Accessibility in Modern UI
2025-07-18 • By ελλββββαω Team
Accessibility is no longer a "nice-to-have" — it's a fundamental requirement for every modern web experience. In this post, we'll explore practical strategies for creating inclusive interfaces that work for everyone.
Why Accessibility Matters
15% of the world's population lives with some form of disability (WHO). Accessible interfaces not only enable people with disabilities but also enhance usability for all users, including those using assistive technologies.
Core Principles:
- Perceivable: Information must be presented in ways users can perceive
- Operable: UI components must be operable using various input methods
- Understandable: Navigation and interactions must be intuitive
- Robust: Compatible with current and future browsers and assistive technologies
Implementation Best Practices
Semantic HTML
Use elements like <nav>, <main>, and <button> Instead of generic <div>s. Proper HTML structure improves screen reader navigation and keyboard accessibility.
{code}
<nav role="navigation" aria-label="Main menu">
<ul class="flex gap-4">
<li><a href="/" class="hover:underline">Home</a></li>
<li><a href="/blog" class="hover:underline">Blog</a></li>
</ul>
</nav>
ARIA Patterns
Use ARIA roles and properties when semantic elements aren't sufficient. Examples include aria-expanded for menus and aria-live for dynamic content updates.
{code}
<div role="alert" aria-live="assertive" class="bg-red-50 text-sm px-4 py-2 rounded-lg border-l-4 border-red-400">
System message: 3 errors detected.
</div>
Keyboard Navigation
Ensure all interactive elements are keyboard-accessible. Key requirements:
- Visible focus states for tabs/buttons
- Logical tab order that follows visual layout
- Functional keyboard equivalents for mouse actions
Color Contrast
Color should never be the only means of conveying information. Ensure all text has a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background (3:1 for large text). The WebAIM contrast checker is an invaluable tool.
Pro Tip:
Use tools like axe auditor or Lighthouse accessibility audit to identify and fix issues automatically.
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