Optimizing Your Site for Usability and Accessibility

Accessibility and usability are essential to creating a digital experience that works for everyone. These guides support Harvard's commitment to inclusive, high-quality website experiences. Editors and site builders can use them to make thoughtful decisions about content, layout, and interaction. These choices go beyond compliance and promote visitor engagement.

Improve Clarity, Structure, and Access Across Your Site

HarvardSites provides flexible and accessible components to display your website content. These guides show you our recommended best practices on how to use them. Each one focuses on a real-world use case, with clear steps and examples that help you support all users across devices and abilities.

Design Clear Page Structures for All Users

Help users scan, read, and navigate your pages by choosing layouts that reflow clearly and support assistive tech.

Keep CTA Link Text Clear and Actionable

Use link text that tells users what to expect, avoid vague language like “click here” or “learn more.”

Make FAQ Pages Easy to Scan

Choose structured components like Accordions or FAQ Lists to organize questions for readability and access.

Make Links Stand Out with Clear Language and Placement

Help users follow links by writing clear labels and placing them close to the content they relate to.

Use Content Patterns that Support Accessibility

Use headings, real lists, and structured spacing. Avoid empty paragraphs or formatting used only for layout.

Write Alt Text That Adds Value

Support screen reader users by writing meaningful alt text, or indicating when the image is decorative.

Need help?

Get support designing for usability and accessibility

Not sure which component to use or how to structure your content? We’re here to help. Reach out to the Harvard Web Publishing team or browse real-world examples to get inspired.

Explore Component Examples
See also: