Web Accessibility Checklist: Build Websites More People Can Use

Web accessibility means designing and building websites that more people can use, including people with visual, motor, hearing, cognitive, or temporary limitations. Accessibility is not only a compliance concern. It improves usability, code quality, and customer experience for everyone.

Use Semantic HTML

Semantic HTML gives structure and meaning to a page. Proper headings, buttons, links, labels, lists, and landmarks help assistive technologies understand the interface. Many accessibility problems start when clickable divs replace real buttons or visual headings do not match document structure.

Keyboard Navigation

Users should be able to navigate important website functions using a keyboard. Menus, forms, modals, dropdowns, and buttons should have visible focus states and logical tab order.

Accessibility Checklist

• Use one clear H1 per page
• Maintain proper heading hierarchy
• Add labels to form fields
• Provide alt text for meaningful images
• Ensure sufficient text contrast
• Make buttons and links descriptive
• Support keyboard navigation
• Avoid relying only on color to communicate meaning
• Provide captions or transcripts for important media

Forms Must Be Clear

Forms are a common accessibility failure point. Each field should have a label, required fields should be clear, errors should explain what went wrong, and success messages should be understandable. Form validation should not rely only on red borders.

Color and Contrast

Low contrast makes websites harder to read. Text, buttons, form fields, and important UI elements should have enough contrast against the background. This improves readability for all users, especially on mobile screens or in bright environments.

Accessible Components

Custom components such as modals, tabs, accordions, dropdowns, and sliders need careful keyboard and screen reader behavior. Using accessible component libraries or following established patterns reduces risk.

Testing Accessibility

• Keyboard-only navigation test
• Screen reader review for key workflows
• Automated accessibility scanning
• Color contrast checks
• Form error testing
• Mobile usability review
• Manual review of headings and landmarks

How Novilance Builds Accessible Websites

Novilance designs and develops websites with accessibility included from the start. We use semantic structure, accessible components, readable design, and practical testing to make digital experiences easier for more people to use.