Did you know that millions of people around the world use the internet in different ways? Some people use screen readers because they are blind or have low vision. Others use keyboards instead of a mouse because of mobility challenges. Many people need websites to have clear text and good color contrast so they can read easily.
When websites don’t work for these users, they become impossible or frustrating to use. This is why web accessibility matters. It means making sure your website can be used by as many people as possible, no matter their abilities.
If you own or manage a website, it’s important to check — or audit — your site to see if it is accessible. This guide will help you get started.
What is an Accessibility Audit?
An accessibility audit is like a health check-up for your website. It helps you find out what is working well and what needs fixing so that people with disabilities can use your site.
Audits look at things like:
- Can someone use the site without a mouse?
- Can a screen reader describe images on the page?
- Are the colors easy to see?
- Is the text large enough and easy to read?
Once you find the problems, you can make changes to improve your site for everyone.
Why Should You Care About Accessibility?
There are many good reasons to care about web accessibility:
- It’s the right thing to do. Everyone should have equal access to information and services online.
- It helps your business. A website that works for everyone can bring in more customers. People will feel welcome and are more likely to return.
- It protects you from legal trouble. In many countries, including Canada and the United States, businesses can be fined or sued if their websites are not accessible.
How to Get Started With an Accessibility Audit
Don’t worry if this sounds overwhelming! You don’t need to be a tech expert to take the first steps. Here’s how you can begin.
Check for Alt Text on Images
Alt text is a short description of an image that screen readers can read out loud. It helps people who cannot see the image understand what is on the page.
- Go through your pages and check if each image has a helpful description. For example:
- Bad alt text: image1.jpg
- Good alt text: A smiling woman using a laptop at a coffee shop.
Try to Use Your Website Without a Mouse
Use only your keyboard (the tab, enter, arrow, and space keys) to move around your site.
Ask yourself:
- Can you reach every link and button?
- Can you fill out forms?
- Can you see where you are on the page?
If you can’t do these things, someone with mobility challenges probably can’t either.
Check Color Contrast
Good color contrast makes text easier to read. For example, light gray text on a white background is hard to see for many people.
Use a free tool like the WebAIM Contrast Checker (search for it online) to test your colors. Aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text.
Making your website accessible helps everyone, not just people with disabilities. It can improve your site’s design, make it easier to use on phones and tablets, and even help with search engine rankings.
By doing a basic accessibility audit, you’re taking the first step toward a better, fairer internet. And remember — you don’t have to do it all at once. Start today, and keep improving over time.