The four WCAG principles every accessible digital product must meet.
The POUR framework breaks accessibility into four easy questions every designer can ask when reviewing their work.
- Perceivable: Can they see or hear it? Ensure text has high contrast, videos have captions, and images include alt-text.
- Operable: Can they use it? Users should be able to navigate with a keyboard, click with large enough buttons, and not face flickering content.
- Understandable: Can they read it? Use clear language, consistent icons, and predictable layouts so users know what to expect.
- Robust: Does it work on all tech? Code should follow standards and function across browsers, devices, or assistive tools like screen readers.
These four principles are the Foundation of accessibility design. If your design is Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust, you are already on the right path toward WCAG compliance.