Web accessibility

Given that I have 2 weeks left in my current job before I embark on a new adventure – as a web designer – I have been getting back up to date with the latest techniques, standards and usability issues. I have a long way to go but I’ve really enjoyed learning about what’s possible now with the newer browsers, XHTML, Ajax, etc. It’s been a while since I’ve done any UI work and thinks have changed for the better, I must say.

Anyway, I came across this article about making blogs accessible for the blind. It has some very clear points about how to make blogs, and any web page, for that matter more accessible for those who use screen-readers. A lot of the tips apply in other situations also – for example the user is browsing with a text-based browser (including on hand-held devices). There are sites out there that can perform (albeit limited) tests on the accessibility of your website for many situations, including colour-blind users. I will add some links to this site in future.

Remember: there’s no point in having a flashy, colourful site if half your audience can’t see or use it as you intended. 

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