A well-designed interface will take into account all potential users, including those with accessibility needs. By not doing this, companies stand to alienate groups of users. This can have a knock-on effect on user trust in the business as a whole, as well as on the product.
There are rules and processes in place to ensure that companies can encompass all users’ needs. By taking accessibility into account, the design team not only ensures that they improve user experience for everyone, but they will also be rewarded by complying with SEO best practices, therefore leading to improved SEO metrics.
Using proper ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) will ensure that assistive technologies such as screen readers can correctly navigate the site without issues.
Accommodating everyone’s needs sounds like a hefty task, but by keeping the design process user-centric throughout will help to identify user needs in order to design based around user behaviour. When websites are built to the strictest accessibility standards, they are not only user-friendly for all, but the standards will also ensure that the design meets at least the basic legal requirements—therefore addressing and avoiding any legal concerns and negative KPI results. Accessibility guidelines involve three levels, which categorise accessibility conformance into different tiers:
Some important things to take into account when designing for accessibility are factors such as text colour and size, font and contrast. All of these can be categorised in levels and fall under the WCAG accessibility ratings.
UI design that prioritises accessibility ensures inclusivity for all users, including those with disability needs and/or impairments. By adhering to standards and practices such as WCAG and ARIA as well as researching and analysing all user behaviour, design teams can focus on designing interfaces that are not only beautiful, user-friendly, and accessible, but that also adhere to SEO best practices. Designing UI for accessibility should not just be a legal requirement or a tick box, but an absolute necessity that will benefit both the user and the business.
Designing with accessibility in mind isn’t just about compliance – it’s about inclusivity, usability, and creating a better experience for all users. By following accessibility standards such as WCAG and ARIA, design teams can ensure that their interfaces are navigable, readable, and user-friendly for individuals with diverse needs. Beyond ethical responsibility, accessible UI design also enhances SEO performance, improves user trust, and helps businesses meet legal requirements. Ultimately, accessibility should be seen not as an afterthought, but as an essential pillar of good design – one that benefits both users and companies alike.