An accessible design system benefits not only users with disabilities but also improves overall usability, making products easier to navigate for everyone. By considering factors like color contrast, keyboard navigation, readable typography, and assistive technology support, you create a more seamless experience across different devices and user needs. This design system is built with accessibility as a core principle, following WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards to ensure inclusive experiences for all users.

WCAG 2.1 Level AA Compliance

This mobile starter kit design system is built with WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliance as a core requirement. All components are designed to work seamlessly across iOS (VoiceOver), Android (TalkBack), and web (screen readers) with comprehensive accessibility features.

Perceivable

Operable

Understandable

Robust

Compliance Status

Architecture

Cross-Platform Approach

// Web uses ARIA attributes
const webProps = {
  'aria-label': accessibilityLabel,
  'aria-describedby': describedBy,
  role: 'button'
};

// React Native uses accessibility props
const nativeProps = {
  accessibilityLabel,
  accessibilityHint,
  accessibilityRole: 'button'
};

// Platform selection
const accessibilityProps = Platform.select({
  web: webProps,
  default: nativeProps
});

Design Tokens

Our three-tier token system ensures consistent, accessible color combinations:

/* Reference tokens (base colors) */
--ref-neutral-950: 0 0% 5.88%;
--ref-secondary-500: 245.03 100% 64.9%;

/* System tokens (semantic layer) - WCAG AA compliant */
--sys-text-body: var(--ref-neutral-950);        /* 4.5:1+ contrast */
--sys-text-disabled: var(--ref-neutral-600);    /* 4.5:1+ contrast */
--sys-surface-neutral-0: var(--ref-neutral-50);

/* Component tokens (component-specific) */
/* All combinations tested for WCAG AA compliance */

Resources and Tools

Testing Tools

• WCAG 2.1 Guidelines

• ARIA Authoring Practices Guide

• WebAIM Resources

Continuous Improvement

Accessibility is an ongoing process. We regularly:

• Review and test components with real users

• Update patterns in line with new WCAG guidelines

• Gather feedback from the accessibility community

• Improve documentation and implementation guides

This design system prioritises inclusive design, ensuring that all users can effectively interact with digital products regardless of ability or assistive technology.