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Editorial team

Inverness Design Studio

Improving Digital Accessibility: A Comprehensive Approach

In this article, we present a comprehensive guide on improving digital accessibility, with a focus on continuous accessibility practices. At The Inverness Design Studio, we firmly believe that accessibility should be a fundamental aspect of any digital experience. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can significantly enhance the accessibility of your website, thereby reaching a wider audience and providing an inclusive user experience.

There has never been a time in human history where the need for digital accessibility has been so relevant.

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Understanding Digital Accessibility

Digital accessibility refers to the practice of ensuring that digital content, such as websites, applications, and documents, can be accessed and used by individuals with disabilities. It involves removing barriers and providing alternative ways for people with disabilities to perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with digital content. By making your digital assets accessible, you enable everyone, regardless of their abilities, to engage with your content effectively.


The Importance of Digital Accessibility

  • Inclusivity: Digital accessibility promotes inclusivity by ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in the digital world. It empowers them to access information, communicate, and engage in online activities independently.
  • Legal Compliance: Many countries have enacted accessibility laws and regulations that require organisations to make their digital content accessible. Failure to comply with these laws may result in legal consequences and reputational damage.
  • Business Advantage: Investing in digital accessibility can give you a competitive edge. By catering to a broader range of users, including those with disabilities, you expand your potential customer base and improve customer loyalty.

Key Elements of Digital Accessibility

To effectively improve digital accessibility, it is essential to address the following key elements:


1. Website Structure and Design

  • A well-structured and thoughtfully designed website forms the foundation of digital accessibility. Consider the following guidelines:
  • Use semantic HTML markup to ensure proper document structure and facilitate assistive technologies in understanding the content.
  • Provide clear and concise headings that convey the hierarchical structure of your webpages.
  • Use descriptive alternative text (alt text) for images, enabling screen readers to convey visual information to users with visual impairments.
  • Ensure colour contrast between text and background elements is sufficient for individuals with visual impairments.

2. Keyboard Accessibility

  • Keyboard accessibility is crucial for individuals who cannot use a mouse or other pointing devices. Here are some essential considerations:
  • Ensure all interactive elements, such as links, buttons, and form fields, are accessible via keyboard navigation.
  • Provide visible focus indicators to help users identify which element has keyboard focus.
  • Avoid relying solely on mouse-based actions or gestures for critical functionality.