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Accessibility

Accessibility (a11y abbreviated) means designing products, websites, and digital tools so that everyone can use them — including people with disabilities such as vision, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments. The goal is to remove barriers and ensure equal access to information, communication, and technology. The WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) are built around four key principles known by the acronym POUR:

Perceivable​

Information and user interface components must be presented in ways that users can perceive.

Users need to be able to see, hear, or otherwise sense the content.

Best practice​

  • Provide alt text for images.
  • Ensure captions for videos.
  • Use good color contrast between text and background.

If users can’t perceive the content, they can’t use it.

Operable​

User interface components and navigation must be operable — users should be able to interact with them.

Best practice​

  • Make sure all functionality can be accessed via a keyboard (not just a mouse).
  • Avoid content that flashes or moves too quickly.
  • Provide clear navigation and consistent controls.

If users can’t operate the interface, they can’t navigate or use your site.

Understandable​

Information and the operation of the user interface must be understandable.

Users should be able to comprehend both the content and how to use it.

Best practice​

  • Use clear language and simple instructions.
  • Ensure consistent layout and predictable behavior.
  • Provide helpful error messages and guidance.

If users can’t understand it, they can’t effectively engage with it.

Robust​

Content must be robust enough that it can be interpreted reliably by a wide range of user agents, including assistive technologies (like screen readers).

Best practice​

  • Use valid, semantic HTML.
  • Ensure ARIA roles and labels are correctly implemented.
  • Support current and future technologies.

If content isn’t robust, users relying on assistive tools may not be able to access it.

Resources​