How to Create an Inclusive and Accessible
User Experience
Creating an inclusive and accessible user experience (UX) is no longer optional—it’s a
fundamental aspect of modern design. By prioritizing accessibility, you ensure that your
website or app is usable by as many people as possible, regardless of their abilities or
limitations. This approach not only complies with legal standards but also fosters a more
inclusive digital environment that benefits everyone. Here’s an informative guide on how to
create an inclusive and accessible user experience.
Understand the Importance of Accessibility in
Design
Accessibility in design ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can interact
with your website or application. Disabilities may range from visual and hearing impairments
to mobility challenges and cognitive disabilities. According to the World Health
Organization, over a billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, making
accessible design essential for inclusivity.
Failing to design with accessibility in mind not only alienates potential users but also limits
the reach of your product. Designing for accessibility enhances the usability of your site for
all users, which in turn improves engagement, conversions, and customer satisfaction.
Adopt a Simple, Clear Layout and Structure
A clean and intuitive layout forms the foundation of a good user experience for users with
cognitive disabilities, including those with conditions like dyslexia; simple navigation and
clear labeling of elements (such as buttons, links, and headings) are essential.
Navigation: Ensure that your navigation is intuitive and easy to follow. Use clear labels for
menus and links and avoid clutter.
Headings: Organize content using clear, hierarchical headings (H1, H2, H3) that break up
text and allow users to scan for important information. This is especially important for screen
reader users, who rely on heading structure to navigate the page.
Forms: Ensure forms are easy to complete, with clearly labeled fields and helpful error
messages. For example, when a form field is incomplete or incorrect, provide specific
feedback to guide the user in correcting it.
Make Your Content Legible
Readability plays a crucial role in making your content accessible. Users with visual
impairments, dyslexia, and even some cognitive disabilities may struggle with small or poorly
formatted text.
Font Choice: Select easy-to-read fonts such as Arial, Verdana, or Helvetica. It is generally
good to avoid fancy fonts that may be difficult to read.
Font Size and Line Spacing: Ensure the font size is large enough to read comfortably (at
least 16px for body text). Provide enough line spacing (1.5x the font size) to make reading
easier, especially for users with dyslexia.
Color Contrast: Use high contrast between text and background, such as dark text on a light
background or light text on a dark background. Avoid relying solely on color to convey
meaning, as colorblind users may miss critical information.
Implement Keyboard Accessibility