Accessibility

1. Accessibility Standards and Guidelines

• WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines): The primary standard to follow. Aim for WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance.
• Section 508: If operating in the United States, ensure compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

2. Key Areas to Evaluate

Perceivable

• Text Alternatives: Ensure all images have descriptive alt text.
• Time-Based Media: Provide captions and transcripts for videos.
• Adaptable Content: Content should be adaptable to different formats, including screen readers.
• Distinguishable: Ensure sufficient color contrast between text and background. Avoid using color alone to convey information.

Operable

• Keyboard Accessible: All functionality should be operable via a keyboard.
• Enough Time: Provide users enough time to read and interact with content.
• Seizures and Physical Reactions: Avoid content that could cause seizures (e.g., flashing animations).
• Navigable: Provide clear navigation options, including a site map. Use descriptive link text and consistent navigation.

Understandable

• Readable: Use clear and simple language. Provide definitions for complex terms.
• Predictable: Ensure web pages appear and operate in predictable ways.
• Input Assistance: Help users avoid and correct mistakes, such as form errors.

Robust

• Compatible: Ensure compatibility with current and future user agents, including assistive technologies. Use proper HTML and ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) landmarks and roles.

3. Tools and Techniques for Evaluation

Automated Tools:

• WAVE: Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool
• Axe by Deque: Accessibility testing tool for developers
• Lighthouse: Built into Chrome DevTools

Screen Readers:

• NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access): Free screen reader for Windows
• JAWS (Job Access With Speech): Popular screen reader for Windows
• VoiceOver: Built-in screen reader for macOS and iOS

Manual Testing:

• Keyboard navigation checks (tab order, focus indicators)
• Color contrast analyzers
• Semantic HTML checks

4. Implementation and Testing

• Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Perform a thorough audit using the tools mentioned.
• User Testing: Engage users with disabilities to test the website and provide feedback.
• Iterative Improvements: Implement changes based on audit findings and user feedback. Regularly update and test the website to maintain accessibility.

5. Best Practices

• Provide Alternative Text for Images: All informative images should have descriptive alt text.
• Ensure Keyboard Accessibility: Test that all interactive elements (e.g., buttons, links) are accessible via keyboard.
• Use Semantic HTML: Use proper heading structures, lists, and landmarks to provide meaningful context and navigation.
• Implement ARIA: Use ARIA roles, states, and properties to enhance the accessibility of dynamic content.
• Caption and Transcribe Media: Provide captions for videos and transcripts for audio content.
• Regularly Update and Test: Accessibility is an ongoing process. Regularly test the website and keep up with updates in accessibility standards.