JavaScript, when used properly has the potential to offer users the best, accessible experiences. If not implemented well, it can significantly harm accessibility. In a recent post about the Guardian and accessibility, we learned that the media firm may have overlooked the importance of JavaScript to a smooth user accessibility experience. We have now discovered another publication group that places little thought into how it applies JavaScript: Johnston Press Digital Publishing.
If you check out how the page appears on Google News, you’ll notice the content and functionality issues that make accessibility difficult. Surely, the media group should occasionally check how the content appears. They would then do something about the different considerations for JavaScript applications.
JavaScript provides a content creator with good semantics that allow the media group to use the right elements for the right job. In this case, Johnston Press Digital Publishing would make their content appear neater by making use of headings, paragraphs, buttons, and elements.
In addition, JavaScript will allow the group to make sure the content is available as text, either directly as text content, the right text labels for form elements, or text alternatives like alt text for images.
The principle behind JavaScript is that it should be utilized to enhance functionality rather than build it in altogether for the greatest outcomes. Although it is understood that this is not always possible, fundamental functions should ideally work without JavaScript.
Before creating material for Google News, the media company should first assess what the visitors require. It’s tempting to tailor a news product to your preferences and wants, but you won’t be the one who uses it in the end, or, even worse, you could be the only one who uses it. Johnston Press Digital Publishing should put more thought on its reliance on JavaScript to improve accessibility.
