Building Accessible Web Applications: A Developer's Guide

Accessibility is Not Optional

1 in 4 adults in the US has a disability. Building accessible web applications isn't just the right thing to do — it's often legally required and always good for business.

WCAG 2.2 Key Principles

1. Perceivable

• Provide text alternatives for images
• Add captions for video/audio content
• Ensure sufficient color contrast (4.5:1 minimum)

2. Operable

• All functionality available via keyboard
• No seizure-inducing content
• Provide enough time for interactions

3. Understandable

• Use clear, simple language
• Consistent navigation patterns
• Helpful error messages

4. Robust

• Valid HTML
• ARIA used correctly
• Works with assistive technologies

Practical ARIA Patterns

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Keyboard Navigation

Essential keyboard patterns:

• Tab/Shift+Tab: Navigate between focusable elements
• Enter/Space: Activate buttons and links
• Arrow keys: Navigate within components (tabs, menus)
• Escape: Close modals and dropdowns

Testing Tools

• axe DevTools — Browser extension for automated testing
• Lighthouse — Built-in accessibility audit
• NVDA — Free screen reader for Windows
• VoiceOver — Built-in screen reader on macOS/iOS

Conclusion

Accessibility benefits everyone. Start with semantic HTML, add ARIA where needed, test with keyboard and screen readers, and continuously improve. Every improvement matters.