Graphic Designer Archives /Tag

UX in Mind: Your Simple Guide to Accessible Design
The success of any website or app really boils down to one thing: how it feels to use. If people can navigate your site easily, find what they’re looking for, and get things done without frustration, they’re far more likely to stick around—and come back. But when the experience is confusing, clunky, or leaves some users behind? That’s when you lose them.

At its core, good UX design is about making sure everyone can use your product—regardless of ability, device, or familiarity. The best experiences don’t just work for some; they work for all.

We’ve put together a practical checklist to help you design with accessibility in mind—covering visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive needs. And we’ll point you toward helpful tools and resources so you can keep learning, keep improving, and keep building digital experiences that truly welcome everyone.

The Fundamentals of Accessible UX

Accessibility is about designing for how people actually live and interact—not just for some perfect, idealized user. It’s about making space for the full range of human experiences, because that’s who’s showing up at your digital doorstep. And when you zoom out, the impact becomes clear: over 16% of the world’s population lives with a significant disability. When you keep that in mind from the start, the end result isn’t just more inclusive—it’s better for everyone.

And yes, the benefits are very real:
- You’ll reach more people
- Build stronger trust with your audience
- Lower your legal risks
- And create a smoother, more enjoyable experience across the board
But to get there, it helps to understand how accessibility and usability work together.

Accessibility vs. Usability

Accessibility and usability go hand in hand, but they aren’t quite the same thing. Accessibility means people can use your site—regardless of ability. Usability means they want to. It’s the difference between building a ramp and making sure the door is easy to open once you get there. When both are in place, you’re not just meeting a requirement—you’re delivering a great experience.

So how do you do that in practice?

In the sections ahead, we’ll walk through four key areas to focus on: visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive accessibility. Each one connects to the WCAG POUR principles—Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust—which are all about making digital content work well for as many people as possible, in as many ways as possible.

Visual Accessibility: Making Your Content Clear

When it comes to digital experiences, what people see—and how clearly they see it—matters. Strong accessible design means your content shows up well for everyone, no matter their vision or viewing environment. Whether someone’s using a screen reader, navigating with magnification tools, or just scrolling on their phone in the sun, your design choices can make a big difference.

Color and Contrast: Give Every Element a Voice

Color does a lot of heavy lifting in design, but it shouldn’t have to carry meaning on its own. Good contrast helps your content stand out and stay legible in all kinds of settings—from dark rooms to bright sidewalks. Use tools like WebAIM Contrast Checker to spot trouble areas before your users do.

Instead of just using red to show an error, pair it with an icon and a message that says what’s going on. That way, everyone—regardless of how they see color—gets the same info. And skip putting important text over photos or gradients. It might look nice, but it often makes things harder to read.

Try this: View your layout in grayscale. Can you still tell what’s what? If not, it’s time for a few tweaks.

Text and Typography: Keep It Clean and Comfortable

Fonts don’t just carry words—they carry the experience. Stick with simple, sans-serif fonts like Arial, Helvetica, or Open Sans. They’re easier to read and less likely to cause eye strain. Avoid fancy decorative fonts for body copy, and go with a minimum of 16px for body text. Line height should feel breathable—somewhere around 1.4 to 1.6x the font size—so your words don’t feel cramped.

And remember, people should be able to zoom in up to 200% without a loss of content. That’s not just a nice-to-have—it’s part of WCAG’s requirements.

Quick test: Zoom way in and try navigating with just a keyboard. Everything should still be readable, usable, and scroll in one direction.

Images and Media: Describe What Matters

Images aren’t just decoration—they carry meaning, emotion, and context. But that only works if everyone gets to experience them. That’s where alt text comes in. For each image, ask yourself: What is this doing here?

If it’s decorative, mark it with empty alt text (alt=""). If it’s showing something important—like a process, a chart, or an instruction—give it a short, clear description. And for complex visuals? Offer a more detailed breakdown nearby or link out to a longer description.

Heads up: Avoid embedding key text inside images. If you have to, make sure that the same info is also available as live text on the page.

Links and Structure: Build a Clear Path

“Click here” doesn’t cut it anymore. Link text should be clear and specific—like “Download the full pricing guide” or “View shipping options.” This gives screen reader users meaningful context and helps anyone scanning your page understand exactly where a link will take them.

But clarity isn’t just about links—it’s about how the entire page is structured.

Use semantic headings (H1 to H6) to create a strong, logical outline. That helps screen reader users and keyboard navigators alike. And if you want to go a step further, use ARIA landmarks (like role= "main" or role= "navigation") to give even more structure to your layout.

Try this: Tab through your site or listen to it with a screen reader. If the page sounds confusing out loud, it probably reads that way too.

Auditory Accessibility: Sound That Speaks to Everyone

Audio can bring depth to your content—but only if it’s accessible. Make sure all multimedia includes captions or transcripts. This isn’t just about supporting users who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing—it’s about meeting people where they are: whether they’re in a crowded café, a quiet office, or scrolling with the sound off.

Captions should be accurate, well-timed, and include important background sounds like [music] or [laughter] when they add meaning. Bonus points if you also let users control playback speed, jump to specific moments, or pause when needed.

Skip the surprise: Don’t autoplay audio or video. And if it starts automatically, make sure there’s an easy-to-find pause or mute button.

If your design relies on voice commands, always offer another way to engage—like buttons, text input, or keyboard shortcuts. Voice should be an option, not a barrier.

Motor Accessibility: Let Everyone Navigate Their Way

Not everyone uses a mouse. For some users, navigating your site with a keyboard—or assistive tools like switch controls—is their primary method. That’s why motor accessibility is so important.

Your site should be fully usable with just a keyboard. That means:
- A logical tab order that follows the flow of the page
- Visible focus styles that clearly show where the user is
- Accessible modals that keep focus inside until they’re closed
- A skip link to let users jump past repeated content
Touch targets need to be big enough—at least 44px by 44px—and spaced well so people don’t hit the wrong button by accident. And don’t rely on hover-only tooltips. Make sure the same info shows up when elements get keyboard focus or a tap.

Test it out: Try using your site with only the keyboard. You’ll quickly spot any dead ends or frustrating traps.

Cognitive Accessibility: Make It Clear, Make It Work

Cognitive accessibility is about reducing mental strain. It’s for users who may be neurodivergent, have memory or learning differences, or just want a simpler, calmer experience (which, honestly, is all of us sometimes).

Consistency is key. Stick with familiar UI patterns and avoid switching up layouts too often. Too many options on one page? That can be overwhelming. Break things down. Keep it focused.

Tips that go a long way:
- Use plain, conversational language
- Break content into bite-size chunks
- Add helper text or examples near form fields
- Use bullet points and clear headers to help users scan
Avoid flashy carousels, blinking elements, or countdown timers that can’t be paused. If a timer is necessary—say for a session timeout—give users a heads-up and a way to extend their time.

Pro move: Offer a simplified or “reading mode” view for content-heavy pages. It can make a big difference in comprehension and comfort. These types of accessible design choices often benefit all users, not just those with cognitive disabilities.

Accessible Design Checklist

Keep this quick-reference checklist close at hand:

▪ Strong color contrast (4.5:1 minimum)

▪ No reliance on color alone for important information

▪ Legible, scalable fonts and adequate spacing

▪ Descriptive alt text for images

▪ Clear, descriptive link text

▪ Proper heading structure (H1–H6)

▪ Keyboard navigable with logical tab order

▪ Captions and transcripts for all multimedia

▪ Accessible media playback controls

▪ Large, spaced interactive elements

▪ Consistent layout and navigation

▪ Plain language instructions

▪ Flexible time limits for tasks and forms

Accessible Design Never Clocks Out

You’re already doing the work—asking better questions, designing more thoughtfully, and looking at your site through more than one lens. That’s what leads to lasting change.

There’s no final destination when it comes to accessible design. But every shift in your design process—every adjustment, every decision made with someone else’s experience in mind—moves the web in the right direction.

And if you ever want backup or a fresh set of eyes, 216digital is here to help. We offer accessibility briefings to give you clarity, confidence, and a plan to move forward.
Greg McNeil

July 24, 2025

How-to Guides

Accessibility, Accessible Design, Graphic Designer, How-to, inclusive desgin, UX, WCAG, Web Accessibility, Web Accessible Design
How to Design Accessible Icons that Users Love
Icons are everywhere—on mobile apps, websites, dashboards, and devices. They’re small, but they do big things. Icons help us find a menu, delete a file, or save something for later. Designers love them for good reason: they’re stylish, space-saving, and often universal. But here’s the question—are they really accessible to everyone?

It’s easy to focus on how icons look, but what about how they function for people using screen readers, people with low vision, or anyone who relies on keyboard navigation? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and challenges of using icons, the common accessibility mistakes, and the steps designers and developers can take to create accessible icons that improve user experience without sacrificing style.

Why Icons Matter (Beyond Aesthetics)

Well-designed icons help users make sense of content faster. According to research aligned with WCAG guidance, familiar icons can support users with reading or cognitive challenges by serving as helpful visual cues. A simple “trash can” icon can quickly signal delete. A “magnifying glass” screams search. When paired with labels, these accessible icons create a faster and clearer experience for all users.

Saving Space on Smaller Screens

Icons also shine when space is tight—especially on mobile. Instead of cramming menus or actions into text links, icons can simplify the interface and reduce visual clutter. When used thoughtfully, accessible icons help you keep things clean while making the site easier to use.

Common Accessibility Challenges with Icons

Ambiguity: One Icon, Many Meanings

Icons aren’t always as clear as we think. A heart icon might mean “like,” “save,” or “favorite.” Without proper labeling, users may misinterpret its purpose. WCAG requires that all non-text elements, including icons, have text alternatives that clearly explain what they do. Accessible icons must carry meaning that’s clear—both visually and programmatically.

Decorative Icons That Get in the Way

Not every icon needs to be “read.” Some are purely decorative—like flourishes in a logo or background design. But if these aren’t properly hidden from screen readers, they add clutter and confusion. WCAG recommends using aria-hidden= "true" or similar methods to hide decorative icons. That way, screen reader users don’t have to sift through unnecessary details.

Size, Contrast, and Clickability

Icons that are too small or faint are hard to see or click—especially for users with motor or vision challenges. WCAG suggests a touch target size of at least 44×44 pixels. Icons should also meet contrast guidelines (at least a 3:1 ratio against the background). And if someone’s using a keyboard to navigate, your icons must have clear focus indicators and be easy to tab to.

Best Practices for Creating Accessible Icons

1. Label Every Interactive Icon

Icons that do something—like opening a menu or submitting a form—need a clear label. You can add a visible text label, a hidden <span> for screen readers, or an aria-label attribute. For example:
```
<button aria-label= "Open menu">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24" role="img">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
This makes sure your accessible icons work for both sighted and non-sighted users.

2. Hide Decorative Icons Properly

If an icon doesn’t add meaning, it shouldn’t be read by assistive technology. Use:
```
<span aria-hidden="true">
  <svg></svg>
</span>
```
Or:
```
<svg role="presentation"></svg>
```
This keeps screen reader output clean and focused on relevant content.

3. Pay Attention to Size, Contrast, and Focus

Accessible icons should be big enough to click easily and bold enough to see. Stick to WCAG’s minimum target size of 44×44 px. Use color contrast of at least 3:1 for non-text icons. And don’t forget to add a visible focus style for keyboard users—like a border or shadow:
```
button:focus {
  outline: 2px solid #000;
  outline-offset: 2px;
}
```
4. Stay Consistent

Use the same icon for the same action across your site. If a magnifying glass opens search in one place, don’t use it for zoom somewhere else. Consistency helps users feel confident in what each icon means—and that’s what accessible icons are all about.

5. Avoid Icon Fonts and Emojis

While they may seem handy, icon fonts can confuse screen readers. Emojis can also be read out in unexpected ways. It’s safer and more predictable to use SVG icons with proper labels.

6. Test in the Real World

Use tools like Lighthouse, or WAVE to catch basic issues. Then test manually: try navigating with a keyboard, check screen reader output, and validate that your icons have the right labels and focus states. Real-world testing is essential to making sure your accessible icons actually work.

A Closer Look: Two Icon Examples

The Right Way to Do a Menu Icon

Let’s say you’re building a mobile menu. Instead of just throwing in a hamburger icon, here’s how to make it accessible:
```
<button aria-label= "Open menu">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
With proper labeling, contrast, sizing, and keyboard focus styles, this is a perfect example of accessible icons done right.

Clarifying a Heart Icon

Got a heart icon to save a product? Don’t leave users guessing. Add supporting text:
```
<button aria-label= "Save to favorites">
  <svg aria-hidden="true" width="24" height="24">
    
  </svg>
</button>
```
This helps screen readers speak the correct action and helps all users understand what it does.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Icon Accessibility

Think Global

Icons don’t always mean the same thing across cultures. Something that makes sense in the U.S. may not be clear in Japan or Brazil. When designing accessible icons, test with a global audience if your site serves one.

Customize and Personalize

If you’re creating custom icons for your brand, take extra care with labeling and testing. Better yet, offer users the ability to switch between icons, text, or both—especially for key actions. It’s all about giving people choices that fit their needs.

Final Thoughts: Make Icons That Include Everyone

Icons are powerful little tools. They help us move faster, understand more, and make the web a little smoother. But for them to work for everyone, they need to be designed with care.

That means using accessible icons that have clear labels, hiding decorative ones, following size and contrast rules, being consistent, and testing thoroughly. These steps don’t take away from good design—they enhance it.

At 216digital, we work with design and development teams to review their UI patterns and create accessible experiences—icons included. If you’re ready to take the next step in making your digital spaces more inclusive, let’s talk. Schedule your ADA accessibility briefing today and let us help you turn thoughtful design into inclusive action.
Greg McNeil

June 26, 2025

How-to Guides

Accessibility, Accessible Design, ADA Compliance, Graphic Designer, How-to, Website Accessibility
What is Inclusive Design?
These days, people rely on the internet for just about everything—shopping, learning, connecting with others, and more. That is why it is so important for websites to be easy to use for everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Inclusive design ensures that digital spaces are welcoming and accessible to all, whether someone has a vision or hearing impairment, limited mobility, speaks a different language, or simply is not tech-savvy.

When businesses overlook accessibility, they risk shutting out entire groups of potential customers. So what exactly is inclusive design, and how can you make it a priority for your business? Let’s break it down.

What’s Inclusive Design and Why Does It Matter?

Most of us take certain web features for granted, like being able to click a button or read text on a screen. But imagine if someone has trouble seeing small letters or cannot operate a mouse. A website that is hard to use may prevent them from completing a simple task, such as filling out a form or finding important information. Inclusive design solves these problems by considering everyone’s needs from the start.

When we practice inclusive design, we do more than just check a box for accessibility. We build sites that help people with different backgrounds and abilities feel welcome. This approach lets businesses reach a larger audience and gives more people the chance to use digital tools. In the end, everyone benefits.

Key Principles of Inclusive Design

Inclusive design follows a few core principles to ensure websites and digital experiences work for the widest range of users. These principles help designers create sites that are flexible, clear, and easy to navigate for everyone.

1. Flexibility: Adapting to Different Needs

Flexibility is one of the most important principles of inclusive design. Websites should adapt to different user needs, devices, and environments. Not everyone interacts with a website in the same way, so design elements must be versatile.

For example, someone browsing on a smartphone may need larger buttons or a simpler layout to tap easily. A person using a screen reader may require properly labeled content so their assistive device can read text and links in a logical order. A website offering multiple ways to interact—such as voice commands, keyboard shortcuts, or touchscreen options—ensures users can engage with it in the way that suits them best.

2. Clarity: Making Information Easy to Read and Understand

Clarity is another core principle of inclusive design. If a website’s content is difficult to read or understand, it excludes many users. Sites should be simple, direct, and easy to follow.

Some ways to improve clarity include:
- Using plain language instead of technical jargon
- Writing short paragraphs and using bullet points to break up content
- Adding clear headings and subheadings to guide readers
- Avoiding long, complex sentences
These strategies benefit people with cognitive disabilities, those who speak English as a second language, and anyone who is quickly skimming for key information.

3. Consistency: Creating a Predictable Experience

Consistency is a key part of inclusive design because a predictable, structured website helps all users navigate smoothly. If menus, buttons, and links work the same way across different pages, visitors can find what they need without confusion.

For instance:
- Navigation menus should stay in the same place on every page
- Buttons and links should have clear labels describing their purpose
- Form fields should follow the same format throughout the site
Consistency is especially important for people using assistive technologies like screen readers, as it helps them understand and interact with a website more efficiently. It also benefits users who rely on keyboard navigation or voice commands.

Examples of Inclusive Design in Practice

A good example of inclusive design is seen on social media platforms that offer closed captioning for videos. This allows people who cannot hear—or those who do not want to disturb others—to follow along. News websites that highlight key text or break up content into simpler chunks also practice inclusive design: by using plain language and proper formatting, they make it easier for a broad audience to consume information.

Meanwhile, many e-commerce sites let shoppers filter products by color, size, or shape, helping those with specific needs. A person with color blindness might benefit from color labels spelled out in text, instead of relying on swatches alone, while someone with shaky hands might need larger buttons to click. These small adjustments illustrate how inclusive design can shape the online world to welcome everyone rather than turn people away.

Benefits of Inclusive Design

Embracing inclusive design does more than improve accessibility—it benefits businesses, organizations, and users alike. When websites accommodate all people, they become more effective, user-friendly, and legally compliant. Below are some of the biggest advantages of adopting inclusive design.

1. Reaching a Bigger Audience

One of the greatest benefits of inclusive design is how it expands a website’s reach. By being accessible to more people, businesses can connect with a larger and more diverse audience.

Many users rely on assistive technology or need specific design accommodations, including:
- People with visual impairments who use screen readers
- Users with hearing impairments who rely on captions and transcripts
- Individuals with mobility challenges who navigate via keyboard controls or voice commands
- People with cognitive differences who need clear, structured content
When websites are built for these groups, businesses and organizations can serve more customers and gain a competitive edge.

2. Improving User Experience for Everyone

A well-designed, inclusive website helps not just users with disabilities but all visitors. Clear text, logical navigation, and flexible layouts make websites easier for everyone to use.

For example:
- Captions on videos help users in noisy environments who cannot turn on the sound
- Readable fonts and high-contrast text improve legibility for all users, not just those with visual impairments
- Mobile-friendly designs ensure accessibility for people browsing on smartphones, tablets, and other devices
By prioritizing inclusive design, businesses create digital spaces that are both efficient and enjoyable for every user.

3. Staying Legally Compliant

Many countries have laws that require websites to be accessible. In the U.S., the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) set legal standards for digital accessibility. Failure to comply can lead to lawsuits, fines, and damage to a brand’s reputation. In 2024 alone, more than 4,000 websites were sued for not meeting accessibility requirements, highlighting the serious risks of ignoring inclusive design.

Businesses that do not meet these standards may face legal action from advocacy groups or individuals. Ensuring compliance from the start helps companies avoid these challenges while showing a commitment to equal access.

Simple Steps to Get Started

Inclusive design principles become easier to apply when you follow a few basic steps:
- Plan Early
- Include accessibility and usability in the early stages of your web project. Think about how users with diverse needs will interact with each part of your site.
- Use Clear Language
- Write in short sentences and simple words. This benefits people who speak English as a second language or have reading difficulties.
- Focus on Layout
- Organize your page in a logical way. Use headings, subheadings, and clear labels. This makes it easier for screen readers to process content.
- Color Contrast Matters
- Ensure your text and backgrounds have enough contrast. Free online tools like WebAIM’s Contrast Checker can help you check color contrast levels.
- Provide Text Alternatives
- Add captions to videos and alternative text for images. This helps people who cannot see the screen or hear the audio.
- Test with Real Users
- Set aside time to watch real users test your site. This is one of the most effective ways to find out what works and what does not.
Tools and Techniques

Several tools and techniques can help you practice inclusive design. Many free online checkers let you test color contrast, readability, and overall accessibility. Browser extensions can point out areas of your site that need attention. You can also try using a screen reader—like NVDA, VoiceOver on a Mac or Narrator on Windows—to experience your website as someone with vision impairments might.

If you apply inclusive design effectively, consider adding features such as keyboard navigation, enabling users to move around your site with arrow keys or the Tab key instead of a mouse. Another useful practice is to highlight the selected element on screen, helping people see which button or link they are about to activate.

Conclusion

Inclusive design is not just a best practice—it is a necessary approach for creating digital experiences that work for everyone. Websites that prioritize inclusive design are more accessible, easier to navigate, and more effective at reaching diverse audiences. By focusing on accessibility from the outset, businesses can avoid costly redesigns, improve user engagement, and ensure legal compliance.

At 216digital, we understand the importance of inclusive design and the role it plays in establishing a successful online presence. Our team specializes in accessibility audits, website design, and ongoing compliance monitoring to help businesses meet the highest accessibility standards. Ensuring your website is accessible is not just about checking a legal box—it is about creating a better online experience for everyone. Contact 216digital today to make sure your website is designed for all users.
Greg McNeil

March 5, 2025

How-to Guides, Web Design & Development

Accessible Design, Graphic Designer, inclusive desgin, Web Accessible Design
Play Your Part: Role-Based Advice for Web Accessibility

When you first dive into web accessibility, it’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed—there are so many things to consider. But making sure your website works for everyone isn’t just a one-time fix; it’s a group effort that involves every role on your team. Developers, designers, content creators, marketers, and website owners all contribute their own strengths and insights. When everyone’s efforts line up, you create a smooth, inclusive experience for all your users.

This guide is for teams who are already working on—or are fully committed to—improving their websites. It’s packed with practical, role-specific tips to help you approach accessibility in a way that’s both strategic and effective. Whether you’re refining your code, fine-tuning your visuals, crafting inclusive content, or ensuring your brand message is accessible, you’ll find helpful, targeted advice for your particular responsibilities. Together, these steps ensure your site meets the needs of every user while staying on top of WCAG compliance. Let’s jump in and see how each role plays a part in building a more accessible web.

Developers: Building the Accessible Foundation

Developers form the core of any website—they’re the ones who take an idea and turn it into a working reality. When it comes to WCAG compliance, the quality of your code truly matters. By following accessibility best practices from the get-go, you help guarantee that everyone can use your site, right from the start.

Practical Tips for Developers

Semantic HTML and Proper Structure

Use semantic HTML elements like <header>, <nav>, <main>, and <footer> to support screen readers and other assistive tech. Keep headings and landmarks organized, so users can navigate your site with ease.

Keyboard Navigation

Make sure all interactive elements—buttons, links, and form fields—work smoothly using just a keyboard. This isn’t just about meeting standards; it’s also a big help to people with motor impairments who can’t rely on a mouse.

ARIA Attributes

ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes can add valuable context, but use them wisely. Overdoing it can confuse rather than help.

Robust Error Handling

Provide clear, accessible error messages and confirmations for form submissions. When users understand what went wrong and how to fix it, they’re more likely to stay engaged.

By building accessibility directly into your code, you set a strong foundation for WCAG compliance and create a reliable platform that benefits every other role on your team.

Graphic Designers: Creating Inclusive Visuals

Graphic designers can help shape accessibility by making sure the website’s visual elements are both attractive and functional. You don’t have to sacrifice creativity for inclusivity—instead, design with everyone’s needs in mind.

Practical Tips for Graphic Designers

Color Contrast

Ensure there’s enough contrast between text and background elements. Check your color choices against WCAG guidelines so people with low vision or color blindness can still see everything clearly.

Scalable Designs

Plan for responsive and scalable design. Users who rely on screen magnification should still see a layout that’s visually appealing and makes sense.

Accessible Icons and Imagery

Give icons and images proper alt text, and avoid using color alone to convey meaning. This helps users who depend on screen readers understand your site’s visuals.

Consistent Design Patterns

Reusable design elements and predictable navigation make it easier for everyone, including those with disabilities, to find their way around.

By focusing on inclusive visuals, you ensure the site looks great and works smoothly—even for those using assistive technologies—moving you one step closer to WCAG compliance.

Content Creators: Writing for All Audiences

Your words matter. As a content creator, it’s your job to make sure the text on your website is clear, easy to understand, and accessible to everyone. Inclusive content goes beyond grammar and style; it also means structuring your writing to support people with different abilities.

Practical Tips for Content Creators

Plain Language

Keep your language simple and direct. Steer clear of jargon or overly complex sentences so users of all backgrounds and reading levels can follow along.

Heading Hierarchies and Lists

Break content into logical sections with headings, bullet points, and numbered lists. Many users rely on these elements to “jump” between sections and navigate quickly.

Descriptive Links

Swap out vague phrases like “click here” for links that clearly describe the destination. This small change can make a huge difference in accessibility.

Closed Captions and Transcripts

For videos and podcasts, always provide captions and transcripts. This ensures that users who are deaf or hard of hearing don’t miss out on any information.

By considering everyone’s needs when writing content, you help make your site more engaging, accessible, and in line with WCAG standards.

Marketers: Promoting Accessibility as a Brand Value

Marketers bridge the gap between the company and its audience. When you emphasize accessibility in your messaging, you’re not just showing you meet the guidelines—you’re proving you care. Highlighting your commitment to WCAG compliance can foster trust, build loyalty, and boost your brand’s reputation.

Practical Tips for Marketers

Inclusive Messaging

Talk openly about your brand’s dedication to accessibility. Use language that’s positive, empathetic, and respectful, making it clear that you value inclusivity.

Transparent Policies

Publish your accessibility statements and share your ongoing efforts. This honesty reassures people with disabilities and shows your brand is serious about doing the right thing.

Social Media and Email Marketing

Ensure your emails, ads, and social posts are accessible, too. Add alt text to images, use clear language, and include descriptive hashtags so everyone can participate.

Continuous Feedback

Invite users to share their thoughts on your site’s accessibility. By listening and improving, you show that your commitment to WCAG compliance isn’t just talk.

When marketers celebrate their brand’s accessibility journey, they create a positive narrative that resonates with a wide, diverse audience and strengthens brand loyalty.

Website Owners: Setting the Vision and Investing in Ongoing Compliance

As a website owner, you’re the one steering the ship in terms of resources, priorities, and long-term strategy. Achieving WCAG compliance isn’t something you do once and forget—it’s a continuous process. Owners need to keep accessibility front and center, provide the right tools, and foster a culture that values inclusive design.

Practical Tips for Website Owners

Leadership and Accountability

Make accessibility a non-negotiable core value. By setting clear expectations and holding everyone accountable, you empower each team member to do their part.

Budget for Accessibility

Invest in accessibility tools, auditing services, and training. Recognize that these efforts aren’t just expenses—they add value, protect you from legal risks, and improve user experience.

Regular Audits and Updates

Accessibility changes over time. Stay on top of it by revisiting your site regularly and making improvements as standards and user needs evolve.

Team Training

Tap into resources like 216digital’s web accessibility training to give your team the skills they need. By training developers, designers, content creators, and marketers, you ensure everyone’s working together toward WCAG compliance.

By providing clear leadership and long-term support, you set the stage for ongoing success. Accessibility becomes everyone’s priority, not just another item on a checklist.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

The journey to WCAG compliance isn’t a straight line—it’s a continuous loop of learning, adapting, and improving. When each person on your team understands their unique role and how it fits into the bigger picture, the result is a cohesive, user-friendly experience that truly works for everyone.

This is where a comprehensive training resource like the one from 216digital comes in handy. By investing in accessibility training that’s tailored to each role, you make sure every team member feels confident and supported. Developers learn best practices for semantic code, designers refine their approach to inclusive visuals, content creators craft language everyone can understand, and marketers become champions of accessibility. As a website owner, you can rest easy knowing your entire team is dedicated to meeting and maintaining WCAG compliance.

Remember, accessibility isn’t a final destination—it’s an ongoing journey. Working together and following these role-specific tips will help you build sites that aren’t just legally compliant, but genuinely welcoming to every visitor. This approach enhances trust, expands your audience, and reinforces your brand’s good name.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule an ADA briefing with 216digital through the contact form below. Let’s join forces to create a web experience that’s truly inclusive for all.

Greg McNeil

December 19, 2024

WCAG Compliance

Accessibility, ADA Compliance, Graphic Designer, Marketer, Web Accessibility, web developers, Website Accessibility

UX in Mind: Your Simple Guide to Accessible Design

The Fundamentals of Accessible UX

Accessibility vs. Usability

Visual Accessibility: Making Your Content Clear

Color and Contrast: Give Every Element a Voice

Text and Typography: Keep It Clean and Comfortable

Images and Media: Describe What Matters

Links and Structure: Build a Clear Path

Auditory Accessibility: Sound That Speaks to Everyone

Motor Accessibility: Let Everyone Navigate Their Way

Cognitive Accessibility: Make It Clear, Make It Work

Accessible Design Checklist

Accessible Design Never Clocks Out

How to Design Accessible Icons that Users Love

Why Icons Matter (Beyond Aesthetics)

Saving Space on Smaller Screens

Common Accessibility Challenges with Icons

Ambiguity: One Icon, Many Meanings

Decorative Icons That Get in the Way

Size, Contrast, and Clickability

Best Practices for Creating Accessible Icons

1. Label Every Interactive Icon

2. Hide Decorative Icons Properly

3. Pay Attention to Size, Contrast, and Focus

4. Stay Consistent

5. Avoid Icon Fonts and Emojis

6. Test in the Real World

A Closer Look: Two Icon Examples

The Right Way to Do a Menu Icon

Clarifying a Heart Icon

Looking Ahead: The Future of Icon Accessibility

Think Global

Customize and Personalize

Final Thoughts: Make Icons That Include Everyone

What is Inclusive Design?

What’s Inclusive Design and Why Does It Matter?

Key Principles of Inclusive Design

1. Flexibility: Adapting to Different Needs

2. Clarity: Making Information Easy to Read and Understand

3. Consistency: Creating a Predictable Experience

Examples of Inclusive Design in Practice

Benefits of Inclusive Design

1. Reaching a Bigger Audience

2. Improving User Experience for Everyone

3. Staying Legally Compliant

Simple Steps to Get Started

Tools and Techniques

Conclusion

Play Your Part: Role-Based Advice for Web Accessibility

Developers: Building the Accessible Foundation

Practical Tips for Developers

Semantic HTML and Proper Structure

Keyboard Navigation

ARIA Attributes

Robust Error Handling

Graphic Designers: Creating Inclusive Visuals

Practical Tips for Graphic Designers

Color Contrast

Scalable Designs

Accessible Icons and Imagery

Consistent Design Patterns

Content Creators: Writing for All Audiences

Practical Tips for Content Creators

Plain Language

Heading Hierarchies and Lists

Descriptive Links

Closed Captions and Transcripts

Marketers: Promoting Accessibility as a Brand Value

Practical Tips for Marketers

Inclusive Messaging

Transparent Policies

Social Media and Email Marketing

Continuous Feedback

Website Owners: Setting the Vision and Investing in Ongoing Compliance

Practical Tips for Website Owners

Leadership and Accountability

Budget for Accessibility

Regular Audits and Updates

Team Training

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement