Digital accessibility is vital for every website. It ensures everyone, including those with disabilities, can access content easily. However, many websites still overlook accessibility, leading to poor user experiences and legal risks. Below, we discuss common mistakes and how to fix them.

1. Ignoring Proper Alt Text for Images

Alt text describes images for visually impaired users. Many websites skip this critical feature. Without alt text, screen readers cannot explain images to users.

Proper alt text should describe the image's content clearly. For example, "A smiling woman holding a laptop" is better than "image1.jpg." WP Tangerine recommends adding alt text to every image during WordPress Website Design to avoid accessibility issues.

2. Using Inaccessible Color Combinations

Color contrast plays a big role in readability. Low contrast makes it hard for visually impaired users to read text. Websites often use light text on light backgrounds or dark text on dark backgrounds.

Follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for proper contrast ratios. WP Tangerine, a leading WordPress Development Agency, ensures proper color contrasts in their designs. Always test your color combinations to enhance usability.

3. Neglecting Keyboard Navigation

Some users rely solely on keyboards to navigate. Websites often ignore this, making navigation difficult. Missing focus indicators, like highlights on active links, can confuse users.

WP Tangerine offers WordPress Services that prioritize keyboard-friendly navigation. Add clear focus indicators and test your site using only a keyboard to identify issues.

4. Failing to Provide Accessible Forms

Forms are critical for user interaction. However, many forms lack proper labels, instructions, or error messages. This creates frustration for users with disabilities.

Label each field clearly and provide helpful error messages. A trusted WordPress Consultant like WP Tangerine can optimize forms for accessibility. Accessible forms improve user experience for everyone.

5. Overlooking Descriptive Link Text

Links with vague text like "Click here" or "Learn more" confuse screen reader users. They need clear context to understand the link's purpose.

Use descriptive link text such as "Download our accessibility guide." WP Tangerine’s WordPress Support includes auditing links to ensure clarity. Avoid generic link text whenever possible.

6. Skipping Captions for Videos

Videos without captions exclude hearing-impaired users. Many websites fail to provide captions or transcripts for their video content.

Captions help everyone, including users in noisy environments. As a trusted WordPress Expert, WP Tangerine ensures videos include accurate captions. Always add captions or provide transcripts for multimedia content.

7. Not Testing for Screen Reader Compatibility

Screen readers are essential tools for visually impaired users. Websites often fail to test their compatibility with these tools. Broken layouts and confusing content structures are common problems.

Test your website with popular screen readers. WP Tangerine’s WordPress Development Agency services include screen reader testing. Proper testing ensures all users can access your site seamlessly.

8. Using Dynamic Content Without Accessibility Features

Dynamic content, like pop-ups and sliders, often lacks accessibility. Screen readers may miss these elements, confusing users.

Add ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes to dynamic content. WP Tangerine integrates these features during WordPress Website Design. This ensures all users can interact with dynamic elements effectively.

9. Overlooking Accessibility in Mobile Design

Mobile users with disabilities often face additional challenges. Websites may not adapt properly to small screens or touch gestures.

A responsive design is crucial for accessibility. WP Tangerine offers WordPress Services to optimize mobile designs for all users. Test your site on various devices to ensure usability.

10. Failing to Keep Accessibility Updated

Accessibility is an ongoing process. Websites often fail to update features as standards evolve. This results in outdated designs that exclude users.

Schedule regular accessibility audits. WP Tangerine, a reliable WordPress Consultant, can review your site for compliance. Staying updated ensures your website remains inclusive over time.

Conclusion

Digital accessibility is not optional. It is a necessity for every website. Avoiding these mistakes improves user experience and protects against legal risks.

WP Tangerine offers comprehensive WordPress Services to help you achieve full accessibility. Whether you need WordPress Support, WordPress Expert advice, or accessibility optimization, WP Tangerine is your trusted partner. Make your website accessible to everyone today!