Web Accessibility Standards and Compliance

Web accessibility means building sites that everyone can use, including people with visual, motor, cognitive or hearing differences. It is the right thing to do, it widens your audience and it increasingly matters for compliance. As a web design company in Bangalore, we build with accessibility in mind. Here is what that involves.

The WCAG standard

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the international standard for accessible web content. They are organised around four principles: content must be perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. WCAG 2.1 AA is the most commonly cited conformance level.

Colour contrast

Text must have sufficient contrast against its background so it is readable for everyone, including people with low vision. WCAG specifies minimum contrast ratios for normal and large text. Strong contrast also improves readability on bright phone screens outdoors.

Keyboard navigation

Many users navigate without a mouse, using keyboard or assistive tech. Every interactive element — links, buttons, forms — must be reachable and usable with the keyboard alone, with a visible focus indicator.

Alt text for images

Images need descriptive alt text so screen readers can convey their meaning. Decorative images should be marked as such. Good alt text also helps SEO and users on slow connections.

Semantic HTML

Using proper HTML elements — headings, lists, buttons, landmarks — gives assistive technology a clear map of your page. Semantic structure also supports SEO-friendly web design.

Readable, understandable content

Plain language, clear headings and predictable layouts help everyone, especially people with cognitive disabilities. Readable content also improves conversions — see our UX guide.

Captions and transcripts

Video and audio content need captions and transcripts for users who are deaf or hard of hearing. They also boost SEO and usability in sound-off environments.

Why compliance matters

Beyond ethics, accessibility is increasingly a legal requirement in many markets. Accessible sites also reach a larger audience and often rank better. It is a win for users, business and search engines alike.

Build accessibility in from the start

Retrofitting accessibility is harder and costlier than building it in from the start. If your site is not accessible, a website redesign with a website designing company in Bangalore like Thanya Tech can bring it up to standard.

Published 24 March 2025 · Back to blog