What is WCAG?
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a series of comprehensive technical standards maintained by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Adherence to these guidelines enhances the accessibility of digital content, encompassing websites and web applications, for individuals with diverse disabilities. These disabilities include auditory, cognitive, neurological, physical, speech, and visual impairments. By implementing WCAG principles, developers can create online experiences that are inclusive and usable for a broader audience, including those who rely on assistive technologies.
WCAG Basics
The WCAG framework is structured around four fundamental principles, conveniently remembered by the acronym POUR. The POUR principles provide a comprehensive framework for digital accessibility and can be applied to any digital product or service, regardless of the specific technology used to create it.
Perceivable
Users must be able to perceive the information presented. This means content should be available to the senses (sight, hearing, touch) either directly or through assistive technologies like screen readers.
Understandable
Content must be clear, concise, and presented in a predictable way. Users should be able to easily understand the information and how to use the interface. This includes aspects like language clarity, consistent layout, and avoiding ambiguity.
Operable
Users must be able to interact with all controls and interactive elements using a mouse, keyboard, or assistive device. Navigation and functionality should be designed to be easily operated by individuals with varying abilities.
Robust
Content must be compatible with a wide range of user agents, including assistive technologies. This ensures that the content remains accessible as technologies and user agents evolve.
Conformance Levels:
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) define three levels of conformance, each indicating a different degree of accessibility
A
Level A: Fundamental
Basic accessibility features that are crucial for most users.
This is the foundational level of accessibility. If Level A criteria are not met, people using assistive technologies may find it impossible to access or navigate the content. Basic functions like screen readers interpreting text or keyboard navigation may be completely blocked. This level addresses the most critical barriers to access.
AA
Level AA: Recommended
Targets the most prevalent accessibility challenges encountered by users with disabilities.
This level builds upon Level A and is considered the standard for most websites and applications. It addresses a wider range of disabilities and ensures greater usability for people with diverse needs. Many governments and public sector organizations require websites to meet WCAG Level AA. This level strikes a balance between providing a highly accessible experience and being realistically achievable for most organizations.
AAA
Level AAA: Advanced
The most thorough level of web accessibility, though not always feasible.
This is the highest level of WCAG conformance, addressing the most significant accessibility barriers. However, it's not always feasible or necessary to achieve AAA compliance across an entire website. It is often reserved for specific sections of a website or applications designed for specialized audiences with particular accessibility needs.
Checklist:
While this checklist does not guarantee full accessibility, it is imperative that the issues identified be addressed. These improvements will enhance the user experience for all visitors, including those with a wide range of disabilities.
It is crucial to understand that achieving "perfect accessibility" is an ongoing process, not a finite goal. Beware of any claims promising "100% accessibility" – such assurances are misleading and often unfounded.
For professional guidance and support in ensuring your site meets accessibility standards, please reach out to us.
Images:
Provide detailed descriptions for all visual and auditory content using alternative text. This allows assistive technologies, including screen readers, keyboard navigation software, and braille displays, to accurately interpret and present the information to users with varying disabilities.
Text:
Improve the readability and accessibility of your content by using strong color contrast between foreground elements (like text) and background elements. This benefits everyone, especially users with visual impairments.
Use headings (H1, H2, etc.) to structure your content and make it easier to scan. Ensure headings are used in a logical order.
Use clear and simple language that is easy to understand. Avoid jargon and technical terms when possible.
Navigation:
Use unique and informative page titles that accurately describe the content of each page.
Make sure all interactive elements (links, buttons, forms) can be accessed and used with a keyboard alone. Test by navigating your site without a mouse.
Use descriptive link text that explains where the link leads. Avoid vague phrases like "click here."
Example: Instead of "Click here to learn more," use "Learn more about our services."
Forms:
Provide clear labels for all form fields.
Display clear and descriptive error messages that help users understand and correct mistakes.
Multimedia:
Provide captions for all videos with audio.
Offer text transcripts for audio content.
Other Content:
Use a consistent and predictable page layout to help users understand and navigate your site.
Use proper table markup (<table>, <th>, <td>) to make tables accessible to screen readers.