What is web readability?
Web readability refers to how easily and efficiently online content can be read and understood by users. It encompasses factors such as text clarity, font choice, layout, and the use of headings, bullet points, and visuals to enhance comprehension.
High web readability ensures that visitors can quickly grasp information, which is crucial for maintaining their engagement and achieving the content’s purpose. It is also important for accessibility, enabling people with varying levels of literacy and those with disabilities to navigate and understand web content effectively. It improves user experience, broadens audience reach, and enhances the effectiveness of online communication.
Elements of web readability
Here are some methods to evaluate and improve web readability:
Readability Scores: Aim for a reading level that suits your target audience. Generally, content written at an School Year 9 reading level is accessible to a broad audience. We’re a big fan of using plain English wherever we can.
Content Structure: Use clear, descriptive headings and subheadings to organise content logically. Keep your paragraphs and sentences concise, to enhance readability. Break up information using bullet points, or numbered lists, to make it easier to scan.
Design and Layout: Choose legible fonts, and ensure sufficient font size and line spacing. Ensure you have adequate contrast between text and background for readability. Use white space effectively to prevent clutter, and improve focus on the content.
User Testing: Gather feedback from real users about their reading experience. Use web analytics tools to track metrics like time on page, bounce rate, and scroll depth to gauge user engagement. If your bounce rate is high, you’ve got relevancy and/or accessibility issues to deal with.
Accessibility: Provide descriptive alt text for images and ensure interactive elements are accessible to screen readers.
Mobile Optimisation: Ensure your website is optimised for mobile devices, as readability can be impacted by smaller screens. With increasingly button-less tech, make sure that links and buttons are easy to tap on mobile devices.
By systematically applying these methods, you can comprehensively assess and improve your website’s readability, ensuring it is user-friendly and accessible to a diverse audience.