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Although assistive technologies like screen readers are intended to make it easier for people with disabilities to use the internet, many websites and mobile applications do not work properly with them. This is usually due not to the malfunction of the assistive equipment, but to the large number of inappropriate websites. As a result, users encounter barriers that prevent them from fully utilizing online services and information. Therefore, owners of domains and mobile applications should regularly analyze their published content for accessibility.
How do assistive technologies for people with disabilities work?
Assistive technologies These are tools that allow people with disabilities to use the internet on an equal basis with other users. Their functionality varies depending on the type of device:
- screen readers enable blind or visually impaired people to read content on the screen by converting text to speech,
- screen magnifiers make it easier for people with impaired vision to read text and recognize graphic elements thanks to the ability to significantly enlarge the image,
- Braille devices convert text from the screen into the Braille alphabet, enabling blind people to read by touch,
- mice for people with mobility limitations are controlled, for example, by head movement,
- specialized keyboards can be operated, among others, with one hand.
Problems resulting from inaccessible websites and applications
Lack of compatibility of websites and applications with assistive technologies leads to digital exclusion for millions of people worldwide. For example, dynamic elements like pop-ups are often invisible to screen readers – if the content is not visible elsewhere on the page, the user loses access to important information.
Assistive Technology – WCAG Guidelines
WCAG guidelines describe what a website should contain so that users can fully utilize its functionality using assistive technologies.. The guidelines include, among others: providing alternative access to content, e.g. through film subtitles. Thanks to these features, users using screen readers will be able to understand the content in the video. The standard also regulates the rules for structuring content – it is important to use H1, H2, and H3 headings and bullet points in an orderly manner. Furthermore, websites should provide:
- correct navigation using all types of devices,
- compatibility with various assistive technologies, such as screen readers and Braille devices,
- compatibility with all types of software.
Reasons for incompatibility with assistive technologies
Lack of compatibility with assistive technologies for people with disabilities It often results from errors in website and application design. One of the most common problems is incorrect labeling of page elements (images, graphics, charts, etc.). A lack of alternative text makes it difficult for blind people to understand what the graphics represent. Incorrect heading structure also affects the performance of screen readers. Equally common errors include:
- no audio or text messages informing about changes on the website,
- unlabeled buttons,
- incorrect use of ARIA roles – may disrupt communication between the website and the assistive technology,
- no possibility to move between elements using the keyboard,
- no option to change contrast or font size,
- incorrect encoding (e.g. incorrectly marked lang attribute, which signals to the reader what language the content is written in).
How can the SAT tool help solve the problem?
The SAT program allows for automatic verification of websites and applications for compliance with WCAG, W3C, and ADA. This ensures that all assistive technologies will function properly. The tool’s key features include 24/7 domain and application monitoring, report generation, error reporting, and problem-solving support.
Implementing SAT is an investment in accessibility and formal protection against financial penalties!
