Short definition

Web accessibility — designing and building websites so their content and features are usable by people with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities.

Also known as: digital accessibility, a11y.

Web accessibility means people can perceive, understand and operate your website, including when they use a keyboard, screen reader, magnification or an alternative input device. Many of the same improvements also help mobile users and people with temporary or situational limitations.

How does web accessibility work?

Semantic HTML provides structure, labels identify form controls and a visible focus indicator shows which element has keyboard focus. Sufficient color contrast, useful alternative text and clear error messages also matter. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide testable criteria, but usability still requires manual checks.

What does this mean for a small business?

An accessible site reaches more people and reduces drop-off in forms and navigation. Start with the design and component system because retrofitting accessibility later usually costs more. For a small business, logical heading structure, keyboard access, readable text and clear forms cover many high-impact basics.

What should you check for in web accessibility?

  • use native HTML elements instead of recreating controls with custom code and ARIA;
  • check that every feature works without a mouse;
  • write labels and error messages that identify the problem;
  • test zoom and color contrast, and use a screen reader on key pages;

How it relates to other website choices

Accessibility is part of UX and should be built into a design system. Responsive web design helps with magnification and different screens, but is not sufficient on its own.