Screen Reader Audit Case Study
Overview
This project aimed to evaluate how accessible a small business website is for screen reader users and provide actionable recommendations.
The Problem
The Carter real estate website presents significant accessibility challenges for visually impaired users who rely on screen readers like NVDA and JAWS. Key issues include missing alt text for property images, making it impossible for screen readers to convey visual information; map elements that are difficult to navigate using keyboard controls; and agent photos that lack descriptive labels beyond a name. Additionally, hidden navigation options are inaccessible through standard keyboard tab controls, further complicating site usability.
When tested using NVDA, the website provided an incomplete and disjointed user experience, akin to viewing it through foggy glasses. These accessibility gaps hinder visually impaired users from browsing properties, accessing crucial information, or making informed decisions.
Testing
Personas
To ensure the Carter real estate website meets the needs of all users, I developed personas representing diverse user groups. These personas are based on individuals who may encounter accessibility barriers, including those who rely on screen readers, have limited mobility, or prefer keyboard navigation over traditional input methods. By testing with these personas in mind, I aim to identify and address specific usability challenges, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Schoolteacher
Maria Sanchez - 45
Maria is a visually impaired schoolteacher who relies on her JAWS screen reader for all online activities. She is searching for a new home to accommodate her growing family and needs a website that provides clear alt text for property photos and an intuitive navigation system. Maria often uses keyboard shortcuts and listens for descriptive cues to make informed decisions.
First-time homebuyer
Greg Thompson - 32
Greg is a first-time homebuyer with limited fine motor skills due to a neurological condition. He primarily uses NVDA alongside his keyboard for web navigation. Greg needs a site that allows him to explore properties without relying on a mouse, including accessible forms, clear tab order, and properly labeled interactive elements.
Retired librarian
Eleanor Miller - 68
Eleanor is a retired librarian with mild visual impairments due to age. She uses a combination of browser magnification tools and voice navigation software to interact with websites. Eleanor values websites with large, high-contrast fonts, simplified layouts, and descriptions that help her understand visual content like maps and property listings.
Evaluate The Accessibility
To evaluate the accessibility of the Carter real estate website, I conducted a thorough audit using NVDA, a popular screen reader for visually impaired users. The testing focused on core user interactions, including navigating property listings, interacting with maps, and using keyboard controls.
By simulating real-world scenarios, such as browsing without sight or a mouse, I identified critical barriers to accessibility, including missing alt text, difficult navigation, and inadequate labeling. This process highlighted the importance of designing with inclusivity in mind and informed actionable recommendations to enhance the user experience for all visitors.
Conclusion
Takeaways
This accessibility audit of the Carter real estate website provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by visually impaired users. By collaborating with the business owner, I was able to present detailed findings, offer actionable solutions, and demonstrate the software and tools essential for inclusive web design. The discussion emphasized how personas like Maria, Greg, and Eleanor might struggle with inaccessible features, from missing alt text to keyboard navigation barriers.
While many issues can be addressed through thoughtful design updates, industry-wide challenges, such as the lack of descriptive data in MLS listings, highlight the need for broader efforts toward accessibility. This experience reinforced the importance of designing for all users and underscored the role of collaboration in creating meaningful, inclusive changes.
