Why Digital Accessibility Matters
Digital accessibility means designing websites, tools, and materials so that everyone, including people with disabilities, can use them.
Colorado’s House Bill 21-1110 and recent updates to ADA Title II reinforce that digital accessibility is a fundamental part of equal access. These laws make clear that inclusion extends beyond physical spaces to digital environments such as documents, websites, software, and mobile apps.
Beyond meeting compliance standards, accessibility is about removing barriers, supporting diverse needs, and benefiting all users.
The following five practices provide simple ways to start improving accessibility right away.
1. Ensure Sufficient Color Contrast
Color contrast plays a major role in how text and visuals stand out on a page. The WebAIM Contrast Checker makes it easy to test color combinations before publishing.
Good contrast supports people with low vision or color blindness and improves readability for all users.
Avoid Using Color Alone to Convey Meaning
Color should not be the only method of conveying information. For example, if red indicates an error and green signals success, users who can’t distinguish between those colors may miss important information. Add text, symbols, or patterns to reinforce meaning.
2. Use Headings and Structure to Organize Content
Headings provide structure for all readers and are essential for people using assistive technology such as screen readers. Use a Heading 1 for the main page title, Heading 2s for section headings, and so on.
Consistent structure helps readers understand how information is organized, improving navigation and supporting quick scanning for key details.
3. Write Effective Alt Text for Images
Alternative text, or alt text, allows individuals with visual impairments to access information conveyed by images. Alt text should be concise and describe the content and purpose of an image when it conveys meaningful information.
For example, effective alt text for a logo could be “Rocky Mountain ADA Center logo” rather than something vague such as “logo” or “image 1.”
Alt text also improves search visibility and ensures that important information isn’t lost if an image fails to load.
4. Make Hyperlinks Descriptive
Hyperlinks should be clear and specific. Avoid generic text such as “click here,” “read more,” or long URLs. Make the purpose of the link clear:
Learn more about RMADAC training opportunities.
(rather than “Read more here.”)
Descriptive links assist people who navigate with assistive technology and help all users quickly find relevant information.
5. Add Captions to Multimedia
Captions provide a text alternative to audio and make videos accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing or have other disabilities.
Accurate captions also benefit anyone viewing a video in a quiet or noisy environment, people who prefer to read along, or those learning in another language. Most video platforms offer automatic captioning but always review for accuracy before publishing.
Explore Accessibility Resources
Accessibility is an ongoing journey, and there is no shortage of great learning tools. A few recommended sources include:
• W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) - Sets global accessibility standards and provides practical guidance.
• WebAIM - Provides tutorials, articles, and testing tools.
• The Accessibility Guy and Accessibility Unraveled (CHAX) - Share short, approachable videos that make accessibility topics easy to understand.
• LinkedIn Learning - Offers accessibility and inclusive design courses (often free through public libraries!).
Everyone Has a Role in Accessibility
Accessibility isn’t just the responsibility of developers or designers — everyone can contribute.
Simple habits go a long way in everyday tasks:
• Use clear headings to organize long emails or documents.
• Write descriptive links - instead of “click here,” try “Open the registration form.”
• Add alt text when you post images on social media.
• Enable captions before sharing a training video.
• Double-check color contrast before sharing graphics or slides.
The Big Picture
Digital accessibility strengthens usability and promotes equity. Each accessible document, captioned video, and well-structured webpage contributes to a stronger foundation of inclusion.
When we design with accessibility in mind, we build a more inclusive community for all. It’s a practical way to ensure that everyone can access information, connect, and engage independently.
About the Author:
Shannon Lavey is an Occupational Therapist and Assistive Technology Professional. She works as the Digital Accessibility Coordinator for Jefferson County, Colorado, and serves on the Rocky Mountain ADA Center Advisory Committee.