Web accessibility means that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them. More specifically, people can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the Web, and they can contribute to the Web.
Web accessibility encompasses all disabilities that affect access to the Web, including auditory, cognitive, neurological, physical, speech, and visual disabilities.
The Web is fundamentally designed to work for all people, whatever their hardware, software, language, location, or ability. When the Web meets this goal, it is accessible to people with a diverse range of hearing, movement, sight, and cognitive ability.
Access to information and communications technologies, including the Web, is defined as a basic human right in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are developed through the W3C process in cooperation with individuals and organizations around the world. The goal is to provide a single shared standard for web content accessibility that meets the needs of individuals, organizations, and governments internationally.
WCAG documents explain how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. WCAG 2.2 has 13 guidelines organized under 4 principles: perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Each guideline has testable success criteria at three levels: A, AA, and AAA.
Start by learning the basics of semantic HTML. Use proper heading structure, provide text alternatives for images, ensure sufficient color contrast, and make all interactive elements keyboard accessible.
Use automated testing tools like axe or Lighthouse to identify common issues, then test with a keyboard and screen reader. Involve people with disabilities in your testing process for the most accurate feedback.