6 Key Practices for WCAG 2.2 AA Compliant Applications and Websites

An accessible app or website is crucial to ensure inclusivity and provide equal access to all users, including those with disabilities. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 outlines criteria to help designers and developers achieve this. Here are 6 key practices to meet WCAG 2.2 AA guidelines, with examples to help you ensure your digital platform meets these requirements. 

1. Provide Text Alternatives for Non-Text Content 

Why it matters: Users who are visually impaired rely on screen readers to interpret and describe images, videos, and other multimedia content.  
How to implement: Ensure that every non-text element has a text equivalent, such as alt text for images, captions for videos, and descriptions for graphs and charts.  
Example: An image of a dog playing in the park should have alt text like "Golden retriever playing fetch in the park." 

2. Ensure Keyboard Accessibility 

Why it matters: Users with motor impairments often use keyboards or assistive technologies instead of a mouse.  
How to implement: Ensure that all interactive elements (like links, buttons, and form fields) can be navigated and operated using a keyboard. Implement logical tab order and visible focus indicators.  
Example: A website's navigation menu should be accessible using the tab key, with a clear visual indicator (like an outline) showing which element is in focus.  

3. Use Sufficient Colour Contrast 

Why it matters: Users with low vision or colour blindness need adequate contrast between text and background to read content easily.  
How to implement: Maintain a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Use tools to check colour contrast ratios.  

Example: White text on a dark blue background provides good contrast and should be tested with a colour contrast checker to ensure it meets the required ratio. 

4. Provide Clear and Consistent Navigation 

Why it matters: Consistent navigation helps users with cognitive impairments understand and predict where they can find information.  
How to implement: Keep navigation menus consistent across all pages and clearly highlight the current page within the navigation.  
Example: If the "Contact Us" link is at the top right on the homepage, it should remain in the same position on all other pages. 

5. Use Descriptive Links 

Why it matters: Screen readers often navigate via links, so descriptive links help users understand the context of where each link will lead.  
How to implement: Avoid using generic text like "click here" for links. Instead, use descriptive text that indicates the link's destination or action.  
Example: Instead of "Click here for more information," use "Read more about our accessibility features." 
 

6. Offer Multiple Ways to Access Content 

Why it matters: Providing multiple ways to navigate to content ensures that users with different needs and preferences can access information.  

How to implement: Include a search feature, site map, and consistent navigation. Also, ensure that users can reach any page from any other page using these features.  

Example: In addition to a navigation bar, include a site-wide search box and a footer with links to all main sections of the site. 

Ensuring your digital products meet WCAG 2.2 AA guidelines is crucial not just for legal compliance, but also for improving the user experience for a diverse audience. By adopting these top 6 practices, you can make your app or website more accessible, inclusive, and user-friendly. Many websites and apps are subject to audits by the Government Digital Service, highlighting the importance of accessibility. Remember, accessibility is a continuous journey, so regularly review and update your digital offerings to uphold and enhance accessibility standards.