WebAIM - Web Accessibility In Mind

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Re: Checking color contrast, keyboard focus and webpage look/ARIA as a blind user

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From: Tim Harshbarger
Date: Feb 15, 2013 8:39AM

Unless someone else knows of another method, I would recommend just reading the HTML, CSS, and Javascript. Inspecting the DOM can also be useful.

Another option is to make a virtue of necessity. My environment might differ from yours, but I'll often meet with the people creating or maintaining the user interface and walk through it with them. I'll do things like teach them how to check the colour contrast and keyboard navigation. We also will discuss the parts of the user interface, how they work, and what they do. Basically, I walk them through the mental processes of evaluating the user interface. It provides opportunities to educate them on aspects of accessibility they don't know. It also gives us an opportunity to discuss different solutions. Sometimes, there are limitations on what the team can do which can alter what kinds of solutions will work best for the situation.

I think this more active style of engagement with the designers and developers tends to lead to better results. They learn more about accessibility. They get some insight into the evaluation process. And working together that closely leads to them being more willing to drop by or call if they have any questions. Well, actually, I have even had a few people stop me in public to ask accessibility questions.

Thanks,
Tim