Is reviewing web accessibility necessary? This is the question that arises when the need to adapt to the demands of the legislation arises. This is a complex answer because many aspects are involved, but there are some tricks to give you a slight idea. To adapt a web portal to regulations, it is necessary to know the current state as a starting point to introduce changes.
Performing a generic analysis is essential to check the web accessibility of a page. In recent years, the practice of defining as “accessible” portals that in many cases do not meet the requirements has spread. How can it be reviewed? Here are some simple steps you should follow to see if there is truth in that statement.
Navigate with the keyboard
Try navigating with the keyboard. Once you have accessed the website, try to move around without using the mouse. Use the tab key and verify that you can see the point where you are prominently on the screen. If you cannot navigate easily and the identification of the location of the “pointer” is defective because it is not perceived, there is an accessibility deficit.
It is a manual method used to examine the structure of the web. If mobility with the keyboard tab is optimal, accessibility in that section is adequate. Meeting this guideline would mean that the structure is recognizable to screen readers and other devices. The content is perceptible and understandable and is therefore adapted.
Another option is to navigate using the direction arrows on the keyboard through the different links on the portal. If the answer is correct, it can be said that the page is prepared for accessible navigation. It must be taken into account that there are users without the possibility of using the mouse and need an alternative to access that space.
Enlarge the screen
Enlarges the screen size to 200%. It is common for it to appear at 100% by default, but it can be modified to assess web accessibility. You just have to press the “Ctrl” and “+” keys to increase it. In this case, it will be necessary to verify that no imbalances occur and consequently this requirement is met.
They are small tricks that must be put into practice manually and not with automatic tools. They allow you to have a prior idea about the accessibility of the website, although professional advice is always necessary for a detailed diagnosis.
What is evaluated in web accessibility?
Web accessibility is governed by four basic principles: perceptible, operable, understandable and robust. They are included in WCAG 2.1 and establish the basis on which an accessible website must be built.
- Perceptible: the contents and the website must be perceived by all users. Adapted images, text, video and audio. The well-defined structure, intuitive sequences or the size of the letter, among others, are valued. Audio description, subtitles and sign language are necessary.
- Operable: the keyboard must be an alternative to navigate, sufficient time must be allowed to read the content. A functional website that is accessible from a cognitive point of view. No obstacles on the keyboard.
- Understandable: a font readable by all users and a declared language, which is recognizable to the reader. Language should be a connecting tool and not a barrier. Predictable and intuitive pages are more accessible.
- Robust: the website must be compatible with all browsers (Google Chrome, Mozilla, Explorer…) and devices (computer, mobile, tablet…). An independent portal gains accessibility.
Based on these principles, the accessibility levels are set for a web page.
