Accessibility in Websites: What It Is and Why It Matters

Let’s be real—accessibility probably isn’t the first thing you think about when designing a website. You’re thinking about colors, layout, vibe, maybe even conversions (as you should). But here’s the thing:

👉 If your website isn’t accessible, it’s not working for everyone.
And that means you're unintentionally excluding people—often without even realizing it.

Let’s fix that. Because accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s part of creating a business that’s inclusive, respectful, and user-friendly for all of your visitors.

What Does “Accessibility” Even Mean?

In web design, accessibility means that people of all abilities can navigate, read, and interact with your website.

This includes users who:

• Are blind or visually impaired (and use screen readers)

• Have motor impairments (and navigate by keyboard, not mouse)

• Are neurodivergent or easily overwhelmed by visuals

• Have hearing impairments (and rely on captions or transcripts)

Accessibility ensures that everyone can experience your brand, your content, and your offers—regardless of their ability, device, or browsing context.

Why Accessibility Should Be Non-Negotiable

• It’s the right thing to do
  Period. We shouldn’t build digital spaces that exclude people. If your brand values inclusivity, accessibility should be part of your design process.

• It protects your business legally
  In many countries (including the EU and US), inaccessible websites can face legal action under discrimination laws like ADA or EN 301 549.

• It improves SEO + usability for everyone
  Google favors accessible sites. And many best practices—like using proper heading structures and alt text—are also great for SEO.

• It expands your reach
  The more people who can interact with your site, the more potential clients, customers, and community members you reach.

Quick Accessibility Wins for Your Website

You don’t need to be a developer or build everything from scratch to improve accessibility. Here are some quick wins you can implement today:

✅ Use proper heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3...)
Don’t just bold text—structure your content so screen readers (and SEO) can follow.

✅ Add alt text to all images
Alt text = short, descriptive text that explains what’s in the image for users who can’t see it.

✅ Check your contrast ratios
Make sure text is readable against backgrounds. Light gray on white? Please no.

✅ Use real buttons and links—not just styled text
Clickable text should be marked up as a link or button for screen readers and keyboard navigation.

✅ Avoid autoplay videos or motion-heavy designs
Give users control over their experience (and avoid overwhelming neurodivergent users).

✅ Make sure your site works with keyboard-only navigation
Try tabbing through your site—can you access all the links, forms, and content?

How I Build Accessibility Into My Design Process

When I design websites, accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s built in from the start.

Whether I’m working on a brand site, a sales page, or a portfolio, I:

• Use semantic structure (good for SEO + screen readers)

• Choose fonts and sizes for easy readability

• Pay attention to color contrast and motion

• Add alt text and label forms correctly

• Test responsiveness and keyboard navigation

It’s not about perfection—it’s about intention.

Final Thoughts: Accessibility Is a Business Essential

Accessibility isn’t about making things “less pretty.” It’s about making sure everyone can interact with your work, your message, and your offers.

And honestly? A website that’s clear, intentional, and respectful of all users will always convert better, build more trust, and reflect your brand values in a deeper way.

If you’re not sure where to start—or need someone to design an accessible website from the ground up—you know where to find me. 💻✨