Blog
What will a website accessibility audit give me?
Understanding why A website accessibility audit will provide you with valuable insights into the accessibility of your website for users with disabilities. Here are some of the key benefits and outcomes you can expect from a website accessibility audit: 1. Identification of accessibility barriers The audit will help you identify specific accessibility barriers and issues that may prevent people with disabilities from accessing and using your website effectively. These barriers can include problems with navigation, keyboard accessibility,... read more »
Please do not use Filenames as Alt Text
Hopefully, most of us have heard of Alt Text and how important it is. It is used to provide a description of an image, to allow blind people to make sense of what the image is. It is possible to create this easily when you upload an image to a website. It is also one of the most common accessibility fails that I come across in my website accessibility audits.Most automated accessibility checkers will... read more »
Overlays do not just affect disabled people!
A great start to the week! Monday morning. My car won’t start and I have a one-hour drive home ahead of me. I drive a 22-year-old Volvo which I love very much but sometimes there is an issue with the immobiliser. Disconnecting the battery for a few minutes usually fixes it.It did not this time.After 5 mins and after 10 mins.I go online to the AA’s website to request help.Whilst waiting for the AA, I... read more »
Logical Reading Order
What does a Logical Reading Order mean?Logical reading order refers to the sequential arrangement of content in a document or text that allows readers to comprehend the information in a coherent and meaningful way. It ensures that the content flows logically, making it easier for readers to follow the intended structure and hierarchy of information.In the context... read more »
Imitation is the highest form of flattery!
That accessibility tool looks familiar! In my last blog, I detailed my recent journey with the Scottish Parliament in developing a new MSP Expenses Tool that was fully accessible. It was an incredibly positive experience for everyone involved, as we were invited to be involved from the beginning. This is a rare experience. Accessibility normally comes last I understand that there are many reasons why accessibility does not get included from the beginning.This is often because of... read more »
Helping the Scottish Parliament with their Digital Accessibility
A very different experience We usually get called in to work with an organisation after launching their website, often up to a year later. Occasionally we will get involved sooner, such as before a website is about to be launched. In all of these cases, however, the costs of remedial works are often considerable. However, our recent involvement with the Scottish Parliament was very different indeed.The Scottish Parliament were looking to develop its Member’s Expenses... read more »
Understanding Web Analytics: Using Data to Improve Your Website's Performance
Web analytics is essential for any business or organization with a website. It involves collecting and analyzing data on your website's performance to gain insights into user behaviour, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to optimize your website's performance. With the vast amount of data available, web analytics can seem overwhelming, but it can be a powerful tool for driving success with the right tools and approach. In this article, we'll explore the key... read more »
Let’s talk about Links
Website accessibility audit for an NHS Trust I have just finished an audit for an NHS Health Trust. Generally, the standard of accessibility was high from my initial checks, but when I started digging deeper with my team, we started to find some issues. This is normal and expected. Inconsistency One of the most common issues we come across is inconsistency. This is often found in link behaviour. Usually, a link is underlined, so that you know... read more »
Today is a day of triple celebration!
By the strangest of coincidences, 3 events are happening today. What is happening? Firstly, today is Global Accessibility Awareness Day! It was first launched in May 2012 with the aim of getting everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital (web, software, mobile, etc.) access or inclusion and people with different disabilities. This is obviously so close to our hearts! This is fantastic! What else? Secondly, it is our 17th birthday! On 18th May 2006, Access by Design officially... read more »
Once upon a time, 34 years ago…
A life-changing event 4 teenagers come out of a club in Brighton at 2am. The driver felt he had too much to drink, so they all agreed to sleep in the car. Clive slept in the back seat and his fiancée Jess slept in the boot, as it was an estate car. Their friend Jane slept in the passenger seat.The driver woke up at 4am, felt OK and set off. He didn’t wake the others,... read more »