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Building Accessible Web Applications from Day One

WebLunchers2025-11-107 min read

Why Accessibility Matters

Over 1 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. Building accessible websites isn't just good ethics — it's good business.

Semantic HTML

Start with proper semantic HTML. It's the foundation of accessibility.

Keyboard Navigation

Ensure all interactive elements are keyboard accessible. Use proper focus management.

ARIA Labels

Use ARIA attributes when semantic HTML isn't sufficient to convey meaning.

Color Contrast

Maintain WCAG 2.1 AA contrast ratios — at minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.

Testing

Use tools like axe-core, Lighthouse accessibility audit, and manual screen reader testing.

Conclusion

Accessibility is a journey, not a destination. Start with these fundamentals and iterate.

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WebLunchers

A web development studio based in Glen Allen, Virginia. We write about design, development, and building digital products that matter.