How We Approach Accessibility in Web Design (and Why It Matters)

Good Design Is for Everyone—Not Just the Majority

Web accessibility isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Inclusive design ensures your website can be used by as many people as possible, including those with disabilities.

That’s good for your audience. Good for your brand. And increasingly, good for your bottom line.

What Is Web Accessibility?

Accessibility means your site is usable by people with a range of physical, visual, auditory, and cognitive abilities. It covers everything from screen reader compatibility to keyboard navigation to color contrast.

Accessibility is governed by global standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), which break down what’s required for various levels of conformance.

Why It Matters

1. It’s a Legal Concern

ADA lawsuits related to inaccessible websites have increased steadily. Many businesses—especially in healthcare, education, and e-commerce—are legally required to comply.

2. It Expands Your Audience

1 in 4 adults in the U.S. lives with a disability. Accessible sites serve more people, period.

3. It’s a UX and SEO Booster

Accessible websites tend to be faster, better organized, and easier to use—all things that help with search rankings and conversions.

4. It Reflects Your Values

Accessibility shows that your brand values inclusion. That matters to clients, employees, and the public.

How We Build for Accessibility at Electric Easel

Accessibility is part of our design and development workflow from day one—not a bolt-on fix.

Here’s What We Focus On:

• Color Contrast: We use tools to check contrast ratios and ensure legibility for users with visual impairments.
• Keyboard Navigation: All elements—menus, modals, carousels—must be usable without a mouse.
• Alt Text and ARIA Labels: We write meaningful alt descriptions and use ARIA attributes to provide extra screen reader context.
• Clear Heading Structure: Proper heading levels improve screen reader navigation and SEO.
• Form Labels and Feedback: All form fields have visible labels, and error messages are clearly displayed and readable.
• Motion Control: We limit excessive animations and always allow users to reduce motion.

Common Accessibility Gaps We See (And Fix)

• “Read More” links that don’t tell you what you’re reading more about
• Light gray text on white backgrounds
• PDFs without tagging (screen readers can’t interpret them)
• Missing alt text or empty image descriptions
• Buttons that don’t indicate what they do or where they go

Final Thoughts

Accessibility is part of our commitment to quality. It’s not just good ethics—it’s smart design.