Accessibility

 Accessibility is important in website design because it ensures that all users- including those with disabilities- can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with content. Making a site accessible not only complies with legal requirements (The ADA like we went over in class) but also improves usability for everyone, broadens your audience, and demonstrates inclusive design.

List of 10:

1. Use Semantic HTML
   Structure with proper HTML tags (<header>, <nav>, <main>, <article>, <footer>, etc.) so assistive technologies can interpret the content.

2. Provide Text Alternatives for All Non-Text Content
   Use descriptive alt attributes for images, and ensure captions or transcripts are available for videos and audio. These show when the images cannot load as well.

3. Ensure Sufficient Color Contrast
   Text should have enough contrast against the background to be readable by people with visual impairments or color blindness. Or have the option to change it.

4. Keyboard Navigation
   Ensure that all interactive elements (like links, buttons, forms, etc..) can be accessed and operated using a keyboard alone.

5. Responsive and Scalable Design
   Make your site usable across different devices/platforms and support zooming without breaking layout or hiding content.

6. Clear and Consistent Navigation
   Keep menus, headers, and page structures consistent so users can learn and navigate intuitively.

7. Use ARIA Landmarks and Roles Wisely
   Use ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) roles to provide additional context to screen readers, but avoid overuse or misuse.

8. Descriptive Link Text
   Avoid vague links like “click here.” Use link text that describes the destination or action (e.g., “Download the accessibility guide”).

9. Avoid Auto-Playing Media
   Auto-playing videos or sounds can disorient users- especially those using screen readers—and should be avoided or easily stopped.

10. Test with Real Users and Assistive Technologies
    Go beyond automated tools and include users with disabilities in your testing process to find issues that algorithms might miss.