Purpose #
This article explains how Shopstars ensures that Shopify stores are designed and built with accessibility and compliance in mind. It covers accessibility standards, technical implementations, compliance frameworks, and QA processes. Clients should use this as the reference for understanding how accessibility is integrated into every stage of store design and development.
Why Accessibility Matters #
Accessibility ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can interact with a store effectively. Beyond inclusivity, it also reduces legal risks—many regions enforce accessibility compliance through legislation such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S. and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) globally. Accessible stores reach wider audiences, improve SEO, and build trust with customers.
Standards and Frameworks #
Shopstars designs to meet or exceed WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards, which are widely recognized as the global benchmark. These standards define requirements for text contrast, keyboard navigation, alt text, semantic markup, and more. Where clients operate in regulated industries or regions, additional compliance frameworks such as ADA or EN 301 549 (EU) are considered.
Technical Implementations #
Text and Typography
- Minimum contrast ratios of 4.5:1 for body text and 3:1 for large headings.
- Font sizes defined with scalable units (rem or clamp()) to support browser text resizing.
- Clear visual focus indicators for links and interactive elements.
Images and Media
- Alt text added to all product and marketing images.
- Decorative images marked with empty alt attributes to avoid unnecessary screen reader noise.
- Video players include captions and controls accessible via keyboard.
Navigation and Structure
- Semantic HTML used for headings, lists, and navigation menus.
- ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes applied to interactive components when native HTML is insufficient.
- Skip links implemented for keyboard users to bypass repetitive content.
Forms and Checkout
- Labels properly associated with input fields.
- Error messages written clearly, with visual and programmatic indicators.
- Checkout flow tested for full keyboard navigability and screen reader compatibility.
QA and Testing #
Accessibility QA is performed alongside functional QA. Shopstars uses:
- Automated Tools: Axe, WAVE, and Lighthouse audits for baseline testing.
- Manual Testing: Keyboard-only navigation and screen reader walkthroughs using VoiceOver (macOS/iOS) and NVDA (Windows).
- Performance Cross-Checks: Ensuring accessibility does not conflict with speed optimization.
Accessibility issues are documented in Basecamp and corrected before launch. For retainer clients, periodic accessibility audits are included in maintenance cycles.
Compliance and Legal Considerations #
Accessibility is not optional in many jurisdictions. Failing to meet accessibility standards can result in lawsuits or fines. By aligning with WCAG 2.1 AA, Shopstars ensures that stores are legally defensible and accessible to the broadest possible audience. Clients operating in regions with stricter requirements are advised on additional measures.
Client Responsibilities #
Clients are expected to provide accessible content in addition to technical compliance. This includes:
- Writing descriptive alt text for new images added post-launch.
- Providing transcripts or captions for any new video content.
- Avoiding text embedded in images, which screen readers cannot interpret.
Shopstars provides training or documentation where needed to help client teams maintain accessibility standards after launch.
Summary #
Accessibility and compliance at Shopstars are grounded in WCAG 2.1 AA standards, covering typography, images, navigation, and checkout flows. Technical implementations are validated through automated and manual QA. Compliance reduces legal risk, expands reach, and demonstrates inclusivity. With Shopstars’ structured approach, clients can be confident their stores are usable by all customers and compliant with international standards.
