Accessible Development
Accessible Development is a software development methodology focused on creating digital products, such as websites and applications, that are usable by people with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. It involves implementing practices and standards, like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), to ensure content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboard navigation. This approach aims to remove barriers and provide equal access to information and functionality.
Developers should learn and use Accessible Development to comply with legal requirements (e.g., ADA, Section 508) and avoid discrimination lawsuits, while also expanding market reach by serving the over 1 billion people worldwide with disabilities. It is essential for public-facing websites, government applications, and any product aiming for inclusivity, as it improves user experience for everyone, including older adults and those with temporary impairments, and enhances SEO by making content more machine-readable.