Improving User Engagement: How to Design for Accessibility and Usability

Title: Embracing Intrinsic Accessibility and Usability in HTML: A CSS-Free Journey

Hello, fellow web developers! Today, let’s embark on an exciting adventure in the realm of web development, where we’ll explore how to design for accessibility and usability in HTML, without relying on CSS for styling. This approach not only enhances the user experience for everyone, but also ensures our websites are accessible to a broader audience, including those using assistive technology.

**1. Semantic HTML: The Foundation**

Semantic HTML is the backbone of our accessible and user-friendly web design. By using appropriate HTML5 tags, we can communicate the structure, purpose, and content of our web page to various users, including screen readers. For instance, let’s use `

` tags for our titles to indicate a secondary-level heading.

“`html

Welcome to Our Website

Explore Our Latest Offers

“`

Remember, semantic HTML simplifies the maintenance of our website, making it easier for search engines to understand our content, too.

**2. Meaningful Link Text**

One of the key principles of accessibility is providing descriptive link text. Instead of using phrases like “Click here” or “Read more,” we should use contextual and descriptive text that communicates the destination or purpose of the link.

“`html
Check out our latest offers
“`

**3. Proper List Structure**

Use ordered lists (`

    `) for lists with a specific order, and unordered lists (`

      `) for lists without a specific order. This helps screen reader users navigate your content more efficiently.

      “`html

      • Item 1
      • Item 2
      • Item 3

      “`

      **4. Accessible Forms**

      Ensure your forms are user-friendly and accessible. Use the `

      “`html


      “`

      **5. Skip Navigation Link**

      A “Skip Navigation” link at the top of the page helps screen reader users bypass the navigation menu and jump directly to the main content.

      “`html

      “`

      **6. Alt Text for Images**

      Providing alt text for images is crucial for users who cannot see them. Alt text should accurately describe the image’s content and purpose.

      “`html
      Company Logo
      “`

      **7. Proper Table Structure**

      Use tables only for tabular data, not for layout. Provide table headers (`

      `) and table captions (`

      `) to help users understand the content structure.

      “`html


      Product Comparison
      Product Price Features
      Product A $100 Feature 1, Feature 2, Feature 3

      “`

      By focusing on the principles above, you’ll create websites that are not only beautiful and user-friendly, but also accessible to everyone. Happy coding, and let’s continue to make the web a more inclusive place for all!

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