WCAG 2.1 Levels Explained: A-AA-AAA
What’s the difference between A, AA, and AAA compliance? We break down each level and help you pick the right target for your website.
Read MoreAccessible Web Design Following WCAG Standards
Learn how to build inclusive digital experiences that work for everyone in Canada and beyond
Web accessibility isn’t optional — it’s essential. These guides cover everything from understanding WCAG standards to implementing inclusive design practices that make your website usable for all visitors, regardless of ability.
Essential Reading on Web Accessibility
Explore practical guides and in-depth resources to understand and implement accessibility best practices
Screen Readers and Assistive Technology
Understand how people with visual impairments navigate the web. We’ve got tips for testing your site with common screen readers.
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Mobile Accessibility: Touch and Navigation
Mobile devices need different accessibility approaches. Learn about touch targets, orientation, and making your mobile site work for everyone.
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Color Contrast and Visual Accessibility
Color alone isn’t enough to communicate meaning. We’ll show you how to meet contrast ratios and make your design work for colorblind users too.
Read MoreThe Four Principles of Web Accessibility
WCAG standards are built on these foundational principles. Understanding them helps you make better decisions when designing and building for inclusion.
1
Perceivable
Information and user interface components must be presentable to users in ways they can perceive. This means text alternatives for images, captions for videos, and enough color contrast so people can actually read your content.
2
Operable
Users must be able to navigate and interact with your site. Keyboard navigation, sufficient time for interactions, and avoiding seizure-inducing content all fall here. Not everyone uses a mouse.
3
Understandable
Your content needs to be clear and predictable. Use plain language, label form inputs, and make navigation consistent. People shouldn’t have to struggle to understand how your site works.
4
Robust
Your code needs to be clean and standards-compliant so assistive technologies can interpret it correctly. Use proper semantic HTML and test with real assistive tech, not just automated checkers.
Getting Started with Accessible Design
You don’t need to be an accessibility expert to make a real difference. Start with these practical steps.
Use Semantic HTML
Use proper heading tags (h1, h2, h3), button elements for buttons, and landmark tags like main, nav, and footer. It’s the foundation everything else builds on.
Write Alt Text
Describe what images actually show — not “image” or “photo.” Be concise but specific. This helps screen reader users understand your content.
Check Your Colors
Test color contrast ratios. Aim for at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Free tools like WebAIM can check this instantly.
Keyboard Navigation
Test your entire site using only the keyboard. Tab through links, use Enter for buttons, and make sure focus is always visible. It’s not just for accessibility.