Web Design

Accessibility that also helps SEO

a11y practices that improve UX and rankings.

2 min read

Accessibility isn't "for a few"

It's not only for people with disabilities.
It's for everyone using your site:

  • in sunlight
  • on mobile
  • on a slow connection
  • while distracted
  • on a small screen
If it works well in difficult conditions → it works well for everyone.

And that increases engagement → which improves SEO.


1) Contrast & readability

If a user can't read, they can't continue.

So:

  • Strong contrast
  • Comfortable font sizes
  • Consistent spacing and line-height
Readability = longer stay. Longer stay = positive SEO signal.

2) Content that can be scanned

Users don't read — they scan.

So:

  • Short paragraphs
  • Headings with meaning
  • Bullet points where possible
  • No text walls
If reading feels like effort → they leave.

3) Clear focus & keyboard flow

Interfaces shouldn't rely only on a mouse.

  • Visible focus states
  • Buttons usable with Enter/Space
  • No trap inside menus or modals
This is effortless action.

4) Alt text that conveys meaning (not keywords)

Alt is not an SEO trick.
It's context.

Bad:

"website nextjs designer agency webpage"

Good:

"Example UI with clear hierarchy and visible primary action"

Google doesn't see the image.
It understands the intent.


5) Avoid hidden friction

Small things break flow:

  • Placeholder instead of label
  • Buttons too close = mis-taps
  • Animations before content loads = feels like "delay"
Accessibility is not kindness. It's removing friction.

Bottom Line:

Accessibility isn't about compliance.
It's about effortless interaction.

Ease → engagement → conversions → SEO gains.

Related notes