Accessibility & Usability

Rationale

Accessible and usable interfaces ensure all users, including those with disabilities, can interact with your application. This improves reach, compliance, and user satisfaction.

Accessibility

Design interfaces to be accessible to all users, including those with disabilities.

• Use semantic HTML elements (e.g.,
  ,
• Provide alt text for images and ARIA attributes for interactive elements.
• Ensure keyboard navigation and screen reader compatibility.

Example:

<form>
  <label for="email">Email</label>
  <input type="email" id="email" name="email" aria-describedby="emailHelp">
  <small id="emailHelp">We'll never share your email.</small>
  <button type="submit">Submit</button>
</form>

• Use ARIA attributes (aria-label, aria-describedby) for enhanced accessibility.
• Test with screen readers and browser accessibility tools.
• Provide keyboard navigation for all interactive elements.

Usability

• Use clear labels, instructions, and error messages in forms and interfaces.
• Group related fields and use logical tab order.
• Provide feedback for user actions (e.g., loading indicators, success/error messages).

Example:

// Good: Feedback for user actions
if (loading) {
  showLoadingIndicator();
}
if (error) {
  showError('Something went wrong.');
}
if (success) {
  showSuccess('Saved successfully!');
}

• Use consistent layouts and navigation.
• Ensure responsive design for all devices.
• Avoid relying solely on color to convey information (use icons, text, etc.).
• Make error messages actionable and easy to understand.

Best Practices

• Regularly review and update accessibility standards.
• Document accessibility requirements for new team members.
• Test usability with real users when possible.
• Use automated tools (Lighthouse, axe, WAVE) for accessibility checks.
• Involve real users in usability testing when possible.
• Test usability and accessibility regularly as part of QA.