ADA quick audit

What this is

This is a fast ADA website check you can run this week. ADA is a civil rights law about access for people with disabilities. Many organizations use the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, called WCAG, to guide web practices. Confirm what applies to you with your attorney or compliance advisor.

Use this checklist to catch common blockers before a full review. Assistive technology means tools like screen readers and voice control. I kept each item short, with what to check and why it matters.

Structure and content

• Check each page uses one main heading and nested subheadings in order, because it creates a clear outline for readers and screen readers.
• Check the page title describes the page, because users hear titles first in screen readers and see them in tabs.
• Check link text says the action or target, because Click here and Learn more are not helpful out of context.
• Check images have useful alt text or are marked decorative when they add no meaning, because non visual users need the same info.
• Check color contrast between text and background is strong, because low contrast hides words for many people.
• Check zooming does not hide content or block actions, because some users enlarge text to read.

Interaction and media

• Check every form field has a visible label and a programmatic label, because screen readers announce labels tied in code.
• Check required fields are identified before submit, because surprises at submit cause errors and frustration.
• Check error messages say what went wrong and how to fix it, because clear guidance speeds completion.
• Check all features work with only a keyboard, because some people do not use a mouse.
• Check the keyboard focus outline is easy to see, because it shows where you are on the page.
• Check there is a Skip to main content link, because it saves time for keyboard users on every page.
• Check videos have captions and a transcript, and audio has a transcript, because not everyone can hear or see media.
• Check moving or auto playing content can be paused or stopped, because motion can distract or make pages unusable.

If you want help, I handle ADA Accessibility under Security & Compliance. I can review your site against common issues, outline practical fixes, and support your team as you improve access.