Many websites use a variety of design elements that cause problems for those who have difficulty viewing them because of screen readers and other adaptive technology. There are many steps to take in order to ensure your website is accessible to all users. Many companies today use online tools like accessiBe for their website to comply with ADA regulations. In this article, we will go through a list of ten ways to improve ADA website accessibility on your site.

1. Use of White Text on Dark Backgrounds is Prohibited

One of the most common web design mistakes made by many is to use white on black text. This design technique is commonly used in order to make text more visible for individuals with low vision impairment. Unfortunately, it makes the text invisible for those using screen readers.

2. Always Use Text Equivalents For Images With ALT Attributes

Images should always have an alternative text description. Text equivalents should be informative and helpful to those who can’t see the image, rather than a long string of URL’s.

3. Always Use Headings to Organize Your Content

Screen readers use heading tags to organize your content into structure and hierarchy. By marking up your text appropriately, you make it much easier for those who use assistive technologies to access and understand your content.

4. Focus Visible for Screen Reader Navigation

Visible focus is a visual cue that tells screen readers where on the website they are located. Without focus, screen readers will read all of your information as if it is on one long continuous page.

5. Ensure Colors are Bright Enough For Visibility

Color can be a great way to highlight important content, but too many colors on a page can make it difficult for those who have color blindness or low vision impairment.

6. Create a Link for Each Form Field

When using the required tag, it is important to have a link that will take users back to the top of the form after entering their information. It is also important to utilize labels for each text box so screen readers can announce what type of data should be input into each field.

7. Keep Forms as Short as Possible

Long forms can be problematic for those with motor disabilities. It is a good idea to limit the number of fields as much as possible. Do not use required tags on fields that do not require it. You should also make sure you have a submit button for the form to make it easy for users to send their information in one step.

8. Ensure Scrolling is Easy and Smooth

You want your website visitors to be able to scroll up and down your pages with ease. If it is difficult for them to do so, they will tend to get frustrated and leave your website.

9. Do Not Ignore Links Inside Frames

If you have a frame on your page, ensure links inside the frame are accessible in order to avoid confusion or additional work for users trying to access them.

10. Make Your CTA Buttons Easy To Read and Click

Make sure your call to action buttons stand out from the rest of the content on the page. They should be easy to read and clickable with a mouse or finger (if you are using a touch screen) since many users will not want to navigate through your entire website in order to locate the contact or subscription information.