Accessibility
Accessibility (often abbreviated as a11y) is the practice of designing and developing digital products, such as websites and applications, to be usable by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. It involves implementing features and following guidelines, like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), to ensure content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. This includes techniques like semantic HTML, ARIA attributes, keyboard navigation, and color contrast adjustments.
Developers should learn and implement accessibility features to create inclusive digital experiences that comply with legal requirements (e.g., ADA, Section 508) and reach a broader audience, including over 1 billion people globally with disabilities. It is essential for web and mobile development to avoid discrimination, improve SEO, and enhance usability for all users, such as by ensuring screen reader compatibility and touch-friendly interfaces in applications like e-commerce sites or public service platforms.