In short, accessibility means the web designer has taken in to account different types of people using his website, adding tools and features that allow as many people as possible to access the content. I've designed this website for everybody, not just a select few.
Below is a list of accessibility features I've added to my website:
If you have trouble using a mouse, I've implemented access keys to be used on a keyboard for each main section of my website. You can also use the 'arrow' keys to browse up and down the pages. To use access keys on an Apple Mac press:
I have avoided using any bright colors for essential parts of my website that might effect people with color blindness. I have used large and black colored type where possible, that scales in your chosen browser when increase and decrease font size is selected.
I have used Semantic HTML throughout my website, using H1, H2, H3, P and Alt tags to define and format my content. This should allow for a pleasurable audio experience when listening to my website. If you have a young english male voice on your screen reader please select it!
I have put together a "print" style sheet using CSS that removes certain parts of my website when printed out through your browser. Only essential content like information and portfolio images will be displayed, with text being printed shades of black to save you expensive color ink.
Remember, please consider the environment before printing my website.
Jon Leverrier is a freelance web designer, born and raised in Jersey, Channel Islands, who has been trying to rid the world of bad web design since 1998. Over the years Jon has been working with start-ups and large organisations, delivering intelligent design, standards-based HTML/CSS and open source CMS solutions.