Building Apps for Accessibility Beyond ADA Compliance

These days, app and digital accessibility is often seen as another “checkbox”—something you do to stay legally compliant, like ADA compliance. But one thing to always keep in mind is that building for accessibility should go beyond just satisfying the law. It’s about building apps that are inclusive and cater to all users, especially those who are too often forgotten in design and development phases. For companies looking to innovate, ignoring this growing segment of users can leave money on the table and throwing up unnecessary barriers for potential customers.

Why Accessibility is More Than ADA

ADA compliance is a good start, but it’s also just the start. Accessibility means making your app usable by everyone, no matter their abilities. Visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments each present a unique challenge that standard ADA guidelines usually overlook. Creating an app that genuinely works for all users means adopting broader perspectives and design thought processes.

Think of this as a chance to build apps with diverse users in mind. They’re more adaptable, easier to use, and provide a seamless experience for everyone, including those with disabilities. The ripple effect? Enhanced brand loyalty, user satisfaction, and fewer legal issues.

Designing for Real People, Not Just Real Guidelines

Too many developers design to meet the regulations without thinking about the actual people using the app. This leads to experiences that technically meet regulations but fall short in practicality. For example, adding a voice-over feature might check the box, but if the user flow still sucks for those using assistive tech, what’s the point?

When you build for true accessibility, you’ll be able to engage with those that will use these features. User testing should include individuals with disabilities at every phase of your development process. These insights can give insight into usability barriers.

Tips for Inclusive App Development

Embracing Universal Design

Focus on making your app usable for everyone from the start, without needing any special features or adaptations. Consider factors such as text size, color contrast, and touch targets from the start.

Semantic HTML and ARIA Landmarks

Assistive technology can help you because of the well-structured code that delivers a smooth experience for users with screen readers.

Enable Customization

Every user is different, we know that, so you should offer customizable options such as text size, color schemes, and navigation, so everyone can adjust their experience to their needs.

Put Cognitive Load at Top of Mind

While we might just be thinking about physical impairments, cognitive load can make or break the user-experience for those with ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive disabilities.

Better Apps for Everyone Is What We Thrive For

When you’re pounding the idea of accessibility into your developer’s minds, they’ll take that methodology and translate it into the development of the app. Users with disabilities won’t just get to use the app, but use it to its full potential. Simplistic and intuitive designs will help them, and this forces developers to consider usability from all angles, which can lead (not only for those who need it) to improved app performance, smoother navigation, and overall better user experience and interface.

Takeaways

ADA compliance is important, but it’s just the first step in developing an inclusive app. By focusing on the needs of the “forgotten”, you not only create an overall better app, but you create a better app experience for everyone who might use your app. Let’s stop viewing accessibility as a box to check and start seeing it as a business opportunity. Because when everyone can use your app, everyone wins.