing for screen reader compatibility, remember to align your visual design with these accessibility principles. Thoughtful design choices, including proper color contrast, will further enhance the usability of your site for everyone.

4. Color Contrast and Visual Design

After addressing alt text and keyboard navigation, focusing on color contrast is another key step in making a site more accessible. Accessibility isn’t just about adding alt text; poor contrast can create significant challenges for people with visual impairments, color blindness, or even those viewing screens in bright sunlight.

What is color contrast? It’s the difference in brightness between text and its background, measured as a ratio. This ratio can range from 1:1 (no contrast) to 21:1 (maximum contrast). To ensure readability, specific standards guide how much contrast is necessary.

For normal-sized text, the WCAG Level AA standard requires a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1, while large text – defined as either 14-point bold (approximately 18.66px or larger) or 18-point regular weight fonts (around 24px or larger) – needs at least 3:1 contrast.

"WCAG 2.0 level AA requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text." – WebAIM

For even higher accessibility (WCAG Level AAA), the recommended ratios are 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.

WCAG Conformance Level	Normal Text Contrast Ratio	Large Text Contrast Ratio
AA (Minimum)	4.5:1	3:1
AAA (Enhanced)	7:1	4.5:1

How to test contrast: Don’t rely on your eyes alone – use tools like WebAIM’s Contrast Checker. This tool allows you to input foreground and background colors in RGB hexadecimal format or use a color picker to confirm if your design meets WCAG AA or AAA standards.

Real-world examples show how common contrast issues arise. In June 2024, Section508.gov reported that the standard red in some Microsoft applications fell short of minimum contrast requirements. Their solution? Use "Dark Red" instead to meet the necessary standards.

But text isn’t the only concern. Non-text elements – like buttons, form fields, and icons – should have a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 against surrounding colors to stay visible and functional. This applies to interactive elements as well, such as hover, focus, and active states, which should be tested separately for compliance.

Designers should also check text over gradients, semi-transparent backgrounds, or images at their lowest contrast point to ensure readability.

Color alone isn’t enough. To help users who struggle to distinguish colors, include additional cues like patterns, icons, text labels, or underlines for links. This ensures that important information isn’t lost.

There are exceptions, such as decorative text, text in complex images, or logotypes. However, these should be used sparingly to avoid compromising accessibility.

5. Form Accessibility

Forms are a cornerstone of user interaction on websites, but inaccessible designs can create barriers for users trying to complete essential tasks like making purchases, signing up for services, or reaching out for support. For users with disabilities, these barriers can transform simple tasks into impossible challenges.

Labels should be clear and descriptive. Every form field needs a label that explicitly explains what information is required. These labels must be programmatically linked to their corresponding input fields using the for attribute. This ensures screen readers can announce the purpose of each field when users navigate to it. Placeholder text alone isn't enough – it disappears as soon as users start typing and may not be picked up by assistive technologies.

Indicate required fields with more than just visual cues. While asterisks (*) are common, they should always be paired with text that specifies which fields are required. Include any format requirements directly in the label. For example, instead of "Phone Number", write "Phone Number (10 digits, no spaces or dashes)." This proactive approach reduces user errors.

Error handling needs to be specific and inclusive. When validation fails, provide clear, text-based error messages, such as "Password must include at least 8 characters, one uppercase letter, and one number." Avoid relying solely on color to indicate errors – users with color blindness may not notice red borders around fields. Combine color with text and icons to ensure everyone receives the necessary feedback.

Screen reader compatibility is essential. Use ARIA attributes like aria-describedby to link error messages directly to their respective input fields. This allows users to immediately understand what needs correction without searching for error messages elsewhere on the page.

Manage focus effectively during error states. When validation fails, direct the keyboard focus to the first field with an error or, even better, to an error summary at the top of the form. For larger forms, an error summary that links to each problematic field can help users quickly navigate and address issues.

Organize fields logically. Arrange fields in a natural, predictable order. For example, contact information should progress from name to email to phone number. Group related fields together to create a smooth flow of information. This logical structure benefits all users, especially those navigating forms sequentially with screen readers.

Allow users to dismiss error messages with the Esc key without losing focus. This prevents error messages from becoming obstacles that block access to other form elements.

Inaccessible forms can lead to more than just user frustration – they can result in legal consequences. For instance, in 2016, Nueces County, Texas, faced a legal agreement with the Department of Justice after its online conference registration form was found to be inaccessible to screen reader users. This case underscores the importance of prioritizing accessibility to avoid such liabilities.

Combine client-side and server-side validation for thorough feedback. Client-side validation can catch formatting issues in real time, while server-side validation addresses more complex rules. Both should provide actionable guidance to help users fix errors and move forward successfully.

Testing form accessibility involves using keyboard-only navigation to complete every field, ensuring error messages are presented in a logical reading order, and verifying that all interactive elements are operable without a mouse. Screen reader testing helps confirm that labels, instructions, and error messages are announced clearly and in the right context. This comprehensive testing process reflects the broader goal of creating inclusive, user-friendly web experiences for everyone.

6. Video and Audio Accessibility

Multimedia has the power to connect with diverse audiences, but without proper accessibility, videos and audio can unintentionally exclude people. Whether someone is deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or simply in a noisy or distracting environment, accessible multimedia ensures everyone can engage with your content. Just like alt text and keyboard navigation, making multimedia accessible is a key step toward creating an inclusive online experience.

Captions are a must for videos. Closed captions provide a text version of spoken words, sound effects, and other important audio cues. They should sync perfectly with the audio and include speaker identification when multiple people are talking. Auto-generated captions often need manual review and correction to ensure accuracy. Don’t forget to include relevant sounds like "[applause]" or "[phone ringing]" to give context.

Transcripts and audio descriptions expand accessibility. Transcripts go beyond captions by including additional details, such as scene descriptions, making video content usable for screen reader users while also improving search engine visibility. Audio descriptions fill in the gaps for those who can’t see the visuals by describing actions, facial expressions, scenery, or any on-screen text. These descriptions are carefully timed during natural pauses in dialogue. This approach aligns with other inclusive practices, like writing clear alt text and designing for keyboard navigation, to ensure no one is left out.

Keyboard-accessible playback controls are essential. All interactive elements – like play, pause, stop, and volume controls – should be navigable using the Tab key. The spacebar should function as a play/pause button, meeting the expectations users have from other media players.

Keep cognitive accessibility in mind. Avoid flashing content that could trigger seizures – nothing should flash more than three times per second. If videos auto-play, they should start muted to avoid overwhelming users.

Live streams and audio recordings also need accessibility features. Provide real-time captions, full transcripts, and clear navigation markers. Make sure the streaming platform supports keyboard navigation and works well with screen readers.

Test your multimedia with assistive technologies. Check that screen readers can interact with your video players and that captions remain clear when users zoom in their browsers (up to 200%). Ensure your content works seamlessly across different devices, browsers, and especially on mobile platforms.

Choose tools and platforms designed with accessibility in mind. Look for services that offer features like caption editing tools, reliable keyboard navigation, and APIs for custom accessibility solutions. While automated tools can generate captions and transcripts, human review is crucial to maintain accuracy.

Start accessibility efforts early. Professional captioning services may involve upfront costs, which can vary based on turnaround time and the level of accuracy needed. However, investing in accessibility not only broadens your audience but also helps you avoid potential legal risks tied to digital accessibility standards.

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines emphasize that multimedia must be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. This means offering alternatives for time-based media, giving users control over playback, presenting content in a clear and simple way, and using reliable markup that works with assistive technologies. By following these steps, you can ensure your multimedia content is accessible to everyone, creating a more inclusive and engaging digital experience.

7. Skip Navigation Links

Skip navigation links are a straightforward way to simplify browsing for users who rely on keyboards or screen readers. These links allow users to bypass repetitive navigation elements like headers, menus, and sidebars, taking them straight to the main content.

Why are skip links so helpful? For keyboard users, navigating a website often means pressing the Tab key repeatedly to move through every interactive element. Without skip links, they have to go through the same navigation items on every single page, which can be tedious. A skip link changes that by letting them jump directly to the content with just one keystroke.

Screen reader users face a similar challenge. Without skip links, screen readers announce every navigation item and header element before reaching the main content. This repetition can be time-consuming and mentally exhausting, especially for users browsing multiple pages on a site.

"People who rely on a keyboard and on screen readers often need to navigate a long list of links and elements in the header on each web page before arriving at the main content. Provide a 'Skip to Content' link to allow them to skip directly to the main content area"

Where should skip links go? Placement is key. The skip link should be the first interactive element in your HTML structure. That way, when users press Tab for the first time, the skip link immediately gets focus.

How should they look? Skip links should balance accessibility with visual design. By default, they can be hidden but should become clearly visible when they receive keyboard focus. This ensures they don’t clutter the design for mouse users but remain easy to spot for keyboard users. Use high-contrast colors and readable fonts to make the link stand out when focused.

How do you implement them? The skip link should connect directly to the main content area. For example, you can use this HTML code:

<a href="#main-content">Skip to main content</a>

Make sure the main content area has a corresponding ID, like this:

<main id="main-content">

The link text should clearly describe its function – phrases like "Skip to main content" are direct and easy to understand.

Real-world examples show how effective skip links can be. The ADA.gov website, for instance, includes "Skip to page navigation Skip to main content" links at the very top of its pages. CivicPlus.com also uses a "Skip to main content" link on its blog pages to help users bypass header elements and go straight to articles.

Skip links work alongside other accessibility tools. Features like semantic headings and ARIA landmarks are helpful for navigation, but not all browsers support them fully. As WebAIM notes in their WCAG 2 Checklist:

"While proper use of headings or regions/landmarks is sufficient to meet this success criterion, because keyboard navigation by headings or regions is not supported in most browsers, WebAIM recommends a 'skip' link in addition to headings and regions"

Test your skip links to ensure they work. After adding them, navigate your site using only the Tab key. The skip link should be the first thing to receive focus, it should be visible when focused, and clicking it should move focus directly to the main content. Also, test with screen readers to confirm that they announce the link properly.

Skip links may seem like a small addition, but they make a big difference. They’re easy to implement, don’t disrupt your site’s design, and significantly improve the browsing experience for keyboard and screen reader users. This simple feature can make your website much more user-friendly and inclusive.

8. PDF and Document Accessibility

PDFs often exist outside the main structure of your website, which can create unique challenges when it comes to accessibility. If these documents aren't designed with accessibility in mind, users with disabilities may struggle to access critical information such as forms, reports, manuals, or legal documents. Beyond being considerate, making PDFs accessible is a legal obligation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which applies to online content, including PDF files.

The process of creating accessible PDFs starts with good planning and well-structured original content. Use proper headings, alt text for images, and clearly defined structural elements in your source document. This groundwork simplifies the conversion process and reduces the need for extensive fixes later.

When converting files, use methods like "Save as Adobe PDF" or "Export" to maintain accessibility tags. Avoid using the "Print to PDF" option, as it removes the structural elements, leaving you with an inaccessible document that requires significant manual adjustments.

Check and refine PDF tags. Tags are invisible markers that help assistive technologies, like screen readers, understand the structure of your document. Use Adobe Acrobat to confirm the presence of these tags. If they’re missing, apply the "Autotag Document" feature and manually refine the tags for headings, paragraphs, lists, links, and tables to ensure smooth navigation.

Ensure tag order matches the content flow. The sequence of tags in the Tags Panel dictates how a screen reader presents the document. This order should align with the visual layout of the content. For instance, if a footer is announced before the main body or headings are out of sequence, it can confuse users. Adjusting the tag tree to reflect the correct reading order resolves such issues.

Address images and graphics appropriately. Tag images as figures and provide descriptive alt text that explains their content and context. For decorative images like design elements or spacers, mark them as artifacts so screen readers skip over them, keeping the focus on relevant information.

Make tables and forms accessible. Tables need specific structural tags, such as Table, Table Row (TR), Table Header (TH), and Table Data (TD), to ensure they are read logically from left to right. For forms, include interactive, fillable fields with clear tooltips and a logical tab order to guide users through the form efficiently.

Add metadata for clarity. Define essential metadata like title, author, and language in the PDF's file properties. This helps screen readers interpret and pronounce the text correctly.

Use OCR for scanned documents. Scanned PDFs are often image-based, lacking the text layer that assistive technologies require. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) can convert these into searchable, selectable text. Once converted, add proper tags and structure to make the document fully accessible.

Test accessibility thoroughly. While tools like Adobe Acrobat's Accessibility Checker or PAC 2024 are helpful for identifying common issues, it's crucial to test your PDFs with actual screen readers. Navigating the document using only keyboard commands is another way to ensure interactive elements function correctly.

Evaluate alternatives when suitable. While PDFs are valuable for many purposes, they’re not always the best choice for accessibility. For example, web-based forms (like those created in Google Forms) often offer a more user-friendly experience for interactive content, and HTML pages are typically better for content meant to be read online.

It’s worth noting that approximately 61 million people in the United States live with disabilities, representing a substantial audience that accessible documents can serve. U.S. courts often reference WCAG 2.0 Level AA as the benchmark for accessibility compliance, though WCAG 2.1 Level AA is now the recommended standard. Additionally, PDF/UA (ISO 14289) provides international guidelines specifically for PDF accessibility. By aligning your practices with these standards, you not only meet legal requirements but also create a more inclusive experience for all users.

9. Page Structure and Headings

A well-organized heading structure acts as a roadmap for your content, guiding visitors through your page. Just like proper navigation and keyboard accessibility are crucial for your website, clear and logical headings are essential for both human users and assistive technologies.

Screen readers rely on headings to create an outline of your content, but this only works if headings follow a logical sequence.

"Heading elements (h1, h2, h3, etc.) help break up the content of the page into related 'chunks' of information. They are incredibly important for helping people who use assistive technology to understand the meaning of a page or view."

Best Practices for Headings

• Use a single, unique H1 per page. This should clearly reflect the page's main purpose. Avoid generic choices like your site's name or logo, as these appear on every page and fail to communicate specific content. For example, on a product page for headphones, a strong H1 might be "Wireless Bluetooth Headphones – Model XR200" instead of just your company name.
• Follow a logical hierarchy. Headings should progress naturally from H1 to subsequent levels (H2, H3, etc.) without skipping levels. If you need to change a heading's appearance, use CSS for styling rather than altering the semantic structure.
• Make headings meaningful. Each heading should give users a clear idea of what to expect in the section it introduces. Replace vague labels like "More Information" or "Details" with specific titles such as "Shipping and Return Policy" or "Technical Specifications."

Styling and Consistency

Use CSS to style your headings while maintaining a clear HTML structure. A well-structured page provides the same organizational cues to screen reader users as it does to sighted users through visual styling.

"Like an outline, a well-structured page conveys relationships between different content areas. While a visual assessment may interpret larger, bolder text to be more important or more overarching than smaller, regular text, properly structured websites and documents use logically named 'levels' of text to show relationships between different areas of content."

Consistency is key. Apply a standard heading structure across your site to create a seamless experience. For instance, on your homepage, use H2s to introduce sections like "Our Services", "About Us", and "Contact Information." On product pages, use H2s for sections like "Features", "Specifications", and "Customer Reviews." This uniformity enhances accessibility and usability.

Enhancing Navigation for Content-Rich Pages

For longer pages, consider adding a table of contents with in-page links. This feature is especially helpful for users relying on keyboard navigation or screen readers, allowing them to jump directly to the sections they need.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Don't use headings for design purposes. Headings are meant to organize content, not just to display larger or bolder text. Use CSS for visual adjustments without compromising the semantic structure.
• Test your headings regularly. Use browser developer tools or accessibility extensions to check your heading outline. Navigating your site using only the Tab key or screen reader shortcuts can help ensure your hierarchy is logical and effective.

Beyond Web Pages

Proper heading structure isn't just for websites – it applies to downloadable documents like PDFs as well. Logical and consistent organization benefits all users, ensuring your content is accessible across different formats and platforms.

EcomBack's WCAG Compliance Guide emphasizes the importance of maintaining correct heading hierarchies across all page types, including homepages, product pages, collection pages, blog posts, and other content pages. Regular testing and adherence to these principles will keep your site user-friendly and accessible for everyone.

10. Clear Link Text

Link text plays a critical role in guiding visitors, especially those using screen readers or other assistive technologies. Every link should clearly convey its purpose through the text alone. For users navigating through links by tabbing or generating a list of links on a page, descriptive link text becomes essential for understanding where each link leads without relying on surrounding content.

Screen reader users often skip between links or review a full list of them. This makes generic phrases like "click here", "read more", "learn more", or "here" unhelpful, as they provide no meaningful insight into the link's destination.

What Makes Link Text Effective

Good link text is descriptive and focuses on the destination or action, rather than using vague instructions. For example, instead of saying "click here", a better approach would be something like "sign up to attend the event". This gives users immediate context about what the link offers.

Avoid unnecessary words like "link" in the text since screen readers already announce it as a link. Similarly, raw URLs should not be used as link text because they can be cumbersome and confusing when read aloud.

Common Link Text Problems and Solutions

Generic link phrases can create challenges for people with disabilities. Here’s how to improve them:

• Instead of: "For more information about our return policy, click here."
  Use: "Read our complete return and exchange policy."
• Instead of: "Learn more about accessibility features."
  Use: "Explore keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility features."
• Instead of: "Download the PDF here."
  Use: "Download the 2024 Website Accessibility Guidelines (PDF, 2.3 MB)."

These improved examples work well even when read on their own. They also provide additional helpful details, like file format and size, where applicable.

Visual Considerations for All Users

Accessibility isn’t just about screen readers – it’s also about making links visually clear for everyone. Links should stand out from surrounding text using more than just color. Adding underlines, bold text, or italics alongside color changes ensures that users with color vision differences can easily identify clickable elements. Consistency in link styling across your website helps users know what to expect and how to interact with links.

Testing Your Link Text

Once your link text is clear and visually distinct, test it to ensure it works independently. Navigate your site using only the Tab key to confirm that each link communicates its purpose without additional context.

Pay special attention to repeated link text. For instance, if multiple links on the same page say "learn more", users relying on assistive technology may struggle to differentiate them. Make sure each link text is unique and specific to its destination.

Finally, use simple, familiar language that aligns with how your audience speaks. Avoid technical or overly formal phrasing to ensure your links are easy to understand for everyone.

11. Responsive Design and Zoom Support

Responsive design and zoom support work hand-in-hand to ensure websites adapt smoothly to different screen sizes and user preferences. Whether it’s someone zooming to 200% magnification or switching from a desktop to a mobile device, your site should remain fully functional. This adaptability is especially important for users with visual impairments, motor disabilities, or anyone who benefits from larger text and interface elements.

A website that works seamlessly across all devices while addressing accessibility needs is key to creating an inclusive experience.

Understanding Zoom and Reflow Requirements

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) specify that content must reflow properly at up to 400% magnification without requiring horizontal scrolling. To test this, use your browser’s zoom feature and check whether elements adjust to fit the available space. Text should wrap neatly, and menus should collapse into mobile-friendly formats. This type of reflow is the foundation of mobile-friendly design.

Mobile-First Accessibility Considerations

Building on reflow principles, mobile-first design takes accessibility a step further. Mobile interfaces often include larger touch targets, simplified navigation, and vertically flowing content – all of which benefit users with motor disabilities, visual impairments, and cognitive challenges.

Touch targets on mobile devices should measure at least 44x44 pixels to accommodate users with limited dexterity. This size also works for desktop users who rely on keyboard navigation or assistive pointing devices. Additionally, ensure enough spacing between interactive elements to prevent accidental clicks on nearby buttons or links.

Navigation should work consistently across devices. For instance, while a hamburger menu might be effective on mobile, it may not suit desktop users who navigate with a keyboard. Visible menu options can often be easier to use than hidden ones. Design navigation systems that provide clear and consistent access to key pages, regardless of the device or input method.

Flexible Layouts and Content Adaptation

Tools like CSS Grid and Flexbox allow you to create layouts that adjust seamlessly to different screen sizes and zoom levels. These technologies enable content to reorganize itself based on the available space, avoiding issues like broken layouts or inaccessible elements.

Avoid using fixed-width containers or absolute positioning for critical content. Instead, rely on relative units like percentages, viewport units, or fractional units from CSS Grid. This approach ensures your layout remains functional across various screen sizes, orientations, and zoom levels.

Text should be resizable up to 200% using browser zoom without losing functionality or cutting off content. Avoid setting maximum heights on text containers that might truncate larger text. Similarly, ensure form fields and buttons remain visible and usable even when text size increases.

Testing Across Devices and Conditions

Testing your website in real-world scenarios can uncover issues that responsive design tools might miss. Try your site on a range of devices, including mobiles, tablets, and desktops, at various zoom levels. Use different browsers and operating systems to see how your design performs in diverse environments.

Pay close attention to how your site functions in both landscape and portrait orientations on mobile devices. Some users with disabilities may find one orientation easier to use than the other. Your design should work well in both modes, without losing critical functionality or content.

It’s also valuable to test with users who depend on zoom features or mobile devices as their primary way of accessing the web. Their feedback often highlights usability issues that technical testing might overlook. Small adjustments based on real user experiences can make a big difference in accessibility.

Performance and Accessibility Connections

Responsive design affects both loading times and accessibility, particularly for users on slower devices or limited mobile data plans.

Optimize images for different screen sizes and network conditions. Use responsive image techniques to serve appropriately sized images based on the user’s device. Large desktop-quality images can create barriers for mobile users with slower connections or limited data.

Additionally, consider how your responsive design interacts with assistive technologies like screen readers. Complex layouts can slow down these tools, making navigation frustrating. Keep your HTML structure logical and semantic, even as visual designs adjust for different devices. This consistency helps assistive technologies provide smooth navigation and reliable content access.

12. U.S. Localization Standards

To create a seamless user experience for U.S. audiences, it’s important to tailor your content to align with U.S. localization standards. While global accessibility guidelines like WCAG and ADA emphasize universal design, adapting your content to meet common U.S. conventions can make navigation and comprehension easier. This includes formatting elements like dates, times, currency, measurements, and contact details in ways that feel familiar to U.S. users. Such adjustments not only reduce confusion but also improve accessibility, especially for individuals relying on assistive technologies.

Using standardized U.S. formats for things like schedules, pricing, and service information is a simple yet effective way to enhance clarity. Consistency is critical here – mixing formats or introducing unfamiliar ones can lead to misunderstandings. To avoid this, establish clear style guidelines for your team. These guidelines will help maintain uniformity and ensure your content aligns with U.S. cultural expectations. Regularly testing your localized content with assistive technologies and gathering feedback from U.S.-based users can help you quickly spot and fix any issues.

Localization isn’t just about formatting; it also involves using imagery, language, and content organization that resonates with U.S. cultural norms. By presenting information in a way that feels natural to your audience, you create a more inclusive and accessible experience.

Testing localized content is crucial. Use assistive technology tools and collect direct feedback from U.S. users to identify potential barriers. Their input is invaluable in refining your website to ensure it remains accessible, user-friendly, and culturally relevant.

Conclusion

Creating an accessible website isn’t just about compliance – it’s about building an inclusive digital space where everyone feels welcome. The 12 accessibility practices we’ve covered, from adding alt text for images and ensuring keyboard navigation to screen reader compatibility and adhering to U.S. localization standards, work together to create a user-friendly experience for all.

Making your website accessible isn’t just the right thing to do; it also makes good business sense. It can boost your SEO by improving content clarity and structure, broaden your audience reach, and even help reduce legal risks.

Start small to see immediate results. For example, adding descriptive alt text or adjusting color contrast can make a noticeable difference right away. Over time, expand your efforts to include things like improving form accessibility and refining link text to make your website even easier to navigate.

Here’s the thing: designing for accessibility doesn’t just help users with disabilities – it benefits everyone. Whether someone is using a screen reader, navigating with a keyboard, or simply dealing with less-than-ideal lighting, these improvements make your site more adaptable and user-friendly for all kinds of situations.

Take action today. Choose one improvement from the list and implement it this week. Then, test it with real users, especially those who rely on assistive technologies, and learn from their feedback. Accessibility isn’t a one-and-done task – it’s an ongoing commitment to making your website better for everyone. And every step you take makes a meaningful difference. Use the checklist above as your roadmap to guide the way.

FAQs

What are the risks of not making a website accessible under ADA and WCAG guidelines?

Failing to make your website accessible isn't just a bad user experience – it can also lead to serious legal and financial trouble in the United States. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) require businesses to make their websites usable for individuals with disabilities. Ignoring these standards can open the door to lawsuits, hefty fines, and a tarnished brand reputation.

But the consequences go beyond legal risks. An inaccessible website limits your potential audience, excluding users who depend on assistive technologies. By focusing on accessibility, you're not just meeting legal requirements – you’re enhancing the user experience and creating a more inclusive space for everyone.

What’s the best way for businesses to manage and add alt text for large image libraries on their websites?

Managing alt text for a large collection of images might seem daunting, but tackling it step by step can make the process much easier. Begin by focusing on the images that are most important to your site’s purpose and user experience – think product photos or key visuals. Write clear, concise alt text that explains the image’s role while considering accessibility and the surrounding context.

To save time, you can use tools or plugins that work with your content management system to handle bulk edits or automate alt text generation. Just make sure to double-check any automated entries to ensure they’re accurate and meaningful. If your site regularly adds new images, set up a workflow that includes adding alt text during the upload process. This habit will help you maintain accessibility effortlessly in the long run.

Why is keyboard navigation important for web accessibility, and how can I check if my site supports it?

Keyboard navigation plays a key role in making websites accessible, especially for users who depend on keyboards or assistive devices instead of a mouse. This includes individuals with physical disabilities or visual impairments. By ensuring your site is easy to navigate with a keyboard, you’re taking an important step toward inclusivity.

A simple way to test this is by using only the Tab, Shift + Tab, and Enter keys to move through your website. Check that all menus, links, buttons, and interactive elements are accessible and work as expected. Don’t overlook focus indicators – these visual cues show which element is currently selected, making navigation without a mouse much easier.