Website Accessibility and UX: How Are They Related?

• Accessibility, website

7 min. (1395 words)

website-accessibility-and-ux:-how-are-they-related?

David Gevorkian

Accessibility has a great impact on user experience (UX). Creating an accessible website ensures that people, regardless of their physical or mental limitations, can obtain the information they need and communicate with your organization like the rest of the world.

With internet technology becoming mainstream, making your fully accessible is more important than ever. Adhering to the web accessibility standards is a legal requirement (as provided in the American Disability Act of 1990). Public and private organizations also consider it a social responsibility.

Building and Construction Accessibility.

Physical access to offices, healthcare facilities, schools, and commercial establishments is a basic civil right. When constructing a building, the owner should ensure that accessibility is incorporated into the planning and design process. For example, people in wheelchairs should be able to conveniently enter a building through the presence of ramps or via elevators. There should be parking areas allocated only for clients or guests with disabilities, doors should be kept open where possible, signs must be placed where customers can easily see them, and specialized devices or equipment that cater to their needs should be made available.

Website Accessibility.

The federal law requires that all public accommodations should be accessible to anyone with or without a disability. With billions of people using the internet to transact with government offices, buying all sorts of stuff online, booking a hotel, flight or restaurant reservations, searching for local businesses, etc, it is also important that websites are made accessible and navigable to them.

When designing a website, a lot of developers and business owners tend to overlook the importance of website accessibility. What they don’t realize is that it compromises their brand, hurts their reputation, and increases their risk of lawsuits.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a comprehensive law aimed to protect the rights of people with disabilities. It requires that all offices, organizations, or institutions (public or private) make their goods or services accessible to those with physical or cognitive limitations.

While web accessibility was not specifically outlined in the ADA, it is considered part of Title III: Public Accommodations. ADA compliance is a hot topic today and many businesses have faced lawsuits because of violations due to non compliance.

What is Section 508?

Also known as 508 Compliance, it is the shorthand for the law requiring government websites to be accessible for people with disabilities. It is an amendment to the Workforce Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which basically requires accessibility on all federal electronic and information technology (EIT).

What is WCAG?

Because the ADA does not directly define web accessibility and it’s scope, web designers and developers refer to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). It is a set of international standards that provides specific recommendations on how to make websites accessible.

Differences between WCAG 2.0 and 2.1

WCAG 2.1 is the updated version of the guide which was published early in 2018. It defines the success criteria provided in 2.0 but with a few more additions to address mobile accessibility, people with low vision, and people with cognitive and learning disabilities. It’s important to note that WCAG 2.1 conforms to 2.0 which means that the accessibility requirements outlined in the WCAG 2.1 are the same as that of the earlier version.

What is VPAT?

The Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) was originally used as a tool to conduct government research on the use of information and communications technology (ICT). Now, it is being utilized to test a website’s accessibility in conformance to the rules and regulations provided in the ADA and Section 5.

When it comes to website design, we often think about aesthetics. Of course, to attract more visitors, we want to make our websites beautiful with beautiful fonts, graphics, buttons, and other visual elements.

But creating a website that is both beautiful and accessible is possible. When designing your website, consider the following steps:

Enable keyboard navigation for web design.

ADA-compliant websites are keyboard-accessible. This means that all their functionalities can be accessed through the keyboard. In addition to traditional keyboards, note that some disabled users make use of specialized computer keyboards. Thus, your website navigation order must be logical and intuitive. This means it should follow a visual flow, such as “right to left” or “top to bottom”. Basically, you want to make it easy for users to navigate links, buttons, and form controls on your website via their keyboards.

Prioritize text clarity.

Written content such as articles page info and calls-to-actions should be easy to read. Vision problems like color blindness, near or farsightedness, cataract, and low vision are among the most common disabilities not just in the U.S. but in the world. Thus, it only makes sense to prioritize text clarity when designing websites.

Don’t rely exclusively on color.

While color is important, they are not the only consideration to make when creating an accessible user interface. The font style and size are important too. Times New Roman, Verdana, Arial, and Calibri are among the most recommended font styles.

Order content in HTML for screen readers.

When structuring content, always consider how it can be accessed by people that use screen readers. These are devices that translate digital text into synthesized speech. Note that a screen reader presents content linearly or one item at a time.

Add explanatory link text.

Providing a text description can help users distinguish one link from the others and determine whether to follow the link. When the link redirects users to an image, the text alternative will describe the unique function of the link. If it contains both text and an image, the description can be used to describe both the content and the image.

Use a 40×40 pt. clickable area for touch controls.

People with mobility issues make use of touch controls to navigate the web. When creating the layout of your web interface, provide enough space for CTAs and other clickable areas.

Do not forget to follow the accessibility checklist.

An accessibility checklist ensures that all parts of your website adhere to the WCAG. Everything from the images, colors, text, audio, video, navigation, site structure, forms, and text elements.

Accessible web design does not only lead to better experience among users with disabilities but also among those who do not have disabilities or limitations. Many accessibility requirements improve user experience, particularly in limiting situations.

For example, the use of contrasting colors or easy-to-ready fonts benefits people accessing a website from a small screen (such as a mobile phone) or in a dark room. Text alternative benefits users with limited bandwidth while audio transcription is a great tool for users who are unable to use earphones to access audio content.

Websites that follow the WCAG and ADA-requirements for web accessibility can benefit from creating a page solely for accessibility information. A great example of an accessibility guide is the one from the BBC website. It outlines how users can navigate and make the most from their website if they are blind, can’t see very well, unable to hear, or unable to use the keyboard or mouse to browse. Meanwhile, the accessibility statement is a powerful declaration of their commitment to making their site accessible. It includes information about the company’s accessibility goals and the methods they are using to achieve them.

After making the necessary changes, web designers should test whether they have achieved their accessibility goals.

Accessibility testing can be done in two ways: manual or automated. Accessibility firms like Be Accessible Inc. combine these approaches by using tools and conducting end-user testing involving real people with disabilities to examine the accessibility of a website.

Usability testing, on the other hand, is carried out to determine how useful the website is based on several criteria, such as learnability, efficiency, and user satisfaction. A more practical and effective way for businesses to measure the usability and accessibility of their websites is by outsourcing it to a third-party testing company.

Accessibility, in a nutshell, is usability for all.

It ensures that everyone has equal access to your website, no matter what limitations or disabilities they have.

Accessible websites have all elements from the text to the visuals and audio components available for people with disabilities.

It’s hard to cater to all disabilities, but by following the recommendations provided by the WCAG, Section 508, and relevant policies on accessibility, you can make your website usable and accessible for people with varying disabilities.

91 comments

  1. I have learn a few excellent stuff here. Definitely
    worth bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how so
    much attempt you place to make one of these great informative web site.

  2. Greate article. Keep writing such kind of information on your site.
    Im really impressed by it.
    Hello there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I’ll definitely digg
    it and in my view suggest to my friends. I’m sure they’ll
    be benefited from this website.

  3. What i do not realize is if truth be told how you’re no longer really
    much more smartly-liked than you might be right now.
    You’re very intelligent. You know therefore significantly on the subject of this topic, made me for my part imagine
    it from a lot of numerous angles. Its like women and men aren’t interested unless it is one thing to accomplish with
    Woman gaga! Your own stuffs great. All the time maintain it up!

  5. When someone writes an post he/she keeps the thought of a user in his/her mind that how a user can understand it.
    Thus that’s why this post is great. Thanks!

  8. You could definitely see your enthusiasm within the work you
    write. The world hopes for even more passionate writers such as you
    who are not afraid to say how they believe. All the time go after your heart.

    Feel free to visit my web blog 918kaya download ios (https://xe88-my.com)

  9. I do accept as true with all the ideas you have offered to your post.
    They’re very convincing and can definitely work. Nonetheless, the posts are too short for novices.
    May just you please lengthen them a bit from next time?
    Thanks for the post.

    my web site :: joker123 apk new version (Mikayla)

  10. Your style is so unique compared to other people I have read stuff
    from. Thanks for posting when you have the opportunity,
    Guess I will just book mark this web site.

    Have a look at my blog post; i 3win8

  11. A motivating discussion is worth comment. There’s no doubt that that you
    ought to write more on this subject matter, it might not be a
    taboo matter but generally folks don’t discuss such issues.
    To the next! Many thanks!!

    Here is my web site … Danilo

  13. certainly like your web-site but you need to take a
    look at the spelling on quite a few of your posts.
    Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very bothersome to inform the
    truth nevertheless I will surely come back again.

    My web blog; http://www.lubertsi.net

  21. Wonderful blog you have here but I was wanting to know if
    you knew of any user discussion forums that cover the same topics talked about in this article?
    I’d really love to be a part of online community where I
    can get feedback from other experienced individuals that share the
    same interest. If you have any suggestions, please let
    me know. Thank you!

    Visit my web-site … http://www.mhes.tyc.edu.tw

  22. Does your site have a contact page? I’m having a tough time locating it but, I’d like to send you an email.

    I’ve got some suggestions for your blog you might be interested in hearing.
    Either way, great site and I look forward to seeing it grow over time.

    Also visit my homepage: kebe.top

  31. I’m really impressed with your writing abilities as smartly as with the
    layout to your weblog. Is this a paid subject or did you customize it
    your self? Either way keep up the excellent quality writing,
    it is uncommon to see a nice blog like this one today..

    my web site: kebe.top

  36. I don’t drop many comments, however i did some searching and
    wound up here Website Accessibility and UX: How Are They Related?
    – Pavvy Designs. And I actually do have a couple of questions for you if it’s allright.

    Could it be just me or does it give the impression like some of
    these comments come across as if they are written by brain dead individuals?
    😛 And, if you are writing at other online sites, I would
    like to keep up with anything fresh you have to post.
    Could you make a list of all of all your community pages like your twitter feed, Facebook page or
    linkedin profile?

    My website – frun-test.sakura.ne.jp

  38. I’m very happy to read this. This is the kind of manual that
    needs to be given and not the random misinformation that
    is at the other blogs. Appreciate your sharing this greatest doc.

    Also visit my web site – kebe.top

  40. I think other site proprietors should take this web site as
    an model, very clean and excellent user genial style and design, as well as the content.
    You’re an expert in this topic!

    My blog: open-csm.com

  42. hello there and thank you for your info ? I?ve definitely picked up anything new from right here.
    I did however expertise a few technical points using this web site, as I experienced to reload the
    web site many times previous to I could get it to load properly.
    I had been wondering if your web hosting is OK?
    Not that I’m complaining, but sluggish loading instances times will often affect your placement
    in google and could damage your high-quality score if ads and marketing with Adwords.
    Anyway I am adding this RSS to my e-mail and can look out for much more of your respective
    interesting content. Ensure that you update this again soon..

    Feel free to surf to my web-site … clubriders.men

  45. Admiring the hard work you put into your site and in depth
    information you present. It’s good to come across a
    blog every once in a while that isn’t the same unwanted rehashed information. Fantastic read!
    I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.

    Here is my web site; bbs.pdmao.com

  47. I loved as much as you’ll receive carried out right here.
    The sketch is tasteful, your authored material stylish.
    nonetheless, you command get bought an impatience over that you wish be delivering the following.
    unwell unquestionably come more formerly again since exactly the same nearly a lot often inside
    case you shield this increase.

    my web blog – Mari

  48. I’m not sure exactly why but this website is loading extremely slow for me.
    Is anyone else having this issue or is it a problem on my end?
    I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.

    Feel free to visit my site – lovegamematch.com

  54. Its not my first time to pay a visit this site, i am visiting this
    web site dailly and get pleasant information from here every day.

    Visit my page … kebe.top

  58. With havin so much content do you ever run into any issues of plagorism or copyright violation? My site has a lot of completely unique content I’ve either created myself or outsourced but it looks
    like a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my agreement.

    Do you know any techniques to help protect against content from being ripped off?
    I’d really appreciate it.

    Also visit my website Nuubu Reviews

  59. I still can’t quite believe I could end up being one of those studying the important points
    found on your blog. My family and I are truly
    thankful for the generosity and for providing me the chance to pursue our chosen profession path.
    Appreciate your sharing the important information I got from your web site.

    Also visit my blog Breeze Tech Reviews

  70. Hey there would you mind letting me know which hosting company you’re using?

    I’ve loaded your blog in 3 different internet browsers and
    I must say this blog loads a lot quicker then most.
    Can you suggest a good internet hosting provider at a
    fair price? Many thanks, I appreciate it! https://8tracks.com/george4023

  75. It is the best time to make some plans for the longer term and it’s time to be
    happy. I have read this put up and if I may just I wish to recommend
    you few fascinating things or suggestions. Perhaps you could write next articles referring to this article.

    I wish to read even more things approximately it!

    Feel free to visit my web page :: https://jpgsoft.co.kr/index.php?mid=picknotice&m=0&page=1&document_srl=1081505

  76. Pretty great post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wished to mention that
    I have really loved surfing around your weblog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing for your feed and I hope you write once more soon!

    Check out my site; Clement

  78. Hey there! I could have sworn I’ve been to this site before but after reading through some of the post I
    realized it’s new to me. Nonetheless, I’m definitely happy I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!

    Feel free to visit my web blog; Libido Build Rx

  82. Hmm it looks like your blog ate my first comment (it
    was extremely long) so I guess I’ll just sum
    it up what I had written and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your
    blog. I too am an aspiring blog writer but I’m still new to everything.

    Do you have any tips for beginner blog writers? I’d definitely appreciate it.

    Also visit my blog post increase muscle mass

  84. Thank you for your site post. Johnson and I are already saving for just a
    new book on this issue and your article has made people like
    us to save our money. Your thoughts really clarified all our questions.

    In fact, greater than what we had acknowledged just before we
    ran into your fantastic blog. I actually no longer nurture doubts along with a troubled mind because you have attended to
    the needs here. Thanks

    Also visit my homepage :: http://mainsevents.com/index.php?action=profile;u=63608

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.