Training: ADA Accessibility

Slide from my ADA accessibility presentation

This project focused on equipping the Creative department with best practices for designing web and email experiences that prioritize ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility. Key areas included optimizing alt text, ensuring color contrast, enabling keyboard navigation, and maintaining consistent design patterns. By aligning with WCAG standards, the initiative aimed to enhance user experience, broaden audience reach, and ensure compliance across all digital projects.

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Description

  • broadhead co.

As a Digital Producer, I led a presentation for the Creative department on designing web and email projects with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility in mind. The session focused on the critical role accessibility plays in expanding our audience reach, enhancing user experience, and reinforcing our brand’s commitment to inclusivity.

Key topics covered included:

  1. Alt Text Best Practices – We emphasized the importance of providing clear, descriptive alternative text for images, ensuring that users relying on screen readers can fully engage with our content.
  2. Color Contrast Awareness – We discussed the significance of maintaining appropriate contrast ratios between text and background colors, which improves readability for users with visual impairments. Tools and resources were shared to help designers test and adjust contrast effectively.
  3. Keyboard Navigation – We highlighted the importance of ensuring that all interactive elements, such as buttons and links, are fully navigable using a keyboard, catering to users who cannot operate a mouse.
  4. Clear, Simple Language – We encouraged the use of straightforward, easy-to-understand language to make content more accessible to users with cognitive disabilities or those who may be using translation tools.
  5. Consistent Design Patterns – We stressed the value of using predictable, consistent design patterns across web and email projects to create a seamless experience for all users, regardless of their abilities.
  6. Testing and Compliance – Finally, we reviewed tools and techniques for testing designs against accessibility standards, including WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.

By prioritizing ADA accessibility in our design process, we not only create more inclusive digital experiences but also increase engagement, improve SEO rankings, and reduce legal risks. This initiative aligns with our broader mission to deliver innovative, user-focused solutions that resonate with all audiences.