Website accessibility means designing and building a website so that everyone—regardless of ability—can access, navigate, and interact with it. This includes users with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities. A truly accessible website removes barriers that could prevent people from using it effectively. Beyond just being the right thing to do, accessibility is also great for business and improves the overall user experience.

Let’s explore what website accessibility includes, why it matters, and how you can make your site more inclusive.

Why website accessibility matters

Making your website accessible ensures everyone has equal access to your content and services. People with disabilities make up a significant portion of internet users, so failing to design with accessibility in mind excludes a huge audience.

Accessibility also supports better usability for all users, including those on mobile devices or in low-bandwidth areas. Plus, accessible sites often perform better in SEO, since search engines value clean code, descriptive headings, and alt text—all core parts of accessibility.

Key elements of accessible websites

Accessible websites are built with features that assist a wide range of users. Here are some of the most important components:

• Text alternatives for images: Using alt text helps screen readers describe images to visually impaired users.
• Keyboard navigation: All interactive elements should be usable without a mouse.
• Readable fonts and sufficient color contrast: Clear typography and strong contrast make text easier to read.
• Descriptive link text: Links like "click here" don’t provide enough context; instead, use meaningful labels.
• Semantic HTML: Proper use of headings and structure helps screen readers understand content flow.

These features help ensure your site is both accessible and easier for everyone to use.

How accessibility improves your site

An accessible website isn’t just better for people with disabilities—it’s better for everyone. Clear navigation, logical layout, and helpful text benefit all users, regardless of ability. Accessibility also overlaps with good UX design, making it easier for visitors to complete tasks and engage with your content.

Moreover, accessible websites can reach a wider audience and help your business stay compliant with regulations like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). And as mentioned earlier, many accessibility features boost your site’s SEO, giving you more visibility in search engines.

How to make your website more accessible

You don’t need to overhaul your site overnight to improve accessibility. Start by focusing on a few key areas:

• Add alt text to all your images.
• Use descriptive headings to organize your content.
• Ensure good color contrast between text and background.
• Provide captions or transcripts for videos.
• Check that your site is fully navigable using a keyboard.

There are also accessibility audit tools that can help you identify and fix issues. And if you’re using a website builder like B12, many accessibility features come built-in—saving you time while helping you stay compliant.

FAQs about website accessibility

What does it mean for a website to be accessible?

An accessible website is designed so that users of all abilities can navigate, understand, and interact with it. This includes people who rely on screen readers, voice commands, or keyboard navigation. Accessibility focuses on removing barriers and improving usability for everyone.

Is accessibility required by law?

In many regions, yes. In the U.S., for example, the ADA requires certain organizations to maintain accessible digital properties. Failing to meet these standards can result in legal action, especially for public-facing businesses or institutions.

What tools can help improve accessibility?

You can use tools like WAVE, Axe, and Lighthouse to scan your website and spot accessibility issues. These tools highlight problems like missing alt text, low contrast, or missing headings. Some website builders like B12 include automated accessibility checks and built-in features to help you stay compliant.

Does accessibility affect SEO?

Yes, it can! Features like semantic HTML, alt text, and descriptive headings not only help screen readers but also improve how search engines index your content. So an accessible site often gets better visibility in search results.

How can I test if my site is accessible?

Try navigating your site with just a keyboard or using a screen reader. Can you reach every menu item and understand the page’s content? Accessibility audit tools can also help automate this process. For an easier approach, using a tool like the B12 Website Builder gives you built-in support for many accessibility features.

Build a website that’s already with accessibility in mind

Creating an accessible site doesn’t have to be complicated. With the B12 AI Website Builder, you get a professional website that includes built-in accessibility features like alt text, readable fonts, keyboard navigation support, and more. It’s an easier, faster way to build an inclusive online presence. Ready to create a more accessible, user-friendly site? Get started with B12 today.