Web accessibility refers to the
inclusive practice of making
websites usable by people of all abilities and
disabilities. When sites are correctly designed, developed and edited, all users can have equal access to information and functionality. For example, when a site is coded with semantically meaningful
HTML, with textual equivalents provided for images and with links named meaningfully, this helps blind users using text-to-speech software and/or text-to-Braille hardware. When text and images are large and/or enlargeable, it is easier for users with poor sight to read and understand the content. When links are underlined as well as coloured, this ensures that
color blind users will be able to notice them. When
clickable links and areas are large, this helps users who cannot control a
mouse with precision. When pages are coded so that users can navigate by means of the
keyboard alone, or a single
switch access device alone, this helps users who cannot use a mouse or even a standard keyboard. When videos are
closed captioned or a
sign language version is available, deaf and hard-of-hearing users can understand the video. When flashing effects are avoided or made optional, users prone to
seizures caused by these effects are not put at risk. And when content is written in plain language and illustrated with instructional diagrams and animations, users with
dyslexia and
learning difficulties are better able to understand the content. When sites are correctly built and maintained, all of these users can be accommodated without decreasing the usability of the site for non-disabled users.
powered by
Loading More Stories
