How to Build an ADA-compliant App

In 2018, approximately 12.6% of the U.S. civilian population had some form of disability, highlighting the importance of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access to digital platforms. Ensuring ADA compliance in app development is crucial, as non-compliance can lead to legal challenges and lost business opportunities. Developers are advised to incorporate accessibility from the start by understanding ADA guidelines, using semantic HTML, providing alternative text, and enabling keyboard navigation. AI and automation tools, like testRigor and Deque axe DevTools, can significantly aid in ADA compliance by performing automated accessibility testing, offering remediation suggestions, and integrating with development workflows. These tools enhance the inclusivity of digital content, reduce support costs, and ensure legal compliance. While AI offers efficiencies, manual testing and real user feedback remain essential to verifying accessibility, contributing to a more inclusive digital experience and opening new market opportunities.