7 Ways to Improve Website Usability and Accessibility
Making sure your website is usable and accessible to all visitors is essential to the success of your online presence. Here are 7 ways you can improve website usability and accessibility:
1. Use clear and concise language
Clear and concise language on a website is important to aid accessibility for people. The use of plain language can improve accessibility by making it easier for everyone to read and understand the content of a website, especially to aid those with cognitive impairments.
Technicality
When writing for the web, it is important to consider the accessibility of your content for all users. The language you use on your website should be easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might not be familiar to all visitors.
Inclusivity
Inclusive language also helps to ensure that people with disabilities feel welcome and included on your website. Inclusive language is language that is free from bias, prejudice, and offensive terms. It is important to use inclusive language in order to ensure that everyone feels welcome and included.
For example, instead of using the term "handicapped," which suggests that someone with a disability is at a disadvantage, you could use the term "accessible." This word implies that the person is able to participate fully in life, without barriers. By using inclusive language, we can make sure that everyone feels valued and respected.
2. Optimise for mobile devices
More and more people are using their mobile devices to access the internet. Mobile-friendly websites are easier to use and navigate, and they load faster than sites that are not optimised for mobile devices.
This is especially important for people with accessibility needs, who may have difficulty using a traditional desktop computer. Make sure your website is optimized for mobile devices so that everyone can have a positive experience on your site.
3. Use descriptive link text
The text you use for links should be descriptive so that visitors know where they will be taken when they click on the link. For example, instead of using "click here," try something like "learn more about our products."
By using descriptive link text, individuals who are blind or have low vision can more easily navigate websites. Screen reader software can read the link text aloud, providing critical information about where the link will take the user. When links are not properly labeled, screen reader users may have difficulty understanding where they are going on a website. This can lead to frustration and ultimately deter accessibility. In order to make the internet accessible for all users, it is vital that website owners use descriptive link text to promote accessibility.
4. Include alt text for images
Alt text is used to describe images for those who are unable to see them. This is important for users with visual impairments as well as those who are browsing the web on mobile devices with slower data speeds.
One of the most important accessibility features is alt text. Alt text is a brief description of an image that is displayed if the image cannot be rendered or for those who are unable to see them.
Similar to descriptive links, alt text on websites because it allows screen readers and users with visual impairments or low vision to see images to understand the content of an image that would otherwise be inaccessible to them. Alt text is also useful for those who are browsing the web on mobile devices with slower data speeds so the text still allows the user to navigate the site without needing to load graphics.
5. Use headings and subheadings
Headings and subheadings can help those with disabilities navigate websites more easily and find the information they need. Headings and subheadings help break up your content and make it easier to scan and more readable overall.
When used properly, headings and subheadings can be a great way to improve accessibility for all users. Screen reading apps or speech-to-text can navigate your website more easily as the text heading format in H1, H2, H3 etc helps show the ordering of the content and dictates to the screen reader the correct order that the text should be read.
6. Include a search function
A search function allows visitors to quickly find the information they're looking for on your website. It allows users to find the information they need quickly and easily, without having to navigate through complex menus or pages.
This is especially useful for sites with a lot of content or complex navigation menus. Including a search function on your website shows that you're committed to accessibility and inclusion, and it can make a big difference to someone's day to make your website easier and thus more enjoyable to use.
7. Design for accessibility from the start
When creating or redesigning your website, keep accessibility in mind from the start as it ensures that everyone will be able to use and enjoy the resulting website. It also saves time and money in the long run, as it is much easier to add accessibility features during the design phase than it is to retroactively add them later on.
These are just a few ways you can improve website usability and accessibility. By following these tips, you can make sure that everyone has a positive experience on your site.
Looking for a new website that follows modern accessibility standards? Get in touch with Gem Media.
