Incorporating Accessibility into Web Projects

Accessibility isn't just about compliance—it's about building apps that work for everyone. Thinking about accessibility from the start makes apps more usable and easier to maintain.

Why Accessibility Matters

Accessible web applications:

  • Work for users with disabilities
  • Provide better experiences for all users
  • Are easier to maintain and update
  • Align with professional best practices

Practical Implementation

Semantic HTML

Using semantic HTML elements provides meaning and structure that assistive technologies can interpret:

<nav>
  <ul>
    <li><a href="/">Home</a></li>
    <li><a href="/about/">About</a></li>
  </ul>
</nav>

Semantic elements like <nav>, <main>, <article>, and <section> communicate page structure to screen readers and other assistive technologies.

Keyboard Navigation

Ensuring all interactive elements are keyboard accessible is essential. Users should be able to:

  • Navigate through all links and buttons using the Tab key
  • Activate elements using Enter or Space
  • See clear focus indicators

ARIA Attributes

When semantic HTML isn't sufficient, ARIA attributes provide additional context:

<button aria-label="Close navigation menu" aria-expanded="false">
  <span aria-hidden="true">×</span>
</button>

Color Contrast

Text must have sufficient contrast against background colors. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) specify minimum contrast ratios for different text sizes.

Alternative Text

Images should include descriptive alternative text:

<img src="/images/diagram.png" alt="System architecture diagram showing three-tier structure">

Documentation for Maintainability

Clear documentation supports accessibility by:

  • Explaining accessibility decisions and implementations
  • Providing guidance for future updates
  • Ensuring accessibility considerations aren't lost over time

Testing for Accessibility

Accessibility testing should be part of the development process:

  • Manual keyboard navigation testing
  • Screen reader testing
  • Automated accessibility testing tools
  • User testing with people who have disabilities

Long-Term Benefits

Projects that incorporate accessibility from the start are:

  • Easier to maintain and update
  • More resilient to changes in technology
  • Better positioned for future requirements
  • More professional in their implementation

Conclusion

Accessibility is essential for professional web applications. When I build accessibility into projects from the start, the apps work better for everyone and are easier to maintain.