Accessible web design for a global audience
Websites are used by people around the world. People access content on phones, tablets, and slow connections. To serve a global audience, design must be clear, fast, and easy to navigate.
When you write, use plain language and short sentences. Provide translations or easy links to translations. Add a lang attribute to the page so browsers can choose the right language and assistive tech can adapt.
Make keyboard navigation smooth. Ensure every interactive element can be reached with Tab and activated with Enter or Space. Provide visible focus indicators and skip links to jump to the main content.
Color matters beyond looks. Use good contrast between text and background and don’t rely on color to convey meaning. WCAG guidelines help, but test with real users and high-contrast modes in different environments.
Images need alt text that describes their function or content. Decorative images can have empty alt text. If you use icons, label them for screen readers too to avoid confusion.
Use semantic HTML: headings, paragraphs, lists. That structure helps screen readers and search engines. Only add ARIA roles when you truly need them for accessibility.
Localization and direction: support different languages and text direction. Use Unicode, avoid hard-coded strings, and plan right-to-left support if needed. Provide locale-aware date and time formats.
Performance matters in all regions. Responsive layout, scalable fonts, and optimized images help users with slow connections. A clear hierarchy ensures key information remains easy to read.
Test with real users and assistive tech. Automated checks help, but they don’t catch everything. Invite feedback from communities around your target regions.
Practical steps for teams: decide supported locales, add language switchers, and include accessibility checks in the workflow. Keep content fresh and easy to translate, and document decisions for future work.
Key Takeaways
- Plan for multiple languages and clear navigation
- Use semantic HTML, keyboard accessibility, and good color contrast
- Test with real users across devices and regions