Web accessibility standards and accessibility audits

Web accessibility standards guide how content is presented and navigated by people with diverse abilities. They help teams build sites usable by screen readers, keyboard users, and people with color or low-vision needs. The most widely adopted framework is WCAG, which groups criteria into perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust content. In many regions, laws align with WCAG, such as EN 301 549 in Europe and Section 508 in the United States. Following these standards supports inclusive design and can improve search visibility and overall reliability of a site.

An accessibility audit checks whether a site meets these criteria. It blends automated checks with human review, because machines catch most issues but people spot nuance: meaningful content structure, clear focus order, and real-world usability. A practical audit typically covers scope, baselines, and a remediation plan. Common steps include:

  • Scope and objectives
  • Automated checks for contrast, alt text, landmark roles
  • Manual evaluation of keyboard access and focus visibility
  • Screen reader testing for common patterns (headings, lists, tables)
  • Documentation of findings, severity, and fixes
  • Retesting to verify improvements

Tips for teams include starting early in design and development, using semantic HTML and proper headings, and providing meaningful alt text for images. Check color contrast and ensure visible focus indicators. Use ARIA only when needed and keep roles accurate. Finally, testing with real users and assistive technology helps reveal issues that automated tools miss.

Audit reports should be clear and actionable. They help product owners understand impact, prioritize fixes, and track progress over time. By integrating accessibility into design, development, and content workflows, teams can deliver usable products for everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • Standards provide a shared language for accessibility and guide good practices.
  • Audits combine automated checks with human review to cover both obvious and subtle issues.
  • Start early, test with assistive technologies, and document fixes to maintain progress.