Bringing AccessAlly Brand Websites into WCAG 2.2 Compliance: Designing for Inclusivity

As AccessAlly’s user base grew, so did the need to ensure that our websites were accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities. I led a project to help bring all of the brand’s websites into full compliance with WCAG 2.2 guidelines—making the digital experience not only more inclusive but also more user-friendly for everyone.

Ensuring Contrast and Visual Clarity

One of my key tasks was adjusting the brand colors on the websites to meet the required contrast guidelines. This meant fine-tuning the color palette to ensure that all users, including those with visual impairments, could comfortably navigate and interact with the sites. The challenge was maintaining AccessAlly’s vibrant and fun aesthetic while enhancing visual clarity, and I struck that balance with careful color adjustments.

Identifying and Addressing Accessibility Gaps

Beyond colors, I conducted a thorough review of each website to find areas where we could improve accessibility. This included ensuring that all links were properly labeled and using ARIA controls to enhance the experience for screen reader users. These adjustments helped create a more intuitive experience for users relying on assistive technologies, making sure they could navigate content effortlessly.

Developing a Dark Mode for Color Vision Deficiencies

In an effort to accommodate users with color vision deficiencies, I developed a dark mode version of the websites. This not only enhanced accessibility but also added a new layer of customization, giving users more control over their browsing experience. Dark mode reduces eye strain for all users, but for those with visual impairments, it provided an essential alternative to the standard light mode.

Screen Reader and Keyboard Navigation: Making the Web Truly Accessible

Another major focus was making sure the websites were fully accessible for users navigating with screen readers and keyboards. By carefully structuring the sites’ layouts and adding keyboard-friendly navigation, I ensured that users who rely on these tools could access all content smoothly and intuitively.

Clear Captions and Labels for Enhanced Understanding

Finally, I made sure that all images, figures, and tables across the sites had clear captions and labels. This attention to detail ensured that all users could understand the context and purpose of visual content, even if they were unable to see it.

A Commitment to Accessibility and Usability

The result of this project was a fully accessible, user-friendly suite of websites that not only complied with WCAG 2.2 guidelines but also reinforced AccessAlly’s commitment to inclusivity. By improving the experience for users with disabilities, we created a better experience for everyone.