Small Details, Big Differences: Better Websites with Micro Accessibility
When we think of website accessibility, we usually think of large-scale changes. Adding alternative text to visual content, designing keyboard navigable menus or adjusting color contrast are the cornerstones of accessibility efforts. But beyond these efforts, there are often overlooked micro-accessibility details that transform the user experience.
So, what is micro-accessibility? And why is it so important?
What is Micro Accessibility?
Micro-accessibility focuses on how small but effective elements on websites can improve accessibility. The ability of users to use a website effortlessly and with satisfaction can depend on these small details. For example, seemingly simple details such as setting auto-fill features correctly in form fields or making a “back” button easily accessible via keyboard can have a big impact on the user experience.
Overlooked Micro Details
Here are the small details that are often forgotten in accessibility:
1. Autofillability of Form Fields
Proper labeling of form fields on a website enables users to use the autofill feature provided by browsers. This is a great convenience, especially for users with limited motor skills.
2. Keyboard Navigability
Some users prefer to use a keyboard instead of a mouse. All interactive elements (buttons, menus, form fields) should be easily accessible via keyboard.
3. Careful Use of Contrast
For users with color blindness or low vision, high contrast alone is not enough. Color combinations that distract users or tire the eyes should also be avoided.
4. Visualization of Focus States
When a user navigates with the keyboard, it is important to show which element is in focus. This visual cue makes navigation easier and helps users find their way around.
5. Announcements and Dynamic Content Management
Dynamically changing content on the website (e.g. pop-ups or alerts) needs to be detectable by screen readers. This ensures that users do not miss important information.
Why is Micro Accessibility Important?
Micro-accessibility positively impacts both user experience and business performance:
- Reaching Wider Audiences: Small details provide a better experience to a wide range of users, such as people with disabilities and the elderly population.
- Increased User Loyalty: A smooth and accessible experience increases user loyalty to the site.
- SEO Improvement: Micro-accessibility improvements can improve metrics that search engines also evaluate.
Successful Micro Accessibility Examples
1. Airbnb
By using descriptive labels and user-friendly reminders in form fields, Airbnb increased both accessibility and conversion rates.
2. Google
Google's Search Console has made keyboard navigation easier and more user-friendly by clarifying focus states.
Tools and Solutions
You can use these tools to identify and resolve micro-accessibility issues:
- Lighthouse: Google's accessibility analysis tool.
- WAVE: Visually shows accessibility deficiencies on websites.
- Axe: Accessibility testing tool for developers.
Micro-accessibility is an approach that is often overlooked but can greatly transform the user experience. By paying attention to small details, you can create a more accessible, user-friendly and successful website.
Would you like to make your site more accessible for your users? Pay attention to the details and take action for a more inclusive digital world!