Equitable web design and build practices create experiences that are inclusive, functional and enjoyable for all users. Here we look at principles to guide equitable design and some ways to implement them into your build.
Accessibility: Building for all abilities
Accessibility is about ensuring websites are usable by individuals with diverse abilities. We recommend and target the WCAG AA accessibility standard as a benchmark for creating inclusive digital experiences. This involves practical steps like adding alternative text to images so that users of screen readers can understand visual content and ensuring keyboard navigation for those who don’t use a mouse. Tools like the WebAIM Contrast Checker confirm that font and background colours have sufficient contrast to be readable. By making these adjustments, websites can accommodate a wide range of needs and create a more equitable experience.
Inclusivity: Welcoming everyone
Inclusivity means designing websites with a diverse audience in mind. Think about different languages, cultural contexts, device age and size and internet speeds to ensure the content and interface are inclusive and relevant. Language options, legible fonts and intuitive navigation are simple but effective ways to make users feel welcome. Thoughtful design helps ensure no one feels excluded, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Elegant degradation: Supporting older technology
Not everyone has access to the latest devices or software. Designing and building only for the latest models excludes users with older devices. Websites should work on older devices and can be made to do so by employing techniques such as elegant degradation. For example, if an animation doesn’t load, ensure the user sees a static image instead. Or if a custom font fails to display, ensure a legible font is used as an alternative. We typically test on a point version backward as well as the most up-to-date version of all modern browsers, but since no website is the same, we ensure we consider the devices and browsers our audiences will most likely be using from our planning stage.
Responsive Design: Adapting to every device
With users accessing websites on everything from desktops to smartphones, responsive design is essential. This means creating layouts that adjust fluidly to different screen sizes and orientations to ensure that the content remains readable and the navigation remains intuitive. Techniques such as flexible grid systems, responsive images and styling rules based on device characteristics help achieve responsiveness. We test across many devices and screen resolutions to catch inconsistencies and refine the user experience. By prioritising responsiveness, websites deliver a seamless and engaging experience regardless of the device being used.
Lightweight Performance: Optimising speed
Large files can significantly slow websites down, especially for users with limited bandwidth or data plans. To address this, use the most appropriate formats, compress images to reduce their size and optimise code by removing unnecessary elements. Implementing techniques that delay the loading of images and videos until they are needed means content appears only when it is about to come into view. This approach saves bandwidth and improves speed. These steps enhance the overall user experience and make the web more accessible for those with slower internet connections.
Content Clarity: Guiding users effectively
Content should be clear, concise and easy to navigate to ensure users can quickly find what they need. Organise information into logical, intuitive sections. Use clear typographic hierarchies, such as distinct font sizes and weights, to highlight key messages. Visual cues like bold text for emphasis or colour contrasts can help draw attention to critical areas. Breaking up text with headings, bullet points and consistent spacing creates a structured flow that feels approachable rather than overwhelming. Visual hierarchies not only improve readability but also enhance accessibility, making it easier for screen readers to interpret the page.
Equitable web design aims to ensure the web is an inclusive space where everyone has the same opportunity to access information and services. Focusing on these principles and taking small, practical steps helps create online experiences that include and empower everyone.
If you would like support to improve your website, please contact us here. We'd love to help!