Accessibility Checker from Siteimprove
Introduction
Siteimprove is a digital accessibility and quality assurance platform that offers a powerful Chrome extension to help you identify and address accessibility issues. In this article, we will explore how you can effectively use Siteimprove’s Chrome extension to meet accessibility standards.
Accessing Siteimprove Accessibility Checker
Chrome users can go to the Chrome Web Store and search for “Siteimprove Accessibility Checker”.
Understanding Siteimprove’s Chrome Extension
Siteimprove’s Chrome extension is a versatile tool that provides a real-time evaluation of a website’s accessibility and quality. It integrates seamlessly into the Chrome browser, enabling you to access comprehensive insights into potential accessibility barriers while navigating your website or exploring other web pages. The extension empowers you to identify issues promptly, receive detailed reports, and take proactive steps toward improving accessibility.
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Real-Time Accessibility Analysis - After installation, the extension works seamlessly while browsing the web. You can visit your own website or any other page and activate the extension by clicking on the icon. The extension then performs a real-time accessibility analysis of the page, highlighting any potential issues.
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Accessible Elements Indicators - Siteimprove’s Chrome extension employs intuitive indicators to identify accessible and problematic elements on the page. Accessible elements are marked with a green checkmark, while issues are highlighted with an orange triangle, providing a quick visual overview of accessibility status.
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Detailed Accessibility Reports - Clicking on the extension’s icon opens a detailed accessibility report for the current web page. The report categorizes accessibility issues into clear sections, making it easy for you to understand and address each problem. This comprehensive report includes explanations of the issues and suggestions for improvements.
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Evaluating Contrast and Text Readability - One crucial aspect of web accessibility is ensuring sufficient color contrast and text readability. Siteimprove’s extension includes a contrast checker, allowing you to test color combinations and ensure text remains legible for users with visual impairments.
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Identifying Missing Alternative Text - The extension identifies images without alternative text, a common accessibility oversight. You can use this information to add descriptive alternative text, ensuring that users with visual impairments can comprehend the content conveyed by images.
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Keyboard Accessibility and Focus Indicators - Siteimprove’s Chrome extension also evaluates keyboard accessibility and the visibility of focus indicators. It helps you ensure that all interactive elements can be accessed and operated using only a keyboard, enhancing the user experience for those who rely on assistive technologies.
Conclusion
By using Siteimprove’s Chrome extension regularly and integrating accessibility into your web development process, you can contribute to a more inclusive internet, where everyone can access and benefit from online content without barriers.