Designing for Accessibility Explained
Key Concepts
- Color Contrast
- Keyboard Navigation
- Alt Text for Images
- Screen Reader Compatibility
- Semantic HTML
Color Contrast
Color contrast refers to the difference in luminance and color between text and its background. Ensuring high color contrast is crucial for users with visual impairments, as it makes text more readable. In Figma, you can use the contrast checker tool to verify that your color choices meet accessibility standards.
Imagine color contrast as the difference between light and dark in a painting. High contrast makes the subject stand out, just as it makes text readable for all users.
Keyboard Navigation
Keyboard navigation ensures that users can interact with your design using only a keyboard. This is essential for users who cannot use a mouse due to physical disabilities. In Figma, you can design components that are easily navigable using keyboard shortcuts, such as tabbing through interactive elements.
Think of keyboard navigation as a series of buttons on a remote control. Each button (element) can be accessed in a logical order, allowing users to navigate without needing a mouse.
Alt Text for Images
Alt text (alternative text) is a description of an image that is read aloud by screen readers. It provides context for users with visual impairments. In Figma, you can add alt text to images to ensure they are accessible to all users. This text should be descriptive and concise.
Consider alt text as a voice-over for a silent film. It explains what is happening in the scene, making the content accessible to those who cannot see the images.
Screen Reader Compatibility
Screen reader compatibility ensures that your design can be fully understood by screen readers, which are tools that read out the content of a screen to users with visual impairments. In Figma, you can use semantic elements and proper hierarchy to make your design screen reader-friendly.
Think of screen readers as tour guides for a museum. They provide detailed descriptions of each exhibit (element), ensuring that all visitors (users) can enjoy the experience.
Semantic HTML
Semantic HTML involves using HTML elements that carry meaning, such as headings, paragraphs, and lists, rather than just using generic divs. This helps screen readers and other assistive technologies understand the structure of your content. In Figma, you can design with semantic HTML in mind by using appropriate text styles and hierarchy.
Imagine semantic HTML as a well-organized library. Each book (element) is placed in a specific section (tag) based on its content, making it easy for users to find what they need.
Examples and Analogies
For instance, when designing a website, ensure that the text color has a high contrast with the background to make it readable for all users. Use keyboard navigation to allow users to tab through links and buttons. Add alt text to images to describe their content. Use semantic HTML to structure your content logically, making it easier for screen readers to interpret.
Consider a mobile app design where buttons have high contrast colors and are easily navigable via keyboard. Images include descriptive alt text, and the app's structure is built using semantic HTML, ensuring that all users, including those with disabilities, can interact with the app effectively.