Imagine hosting a party but having a door so small only 4’11” or smaller guests can enter. That’s what an inaccessible website feels like to your potential customers. Don’t worry, however: it is not too hard to make your website accessible for all visitors. But it is important if you want your sales high. So, let’s break this down in easy steps.
What Is Web Accessibility?
It refers to making your website usable by everyone,regardless of whatever device they might be using to access your website. Specially helpful for those with disabilities. Someone might be using screen readers, keyboard instead of the mouse, or even voice commands while browsing the internet. Your task? Ensure your website works smoothly the same for everyone.
Why Bother with Accessibility?
First, it’s the right thing to do. Second, Google loves accessible websites, which means better search rankings. Third, the more people who can use your site, the more visitors you will retain (and potential customers) giving you more business. Oh, and in some places, it’s forced the law. One wouldn’t want to get into trouble for not being inclusive, or would you?
How to Make Your Website Accessible
- Add Alt Text to Images: Alt text is describing a picture to someone who can’t see it. Instead of calling your image “IMG2345,” write “A smiling dog wearing a red scarf.” It’s useful for screen readers and even helps with SEO. That’s a Win-Win!
- Navigation: Keep it simpleMenus should be easy to use. Use clear names such as “Home,” “Shop,” or “Contact Us.” Avoid using fancy names such as “Journey” or “Magic Portal.” Plus, ensure that visitors could navigate your site without their mouse, using only their keyboard
- Select Colors everyone can See: Some people can’t distinguish particular colors, such as red versus green. Use high contrast colours for text and backgrounds to have things read easily. If it looks like a faded watercolor painting, it’s time for a change.
- Use Captions for Videos: Not everyone can hear your videos. Adding captions helps people who are deaf or hard of hearing—and let’s face it, even people watching videos in public without headphones will thank you.
- Big Buttons: Make Buttons Big and Clickable Nobody likes tiny buttons that are impossible to click. Use big, clear buttons with simple labels like “Buy Now” or “Sign Up.” People shouldn’t need a microscope to use your site.
- Headings: Structuring Your Content with Headings helps your page. use them in sequence: H1 for the main title, H2 for subheadings, and so on. Skipping from H1 to H4 is like jumping from Chapter 1 to Chapter 10—confusing for everyone, especially screen readers.
- Run Tests: Test Your Website How to know whether the website is accessible? Apply free tools such as WAVE or Lighthouse that help find and rectify the problems. Or just ask some real people with disabilities to try it out-they’ll give you feedback which tools can’t.
Final Thoughts
Making your website accessible is like opening your door wide for everybody. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about being kind and practical. And the more people who can enjoy your site, the more successful it will be.
So start making these small changes today. Remember, a website that works for everyone is a website that everyone will want to visit. And isn’t that the whole point?