Best Practices Designing for Accessibility 2023

Implementing accessibility practices in UX design requires a nuanced understanding of various accessibility standards, the ability to empathise with users with different abilities, and the technical skill to translate this understanding into design. This article aims to help proficient designers navigate these waters by outlining some of the best practices for designing for accessibility in 2023.

Understand and Follow WCAG 3.0 Guidelines

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are a set of guidelines developed to ensure websites are accessible to people with various disabilities. WCAG 3.0, the latest version as of 2023, takes a more holistic approach than its predecessor, focusing on a user-centered framework. Understanding and adhering to these guidelines is the first crucial step in designing accessible products.

To meet WCAG 3.0 guidelines, designers must ensure their designs are Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR principles). Designers can follow several advanced techniques to meet these principles, like providing text alternatives for non-text content, using adjustable timing, and implementing clear navigational mechanisms.

Designing For Disabilities 

Remember that disabilities can be permanent, temporary, or situational. Design for color blindness, low vision, deafness, motor disabilities, cognitive disabilities, and others, acknowledging the spectrum of user abilities. 

For example, use semantic HTML5 elements when designing websites to ensure screen readers can interpret the content effectively. Ensure that interactive components are large enough to be used by individuals with motor disabilities or those using assistive technologies.

Automated and Manual Accessibility Testing

Use automated tools to identify common accessibility issues in your design. Tools like Axe, WAVE, and Lighthouse can run a quick check on your design to flag potential issues related to color contrast, missing alt text, improper use of ARIA roles, and more.

Automated testing alone is not sufficient. Supplement it with manual testing to assess the accessibility of dynamic content and complex interactions that automated tools may miss. For example, manually tab through your website to ensure all interactive elements can be reached and operated using the keyboard alone.

Accessibility-First Approach

In 2023, the trend is shifting towards an "accessibility-first" design approach. Instead of adding accessibility features as an afterthought, integrate them at the start of your design process. This approach encourages you to think about accessibility challenges and solutions upfront, resulting in a more inclusive design.

Responsive and Adaptive Design

As designers, we should ensure our digital products can be used on various devices, from smartphones to tablets to desktop computers. Design for different viewport sizes, device orientations, and input methods. Prioritise adaptive design, which adjusts the UI based on the user's abilities and preferences. For example, offer the ability to switch to a high-contrast mode for visually impaired users or a text-to-speech function for users with reading difficulties.

Readability and Comprehension

When designing for accessibility, consider text readability and comprehension. Use simple and clear language. Ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, according to WCAG 3.0. Break content into smaller, manageable sections, and use bullets and headers to structure it. Avoid using text in images, which can't be read by screen readers.

Appropriate Colours and Contrast

Colour contrast is vital for users with low vision or colour blindness. Use high contrasting colours for text and background. Avoid using colour as the only visual means of conveying information. Include patterns or text labels, so colourblind users can interpret the information.

Design Focus Indicators

For keyboard users, including users with motor disabilities, focus indicators are vital for understanding where they are on a page. Ensure that your design includes highly visible focus indicators. Customise CSS to style these indicators so they integrate seamlessly into your design.

Skip Navigation Links

These links allow users to skip over repetitive content, like site navigation, to the main content. This can be beneficial for keyboard and screen reader users.

Avoid or Provide Alternatives for Motion

Animations can be distracting or even harmful to some users. Provide options to disable animations or offer a reduced motion version.

Forms for Accessibility

Ensure form inputs have descriptive labels. Group related form elements using fieldset and legend. Use appropriate input types and auto-suggest for form fields. Provide clear error messages and guidance for correction.

SUMARRY

Accessible design should be a top priority for all designers in 2023. As we continue to shape the digital landscape, it is our responsibility to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can use and benefit from the products we design. By understanding and implementing advanced accessibility practices, we can create inclusive experiences that are not only good for users but also beneficial for businesses. 

As the great designer and writer Cat Noone said, "Designing for inclusivity opens up our experiences and reflects how people adapt to the world around them."

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