How to Ensure Your Digital Product Follows Accessibility Guidelines

Accessibility in the realm of digital products is paramount in today's technologically advanced era. It refers to the design of products, devices, services, or environments for people who experience disabilities. The focus of accessibility is to ensure that all potential users, including people with disabilities, have an equal opportunity to access and enjoy digital content. For businesses, prioritizing accessibility is not only ethically sound but also commercially beneficial. It broadens the customer base to include 15% of the global population - over a billion people - who live with some form of disability. Moreover, accessible digital products enhance the user experience for all customers, leading to higher customer satisfaction. Businesses that neglect digital accessibility may not only miss out on potential customers but also run the risk of legal repercussions.

Understanding and Applying Guidelines

Familiarize yourself with and apply international accessibility guidelines like the WCAG, which provide a comprehensive framework for creating accessible digital products. These guidelines include four key principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Perceivable means that users must be able to perceive the information through sight, sound, or touch. Operable implies that all elements of the digital product should be functional using a variety of input methods. Understandable requires that users can comprehend and navigate through the content easily. Robust ensures that the product is compatible with various assistive technologies. To adhere to these guidelines, businesses should conduct regular accessibility audits and user testing to identify areas for improvement or even rely on compliance consultants to guide them through the process. Moreover, businesses need to ensure that all team members, including designers and developers, are educated on accessibility best practices and incorporate them into their work processes.

Inclusive Design and Color Contrast

Design your product with all users in mind and ensure color choices have sufficient contrast for those with visual impairments. Color contrast refers to the difference in luminance or brightness between two colors, typically represented by a ratio. For example, white text on a black background has a high contrast ratio, making it easier for users with low vision to read. On the other hand, yellow text on a white background may be challenging to distinguish. A general rule of thumb is to aim for at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio for small text and 3:1 for large text. Numerous online tools are available to help check color contrast ratios, making it easier for businesses to conform to accessibility guidelines. When designing icons or images, ensure that they are not the sole means of conveying information. Use text alternatives, such as alt tags, to describe these elements for users with visual impairments using screen readers.

Keyboard Accessibility and Alt Text

Make sure all functionalities of the product are accessible via a keyboard and that all images have descriptive alternative text. This is essential for users who cannot use a mouse or have difficulty clicking on small buttons. Keyboard accessibility means that all features, such as menus and links, can be accessed using only the keyboard. It involves proper tab ordering, focus indicators, and keyboard shortcuts to improve navigation for users with motor impairments. Additionally, images should have appropriate alt text that conveys their function and purpose. This allows screen readers to read out the text for users who cannot view the image, providing them with equal access to information.

Captioning, Text Size, and Fonts

Provide captions or transcripts for all video or audio content and opt for clearly legible fonts and easily readable text sizes. Captions are an essential feature for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to access video content. Similarly, transcripts provide the same function for audio content. It is also helpful to have adjustable text sizes and choose sans-serif fonts that are easier to read on screens. Avoid using fancy or decorative fonts as they can be difficult to decipher. For example, instead of using a cursive font for headings, opt for bold sans-serif fonts. Additionally, use proper heading structures to organize content and make it easier to navigate for users with cognitive or learning disabilities.

User Testing

Test your product with a diverse user group, including people with disabilities, to identify and fix any accessibility issues. User testing is an essential step in ensuring your product follows accessibility guidelines. It allows businesses to gain valuable feedback from potential customers with disabilities and make any necessary improvements or modifications. Testing with a diverse group also helps identify any unintentional bias in the product design, allowing for a more inclusive final product. For instance, a product that only caters to users with perfect eyesight may alienate or exclude potential customers with visual impairments. By conducting user testing, businesses can create a product that is not only accessible but inclusive as well.

In conclusion, ensuring your digital product follows accessibility guidelines is crucial for creating an inclusive and equitable experience for all users. By adhering to international accessibility standards, designing with all users in mind, and conducting regular testing and audits, businesses can create a product that not only meets the needs of individuals with disabilities but also leads to commercial success. By prioritizing accessibility, businesses can unlock new markets and provide equal access to digital content for all individuals. So, it is essential for companies to prioritize accessibility in their digital products and continue to evolve and improve in this aspect. Let's work together to create a more inclusive, accessible digital world for everyone.