Web accessibility is not an optional aesthetic layer; it is fundamental engineering that ensures people of all abilities can read, navigate, and interact with digital content.
Give the page a clear information structure
A useful website helps visitors understand where they are, what the organisation does, and how to take the next step. Use a predictable navigation structure and headings that describe the section below them. Avoid relying on colour alone to communicate status, and make interactive elements identifiable without a mouse.
Make text and controls easier to use
Choose readable font sizes, comfortable line spacing, and sufficient contrast. Provide visible focus indicators for keyboard users and labels for every form field. Write alternative text for informative images; decorative images can use empty alternative text so screen readers do not announce unnecessary details.
Test with real tasks
Ask someone to complete a task using only a keyboard, zoom the page, and try it on a narrow screen. Automated checks can find some problems, but manual testing reveals confusing language and awkward workflows.
Accessibility test checklist
- Navigate the page with a keyboard and ensure focus is always visible.
- Give each form field a persistent label and associate errors with the field.
- Add useful alternative text to informative images; use empty alt text for decorative ones.
- Check text and control contrast, zoom, headings, link purpose, and responsive reflow.
- Test important tasks with assistive technology where possible.
Fix barriers by impact
Prioritise issues that stop people completing essential tasks. Retest after changes and make accessibility checks part of normal releases.