When it comes to building an inclusive digital presence, you need to consider whether your content is accessible and inclusive for everyone. Including individuals living with disabilities. Accessibility shouldn’t be a “nice to have” feature; it should be the standard. In honour of Global Accessibility Awareness Day this May, we’re sharing our tips on how you can start making your digital presence more inclusive:
1. Modify Your Digital Presence for Accessibility and Inclusivity
A big part of accessibility lies in how easy it is for people to navigate your site. Websites should be designed with accessibility in mind from the beginning, but if you’re starting from scratch or making improvements, here are a few things to consider:
Use Clear, Readable Fonts
Choosing the right font can make a huge difference in readability, especially for individuals with dyslexia, visual impairments, or cognitive disabilities. Avoid overly stylised fonts, and opt for simple and clean fonts that are easier to read on digital screens.
Ensure Good Color Contrast
Color contrast is vital for individuals with visual impairments, such as color blindness or low vision. When selecting background and text colors, make sure there is enough contrast between them so that the text is easily readable. For instance, black text on a white background provides high contrast, making it much easier for people with low vision to read.
If your website relies on color to differentiate content, ensure you provide an additional way to distinguish the elements. For example, use icons or text labels along with colored buttons to ensure colorblind users can still access the information.
Install an Accessibility Tool or Widget
One effective way to enhance your website’s accessibility is by installing an accessibility tool or widget that allows users to customise their browsing experience. These tools can offer a range of features, such as:
- Font size adjustments: Allow users to increase or decrease text size to suit their preferences.
- Color contrast changes: Let users switch to high-contrast mode for better readability.
- Text-to-speech: Some users with visual impairments or learning disabilities may benefit from having the text on your site read aloud to them.
- Keyboard navigation: Ensure that all elements on the site are navigable via keyboard for users with motor impairments.
2. Add Captions and Transcripts to Videos
Videos are an engaging way to connect with your audience, but they can be a barrier for individuals with a hearing impairment. Adding captions and transcripts to your videos makes your content accessible to a wider audience. Just be sure to review all captions for accuracy for accessible and inclusive digital presence.
3. Improve Navigation for Forms and Buttons
Ensure that form fields are properly labeled and easy to navigate with a keyboard. This is crucial for people with motor impairments who might not be able to use a mouse effectively. Make sure all buttons are clearly labeled and accessible with screen readers.
4. Test Regularly
Lastly, it’s important to test your website regularly for accessibility. There are tools like WAVE and Lighthouse that can help you identify issues and ensure you are up to date with the latest features and accessibility tools.
By focusing on accessibility, you’re showing your audience that you care. And, creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to engage with and enjoy your content. Let’s continue working toward a future where accessibility is the norm, not the exception. If you’d like some tips on how to support NDIS participants living with a disability, reach out today. We’d love to help!