General Accessibility Tools
General accessibility tools are software applications, libraries, and utilities designed to help developers create digital products (websites, apps, documents) that are usable by people with disabilities, such as visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive impairments. These tools assist in testing, auditing, and implementing accessibility standards like WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) to ensure compliance and inclusive user experiences. They often include screen readers, color contrast checkers, keyboard navigation testers, and automated testing suites.
Developers should learn and use general accessibility tools to build inclusive products that comply with legal requirements (e.g., ADA, Section 508) and reach a broader audience, including over 1 billion people with disabilities worldwide. These tools are essential during development and testing phases to identify and fix accessibility issues early, such as poor color contrast, missing alt text, or keyboard traps, which improves usability for all users and reduces the risk of lawsuits or exclusion.