Everybody deserves to hear what you’ve got to say. And you’re in luck, because WordPress stands out as the best choice for its user-friendly interface and versatility. Let’s explore the importance of web accessibility, key accessibility features in WordPress, and practical tips to ensure that your next WordPress website is inclusive to all.
Online accessibility is about making websites usable for everyone, regardless of their abilities. This includes site visitors with visual impairments, hearing loss, motor disabilities, cognitive challenges, and more. Accessible websites don’t just cater to people with disabilities; they also benefit users on slow connections, mobile devices, or in challenging environments.
Why choose WordPress for accessibility?
WordPress powers nearly 40% of all websites on the internet and much of its popularity is due to its customisable nature, a wide range of themes and plugins, and a relatively simple user interface. For individuals, businesses, and organisations looking to create accessible websites, WordPress offers valuable tools and resources to achieve that goal.
Our favourite key accessibility features in WordPress
Semantic HTML: Themes with semantic HTML ensure that content is properly organised, making it easier for assistive technologies to understand and present it.
Keyboard navigation: People with motor disabilities may find it difficult to use a mouse or touchpad for navigation. WordPress ensures that all interactive elements, such as buttons and links, can be accessed and used using a keyboard alone.
Alt text for images: Adding accurate descriptive alt text to images allows screen readers to convey visual information to users who cannot see the images.
Readable fonts and colour contrast: Choose easy-to-read fonts and ensure sufficient colour contrast between text and background to make content accessible to people with visual impairments.
Accessible forms: Design forms with clear labels, error messages, and logical tab orders to aid users in filling them out accurately.
Video and audio content: For multimedia content, provide captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions. This ensures that users with hearing or visual impairments can access the information, as well as those who aren’t able to have sound on.
Accessibility for Dummies: WordPress offers a selection of themes and plugins that adhere to accessibility standards. These can serve as a solid foundation for your accessible website.
Easy structure: Organise your content using proper heading tags (H1, H2, etc.) and lists. This helps screen readers and users with cognitive disabilities understand the content’s structure.
Employ responsive design: Make sure your website is responsive and works well on various devices and screen sizes, accommodating users with different needs.
Audit tools: Conduct regular accessibility audits using tools like Axe. These tools can help identify accessibility issues and guide your efforts to improve them.
As a popular and versatile platform, WordPress offers numerous tools and features to help you create accessible websites. By understanding the importance of accessibility, utilising WordPress’s capabilities, and implementing practical tips, you can ensure that your website is welcoming and usable for all of your visitors.
