This video covers website accessibility basics, explaining what separates an accessible website from one that creates problems for people with disabilities.
An accessible website works with assistive technology. Screen readers can interpret the page structure, read content in a logical order, and announce interactive elements like links, buttons, and form fields. Every image has a text alternative that conveys its meaning, and every video has captions.
Keyboard access is another core requirement. People who cannot use a mouse rely on the keyboard to move through a page. Every interactive element needs to be reachable and operable using the Tab key, arrow keys, and Enter or Space. A visible focus indicator shows which element is currently selected.
Clear structure matters as well. Headings follow a logical hierarchy so both sighted readers and screen reader users can scan and understand the layout. Form fields have associated labels. Error messages tell the user what went wrong and where.
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) define the technical criteria behind all of this. Most organizations target WCAG 2.1 AA conformance, which covers the majority of common accessibility requirements across text, media, navigation, and input.
Accessible design is not a separate version of a website. It is the same website built so that it works for everyone from the start.