Week 3: Pour Web Design

Include A11y in your design

Creating an accessible web experience is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about designing for everyone. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are built on four foundational principles, often referred to by the acronym POUR. These principles ensure that web content is Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust, helping developers and designers create websites that are accessible to all users, regardless of ability.

The POUR Principles

In 2008, WCAG 2.0 introduced the POUR principles, which have since become the cornerstone of accessible web design. Let’s break down what each principle entails:

Perceivable

Content and user interface components must be presented in ways that users can perceive, regardless of their sensory abilities.

• Text Alternatives: Provide alt text for images, captions for videos, and transcripts for audio content so that users who rely on assistive technologies can access all information.
• Adaptable Layouts: Ensure that content can be presented in multiple ways, such as adjusting font sizes or color contrast, without losing meaning or functionality.
• Distinguishable Design: Use sufficient contrast for text and background colors, and avoid flashing visuals that could trigger seizures.

Operable

Navigation and user interface elements must be operable for all users. This means that people using alternative input methods (like a keyboard instead of a mouse) can still interact with all site functions.

• Keyboard Accessibility: Ensure all functionality is accessible by keyboard alone, which is essential for users with motor disabilities who may not use a mouse.
• Enough Time: Allow users adequate time to read and interact with content, avoiding time-based restrictions whenever possible.
• Seizure-Safe Design: Avoid flashing elements or high-contrast animations that could provoke seizures.
• Clear Navigation: Incorporate intuitive navigation aids, like breadcrumbs or consistent menus, to help users understand where they are on the site.

Understandable

Information and user interface operation should be easy to understand, providing users with predictable and intuitive experiences.

• Simple Language: Use clear, concise language to make content easier to read. Avoid technical jargon, or provide explanations when it’s necessary to use specialized terms.
• Predictable Behavior: Ensure that navigation and page layouts are consistent across the site. Alert users to actions that might differ from expected outcomes (e.g., when a link opens a new window).
• Input Assistance: Provide guidance and feedback on input fields, especially for forms. Help users avoid mistakes by including error notifications and suggestions for correcting input errors.

Robust

Content should be robust enough to work with current and future technologies, including various assistive tools, ensuring a seamless experience as devices and platforms evolve.

• Compatible Code: Use well-structured HTML and proper coding standards to make content accessible for assistive technologies like screen readers and magnifiers.
• Assistive Technology Testing: Regularly test your website with different devices and assistive tools to ensure accessibility across diverse platforms and user needs.