World IA Day 2019 — accessibility tips for Information Architects

Check out our latest infographic. This one celebrates World Information Architecture Day and this year’s topic ‘Designing for Difference’.

World IA Day 2019 is all about digital inclusion, so we decided to list a few key accessibility aspects that should be considered at the information architecture stage of any project.

If would prefer to read the tips in a regular format, then scroll past the infographic.

Layout and colours

Colour improves navigation and the organisation of sections on your website, but don’t rely on it as your only means to convey visual information. “Use colour to highlight or complement what is already visible”, says accessibility specialist Jesse Hausler. You should also group related links visually, instead of simply using a heading, and pick your images and icons carefully.

Struture

Failing to define your product’s structure at the information architecture stage will inevitably lead to designs that don’t work properly. Pay special attention to your headings (which make a huge difference in how users scan webpages, for example) and categorise elements according to WAI-ARIA, the Accessible Rich Internet Applications.

Navigation

Invisible or uncontrollable navigational elements are a general problem, but disabled users are especially affected. “Uncovering navigation shouldn’t be a major task,” says Jakob Nielsen, referring to the issue of invisible navigation. Similarly, any navigational element that moves or bounces — such as rollovers that launch/block content and elements that spin or rotate — will ruin your product’s usability and increase frustration.

Links

Ensure your links are easy to understand and serve a clear purpose. Even if you need to repeat wording on links or buttons, make sure they remain unique for users of assistive technology by using hidden tags — don’t forget to make this clear in your wireframe!

Taxonomy

Consistency is key when working on different versions of the same digital product, so make sure you start by creating a taxonomy and documenting a copy inventory to keep your headings, page titles and labels consistent across the board. Also, make sure you’re using clear language that is easy to understand so your users can make informed choices.

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