Enhancing Web Accessibility for WCAG Compliance: User-Centric Design and Testing and Mobile Accessibility (KEY IJP************241)

• Gokul R

Abstract

Web accessibility is a fundamental aspect of creating inclusive digital experiences, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access, navigate, and interact with online content. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide a comprehensive framework to guide developers and designers in achieving accessibility compliance. However, simply adhering to these guidelines is insufficient without considering real-world usability and user experiences. This paper delves into enhancing web accessibility through the integration of user-centric design principles, rigorous testing methodologies, and a focus on mobile accessibilitya critical area in todays mobile-first world. The first segment explores the core principles of WCAG, emphasizing the POUR frameworkPerceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robustand their practical applications in web development. The paper also examines the three levels of WCAG compliance (A, AA, AAA) and provides insights into their relevance across diverse user scenarios. In the context of user-centric design, the research highlights strategies for creating inclusive interfaces that cater to a wide range of disabilities, including visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments. By leveraging empathy-driven approaches, iterative prototyping, and inclusive design patterns, developers can craft solutions that prioritize accessibility without compromising usability. Mobile accessibility forms the next focal point, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the proliferation of smartphones and tablets. The study outlines best practices for designing responsive, touch-friendly interfaces and ensuring compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers, voice assistants, and magnification tools.The paper emphasizes the importance of user testing, combining automated tools with real-world feedback from individuals with disabilities to identify gaps in accessibility and refine solutions. By adopting a cyclical process of evaluation, feedback, and improvement, organizations can align their digital platforms with WCAG standards while delivering exceptional user experiences. Ultimately, this research underscores the need for continuous learning and adaptation to meet evolving technological and user requirements. Enhancing web accessibility is not merely a regulatory obligation but a commitment to inclusivity, equity, and universal usability in the digital age.