Create inclusive websites accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, following WCAG standards and best practices.
Orion IT Service Team
June 4, 2026
Approximately 1 billion people worldwide have disabilities. Many use the web despite challenges like vision impairments, hearing loss, mobility issues, or cognitive disabilities. Websites that don't accommodate these users exclude them from information, services, and opportunities. Web accessibility ensures websites work for everyone regardless of ability. Accessible websites improve user experience for all users. They're also legally required in many jurisdictions under laws like the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) provides standards for accessible web design.
WCAG 2.1 is the current standard with three conformance levels: A (basic), AA (enhanced), and AAA (specialized). Most organizations target WCAG 2.1 AA. Guidelines are organized into four principles: Perceivable (content is visible and audible), Operable (users can navigate and control), Understandable (content and interface are clear), Robust (works with assistive technologies).
Alt text describes images so screen readers can explain them to blind users. Color contrast must be sufficient so colorblind and low-vision users can read text. Keyboard navigation allows users who can't use mice to navigate websites using Tab, Enter, and arrow keys. Focus indicators show which element is currently selected. Captions and transcripts make video and audio content accessible to deaf and hard-of-hearing users.
Use semantic HTML elements like headings (h1-h6), lists (ul, ol), and landmark elements (nav, main, aside) to structure content meaningfully. Assistive technologies use semantic structure to help users navigate. Avoid using styles or scripts to create structure that should be HTML.
Associate labels with form fields using label elements. Provide error messages that clearly explain what's wrong and how to fix it. Make form fields keyboard navigable and indicate required fields. Test forms with screen readers to ensure they work correctly.
Test with screen readers like NVDA (free) or JAWS (commercial). Test keyboard navigation without a mouse. Check color contrast with tools like WebAIM Contrast Checker. Use automated tools like Axe or Lighthouse to identify accessibility issues. User testing with people with disabilities is most valuable. Ongoing accessibility testing throughout development prevents problems.
Key Takeaway
Accessible websites welcome all users and comply with legal requirements. Implementing WCAG standards ensures websites are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for everyone.
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