Web accessibility is built on four key principles that ensure websites are usable by everyone. These principles are known by the acronym POUR, which stands for Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. Let’s break them down with simple examples:
Perceivable
Information on a website must be presented in ways that all users can perceive. This means:
- Text alternatives for non-text content (like images or videos)
- Subtitles for videos
- Easy-to-read fonts and colors
Operable
Website features must be easy to use. This includes:
- Being able to navigate the site with a keyboard or voice commands
- Giving users enough time to read and use content
- Not designing content in a way that could cause seizures
Understandable
Information and the operation of the user interface must be understandable. For example:
- Clear instructions and feedback for users
- Predictable navigation and labels throughout the site
- Assistance for correcting and avoiding mistakes
Robust
Content must be robust enough to be reliably interpreted by a wide variety of user agents, including assistive technologies. This means:
- Using clean, standard HTML/CSS
- Making sure content can be accessed with different devices and browsers
- Ensuring that future technologies will be able to access the content
By adhering to these principles, websites can create an inclusive environment accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. For insights on improving web accessibility, visit our Web Design & UX insights page.
Discover more about creating accessible digital spaces in our Emerging Technologies section.
At TrustMedia, ensuring digital accessibility is at the core of our services. From Web Design & Development to Digital Marketing, we incorporate the POUR principles to make your digital presence inclusive and accessible. Explore our services to learn more.