#WEB ACCESSIBILITY SCREEN READER HOW TO#

However, they can also be implemented through the browser. Screen readers can vary based on the operating system you are using. These commands are prompted through keyboard shortcuts or mouse actions, like scrolling and clicking.Īlthough basic screen readers will not help blind users navigate a computer, screen readers with additional features can give individuals with visual impairments much more independence. This is why it’s extremely important to utilize semantic HTML code and appropriate WAI-ARIA attributes.Ī visually impaired user will use a combination of screen reader commands and operating system commands to accomplish the many tasks a computer is capable of performing. The screen reader provides a text-to-speech (TTS) experience for the user to translate the information on the screen into speech, which can be heard through speakers, headphones or braille. Producing accessible websites is both equitable and good for business. According to the National Institute of Health, about 1 in 30 Americans over the age of 40 will experience visual impairment. More users than you might expect are using some kind of assistive device.

This article will guide you through how to set up and use a screen reader in order to assess the web accessibility of various websites, including your own.

We as designers and developers know that not everyone sees, hears, or reads content in the same way.Ī screen reader is an assistive technology that is used by individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or need additional assistance navigating a website. Creating a good user experience requires us to think carefully about the diverse needs and devices of our users.

#WEB ACCESSIBILITY SCREEN READER HOW TO#

Web accessibility screen reader