In the world of web accessibility, it’s the little things that make a big difference. And when it comes to ARIA roles, one of the most important little things is to not use deprecated ARIA roles. Deprecated ARIA roles are ARIA roles that are no longer recommended for use. They may still be supported by some browsers, but they are not guaranteed to work in all browsers. This guide will explore the dangers of using deprecated ARIA roles and what to use instead.
Think of your website as a modern city. You want to make sure that all the buildings are up to code and that they are safe for everyone. The same is true for your website. By avoiding the use of deprecated ARIA roles, you can create a more accessible and user-friendly experience for everyone. For a deeper dive into the world of accessibility, see our article on accessibility.
Your Guide to a More Accessible and User-Friendly Website
Fixing the use of deprecated ARIA roles is a simple but important task. Here’s how to do it:
- Identify Your Use of Deprecated ARIA Roles: Use an accessibility testing tool like Creeper to crawl your site and identify any instances of deprecated ARIA roles.
- Remove the Deprecated ARIA Roles from Your Code: The best way to fix this issue is to simply remove the deprecated ARIA roles from your code.
- Use a Modern Alternative: There are a variety of different ways to create a scrolling piece of text without using the marquee element. You can use CSS animations, JavaScript, or a third-party library.
The SEO Power of an Accessible Website
An accessible website is a more successful website. By making your website more accessible, you can improve your user experience, reach a wider audience, and even improve your SEO. For more on the importance of a well-structured website, check out this guide to ARIA roles from the W3C.
Don’t let your website be a relic of the past. By taking the time to avoid the use of deprecated ARIA roles, you can build a more accessible and successful online presence. For more on how to create a winning on-page strategy, see our article on on-page SEO.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are deprecated ARIA roles?
Deprecated ARIA roles are ARIA roles that are no longer recommended for use. They may still be supported by some browsers, but they are not guaranteed to work in all browsers.
Why should I not use deprecated ARIA roles?
You should not use deprecated ARIA roles because they are not guaranteed to work in all browsers. They can also be a major accessibility issue, as they can be difficult for users with low vision to read the scrolling text.
What should I use instead of deprecated ARIA roles?
There are a variety of different ways to create a scrolling piece of text without using the marquee element. You can use CSS animations, JavaScript, or a third-party library.
Ready to bring your website into the 21st century? Start your Creeper audit today and see how you can improve your website’s accessibility.