Mobile app developers are struggling to make their apps accessible. How can you help them?

1 What is accessibility?

Accessibility is the design and development of products, services, or environments that can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities or preferences. Accessibility covers a wide range of aspects, such as vision, hearing, mobility, cognition, and language. For mobile app developers, accessibility means ensuring that their apps are compatible with assistive technologies, such as screen readers, magnifiers, or voice control, and that they follow the best practices of user interface design, such as contrast, color, font, layout, and navigation.

2 Why is accessibility important?

Accessibility is important for several reasons. First, it is a legal obligation in many countries and regions, such as the United States, the European Union, Canada, and Australia, to comply with the accessibility standards and regulations, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) or the Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Failing to do so can result in lawsuits, fines, or reputational damage. Second, it is a moral duty to respect the human rights and dignity of all users, and to promote diversity and inclusion in the digital world. Third, it is a business advantage to reach a wider and more loyal customer base, and to enhance the usability and quality of your apps for everyone.

4 How to improve your app for accessibility?

Improving your app for accessibility is an ongoing process that requires constant learning and updating. However, there are some general tips and best practices you can use to make your app more accessible. Consider using semantic and descriptive labels for app elements, as well as alternative text or captions for non-text content. Additionally, use clear and consistent language and terminology, as well as sufficient contrast and color combinations for your design. Make sure to use adjustable and readable font size and style, as well as an intuitive and logical layout and navigation. Responsive and adaptive design is also important for ensuring your app works well on different screen sizes, orientations, and resolutions. Furthermore, use accessible and compatible code for your app following the accessibility standards and guidelines such as WCAG or Section 508.

5 How to learn more about accessibility?

Learning more about accessibility is a valuable and rewarding skill for any mobile app developer. There are many resources and opportunities available to help you gain knowledge in this area, such as online courses, tutorials, and forums where you can ask questions or share tips. Additionally, online events and webinars provide updates and inspiration on the latest trends and innovations in mobile app accessibility. Furthermore, there are several online tools and resources to test, improve, or showcase your mobile app accessibility. Examples include WebAIM, A11y Project, or Inclusive Design Toolkit.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?