For many people, the primary way they interact with a website or app is with their eyes and a mouse. But for millions of users, the experience is auditory. Screen readers are software programs that read aloud what is displayed on a screen, and they are essential tools for people with visual impairments. Designing with screen readers in mind is a fundamental aspect of digital accessibility.
Here are some key things to consider when designing for screen reader users:
- Semantic HTML: Use proper HTML tags (e.g.,
<h1>for headings,<nav>for navigation,<button>for buttons). Screen readers use this structure to help users understand and navigate the page. - Alternative Text for Images: Every image should have a descriptive
alttag. This text is what the screen reader will announce to the user in place of the image. - Keyboard Navigation: Make sure your entire site can be navigated using only the keyboard. A user who cannot use a mouse relies on the tab key to move between interactive elements.
- Clear and Descriptive Links: A screen reader user can pull up a list of all the links on a page. Make sure your link text is descriptive and makes sense out of context (e.g., “Read the full article about accessibility” is better than just “Click Here”).
By thinking beyond the visual and considering how your content sounds, you can create a more inclusive and usable experience for everyone.