As more businesses move online, the importance of creating a strong web presence cannot be overstated. This has led to a surge in demand for web design services, as companies strive to create websites that are visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly.
Accessibility
One of the most crucial aspects of web design today is accessibility. This means designing websites, tools, and technologies that people with disabilities can use easily. Web designers play a vital role in making sure websites are accessible to everyone by using design techniques and technologies that enable people with disabilities to navigate and interact with a website effectively. (Format became a member of the Guild of Accessible Web Designers (GAWDS) in 2002. This was a world-wide association of organisations and accessible web designers and developers promoting accessible and responsible website design and standards).
Alt Tags
Alt tags are a critical part of accessible web design. They are descriptive text alternatives used to explain images on a website. Alt tags are crucial for users who are visually impaired or use screen readers as they rely on the alt tag to understand the content of an image.
Simple Language
Using clear and simple language is another key aspect of accessible web design. This is essential for users with cognitive disabilities who may struggle with complex language or abstract concepts. Web designers can ensure that content is written in a clear and concise manner, using simple language and easy-to-understand concepts.
Assistive Technology
Web designers can also incorporate assistive technologies to improve accessibility. For example, they can add keyboard navigation, which allows users to navigate a website using the keyboard instead of a mouse. Users with motor disabilities often rely on a keyboard, particularly those with tremors that impair fine muscle control or who have limited or no use of their hands. Some users may require modified keyboards or other hardware that replicates keyboard functionality. Blind users also commonly use a keyboard for navigation, while non-disabled users may choose to do so for personal preference or efficiency.
Video captioning is another feature that can help users who are deaf or hard of hearing understand the content of a video. Captions are the text version of the speech and non-speech shown on the video as it plays.
Prioritising accessibility in web design is crucial to ensure that websites are usable by all users, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. This not only benefits users with disabilities, but also improves the overall user experience for all users. By working with a web design company that specialises in accessibility, businesses can create websites that are visually appealing, user-friendly, and accessible to users with disabilities.
For further information on accessible web design or any other website related topics, contact Format Web Design on 071 9131991.
