How to make your app accessible
A women and a girl with glasses using a screen reader on a tablet device
Ensuring accessibility in your app not only enhances user experience but also broadens your reach to a diverse audience. In this guide, we'll delve into the nuances of app accessibility, focusing on key differences from web accessibility, testing methods, and practical tips for implementation.
App accessibility and usability
While web accessibility principles provide a foundation, mobile apps present unique challenges. Users interact differently with apps, below are some of the most important accessibility differences to consider when designing mobile applications. Understanding these differences is crucial for crafting an inclusive experience.
Accessibility differences between websites and apps
- User Interaction: While websites primarily rely on mouse-based interactions, digital applications often incorporate touch gestures, keyboard navigation, and voice commands, requiring varied accessibility support.
- Screen Size and Layout: Websites adapt to different screen sizes and orientations, while apps may have fixed layouts optimised for specific devices,
- Offline Functionality: Unlike websites, apps may offer offline functionality, posing challenges in maintaining accessibility features and content availability without internet access.
Guidelines for app accessibility
We have produced a free, in-depth guide to help steer your efforts towards app accessibility. The document teaches you how to follow RNIB's internal app assessment guidelines, which are based on the internationally recognised ISO 9241-171:2008 standard for software accessibility. Learn the importance of speech and magnification technologies integrated into the Operating Systems (OS) of interaction methods, gestures, and settings adjustments for improved accessibility. Download your copy using the link below.
RNIB website accessibility services
RNIB provides a suite of business services dedicated to enhancing the accessibility of websites and digital services. Our skilled consultants conduct thorough accessibility audits, deliver training workshops, and offer continuous support, ensuring adherence to accessibility standards and industry best practices.
Prioritising website accessibility not only fulfils legal obligations but also showcases a company's dedication to inclusivity and social responsibility. Let's collaborate to build a digital environment that caters to everyone's needs effectively.
