accessibility

How is Accessibility Testing calculated?

Accessibility refers to how accessible a website is to people, particularly those with disabilities or non-standard browsers (such as mobile phones). This includes people with visual impairment such as colour blindness, long sightedness or blindness), learning difficulties and an inability to use a mouse or keyboard.

As an example of what testing engines use to assess accessibility Sitebeam uses these key metrics:

  • Alternative Text test
  • Broken Links test
  • Headings test
  • Internal Search test
  • Mobile test
  • Readability test
  • Redirections test
  • Search Engine Results test
  • Speed test
  • Stylesheets test
  • URL Format test
  • W3C Compliance test

 Why is it important?

  • More people can use accessible websites. Even from an entirely ‘selfish’ perspective, inaccessible websites turn away potential business.
  • The principles behind accessible websites are extremely similar to those for good SEO and tend to ensure greater compatibility with web browsers, particularly future ones.
  • Accessible websites are usually easier to use for everyone, regardless of disability or access platform.
  • In some countries a certain level of accessibility is a legal requirement. Failure to make a website sufficiently accessible is considered discrimination against people with disabilities.
  • Lastly it’s just the right thing to do. You’ll be helping improve the quality of life for disabled users by allowing them to access your information along with everyone else.