Accessibility for Developers
Source: https://accessibility.huit.harvard.edu/developers Parent: https://accessibility.huit.harvard.edu/digital-accessibility-policy
This section is for people who develop websites and web applications. It contains best practices, examples, testing methods, and resources to support the following guidelines.
People feel confident using the design because it is stable, robust, and secure.
People can perceive and understand elements in the design.
People can use the product across all modes of interaction and operating with a broad range of devices.
## Images, Icons & Media Players
People can understand and use information contained in media, such as images, audio, video, animation, and presentations.
10 Essentials for Developers
The following are core concepts and questions to ask yourself that will help you create accessible websites and web applications.
- Semantic Markup: Do all elements have the correct semantic markup?
- Input Labels: Are there descriptive labels marking each input element, and labels for input groups?
- Focus: Is there an indicator when interactive elements have keyboard focus, and does its order follow a logical sequence?
- Keyboard: Can all interactive elements be selected and activated using the keyboard?
- Names: Do all interactive controls have an accessible descriptive name?
- Roles: Do all custom controls and widgets have the correct role (e.g., link, button, tab panel)?
- Dynamic Updates: Are all dynamic updates, including error messages, conveyed to assistive technology?
- Colors: Does the design provide sufficient color contrast?
- Layouts: Do page layouts adapt to different window widths and text sizes?
- Images: Do images and icons have the appropriate text alternative?
Upcoming Developer Training
### Web Accessibility in HTML and CSS
Jun 25, 2026
10:00AM - 4:00PM EDT
Virtual - Zoom
Virtual
Learn how the HTML and CSS that you write or edit can make or break the usability of a site for people with disabilities. Through examples and activities, we'll cover essential steps in designing for accessibility. Attendees should understand what...