Accessibility isn’t a feature. It’s a foundation.
When you’re hiring someone to redesign your website, you need to make sure it works for everyone, including people with disabilities.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are some key questions to ask your web designer or agency. You don’t need to know all the answers; they do.
Top Questions to Ask Your Web Designer
1. Are you familiar with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)?
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Follow-up: What level do you typically meet—AA or AAA?
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Why it matters: WCAG is the global standard for digital accessibility.
2. How will you ensure my website meets accessibility requirements?
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Follow-up: Do you use accessibility checklists or tools during development?
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Why it matters: Accessibility must be built into design and development from the start.
3. Will the site be tested with assistive technologies like screen readers?
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Follow-up: Can you show me how my site would work for someone using a screen reader?
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Why it matters: Accessibility isn’t just code-deep—it’s about real-world use.
4. Do you include accessibility audits in your process?
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Follow-up: Is manual testing included, or just automated scans?
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Why it matters: Automated tools catch about 30% of issues. Manual testing is essential.
5. How will you ensure my site is keyboard navigable?
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Why it matters: Many users navigate with a keyboard only, not a mouse.
6. Will all images have alt text and videos include captions?
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Why it matters: Visual and audio content must be accessible too.
7. Is your code structured with proper semantic HTML?
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Why it matters: Clean, semantic code helps assistive tech interpret your site correctly.
8. Can you provide a VPAT or Accessibility Conformance Report?
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Why it matters: This is a summary of how accessible your website is.
9. How do you keep up with accessibility standards and updates?
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Why it matters: Accessibility laws and tech are evolving. You want a partner who stays current.
10. Do you involve users with disabilities in your testing process?
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Why it matters: Nothing replaces feedback from lived experience.
Before You Sign That Contract…
Ask for these deliverables:
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A clear plan for accessibility testing
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A post-launch accessibility audit
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Training or documentation for your content team
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A maintenance plan to ensure accessibility is preserved over time
Don’t worry about saying it perfectly. Just ask.
You’re not expected to be the expert. But if your web team can’t answer these questions, they’re probably not the right fit.
Accessibility is a legal requirement in many places, and a moral one everywhere.
Start your redesign on the right foot. Include everyone.
