Robust
Summary
Principle 4, Robust, of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) focuses on ensuring that web content is robust enough to be reliably interpreted by a wide variety of user agents, including assistive technologies. This principle is crucial for compatibility with current and future technologies.
Why It's Important:
Robustness ensures that as technology evolves, web content remains accessible. This principle is essential for users who rely on various assistive tools and devices to access the web. It addresses the need for content to be interpretable by a wide range of technologies, preventing exclusion due to technical limitations.
Examples and Scenarios:
- Clean HTML/CSS: Using standard-compliant HTML and CSS ensures content can be interpreted by different browsers and assistive tools.
- ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) Use: Implementing ARIA roles and properties enhances the compatibility of dynamic content and complex user interfaces with assistive technologies.
- Testing Across Devices and Browsers: Regular testing of web content on various platforms and browsers to ensure consistent accessibility.
How to Comply:
Follow web standards for HTML, CSS, and scripting languages, use ARIA attributes where necessary, and continually test for compatibility across a range of browsers, devices, and assistive technologies.
Exceptions:
- Cutting-edge Technology: Sometimes, the use of very new or experimental technologies might pose challenges for current accessibility standards, but it's important to strive for as much compatibility as possible.
- Legacy Systems: Older systems or content might not fully meet these robustness standards but should be updated or supplemented where feasible.