Accessibility
At Roots, we believe that technology should be accessible to everyone. We're committed to creating an inclusive experience that works for users of all abilities.
Our Accessibility Commitment
Roots is designed to be accessible to users with disabilities, including those who use assistive technologies. We strive to meet or exceed accessibility standards and continuously work to improve our platform's accessibility.
Accessibility Features
Our app includes comprehensive accessibility features to ensure everyone can use Roots effectively:
Screen Reader Support
- Compatible with VoiceOver (iOS) and TalkBack (Android)
- Proper semantic markup and ARIA labels
- Descriptive alt text for all images
- Clear navigation announcements
- Logical reading order and focus management
Visual Accessibility
- High contrast mode support
- Adjustable text sizes (Dynamic Type)
- Color-blind friendly design
- Clear visual hierarchy and spacing
- Reduced motion options for animations
Motor Accessibility
- Large touch targets (minimum 44px)
- Gesture alternatives for complex interactions
- Voice control compatibility
- Switch control support
- Customizable interaction timing
Hearing Accessibility
- Closed captions for video content
- Visual notifications and alerts
- Text alternatives for audio content
- Haptic feedback for important actions
- Vibration patterns for notifications
Cognitive Accessibility
- Clear, simple language throughout
- Consistent navigation patterns
- Error prevention and clear feedback
- Minimal distractions and clutter
- Step-by-step guidance for complex tasks
Input Flexibility
- Multiple input methods supported
- Keyboard navigation for all features
- Voice input and dictation support
- Customizable input preferences
- Alternative text entry methods
📋 Accessibility Standards Compliance
Roots is designed to meet or exceed the following accessibility standards:
- WCAG 2.1 Level AA: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
- Section 508: Rehabilitation Act of 1973
- ADA Title III: Americans with Disabilities Act
- EN 301 549: European accessibility standard
- iOS Accessibility Guidelines: Apple's Human Interface Guidelines
- Android Accessibility: Google's Material Design accessibility principles
Testing and Validation
We regularly test our app for accessibility compliance using multiple methods:
🔍 Our Testing Process
- Automated Testing: Regular scans using accessibility testing tools
- Manual Testing: Testing with actual assistive technologies
- User Testing: Feedback from users with disabilities
- Expert Review: Accessibility audits by certified professionals
- Continuous Monitoring: Ongoing accessibility checks during development
Assistive Technology Support
Roots is compatible with a wide range of assistive technologies:
iOS Assistive Technologies
- VoiceOver: Full screen reader support with custom labels
- Switch Control: Complete switch navigation support
- Voice Control: Voice commands for all app functions
- Dynamic Type: Adjustable text sizes throughout the app
- Reduce Motion: Respects user's motion preferences
Android Assistive Technologies
- TalkBack: Comprehensive screen reader integration
- Switch Access: Full switch control compatibility
- Voice Access: Voice navigation support
- Large Text: Scalable text sizes
- High Contrast: Enhanced contrast mode support
Third-Party Assistive Technologies
- Screen Readers: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, TalkBack
- Switch Devices: Various switch control systems
- Voice Recognition: Dragon NaturallySpeaking, built-in OS features
- Magnification: Zoom, Magnifier, and other magnification tools
- Alternative Input: Eye tracking, head pointers, and other input devices
Accessibility Settings
Users can customize their accessibility experience in the app:
In-App Accessibility Settings
- Text Size: Adjust text size from small to extra large
- Contrast: Enable high contrast mode
- Reduced Motion: Minimize animations and transitions
- Haptic Feedback: Customize vibration patterns
- Sound Effects: Enable or disable audio cues
- Focus Indicators: Customize focus highlighting
System Integration
- System Settings: Respects device accessibility settings
- Dynamic Type: Automatically adjusts to user's preferred text size
- Voice Control: Integrates with system voice control features
- Switch Control: Works with system switch control settings
🔄 Continuous Improvement
We're committed to continuously improving our accessibility features. We regularly:
- Review and update accessibility features based on user feedback
- Stay current with accessibility standards and best practices
- Test with new assistive technologies as they become available
- Conduct accessibility audits and implement improvements
- Train our development team on accessibility best practices
📞 Accessibility Support
If you encounter accessibility issues or have suggestions for improvement, we want to hear from you:
- Accessibility Support: accessibility@joinroots.app
- General Support: Contact Us
- Response Time: We prioritize accessibility issues and respond within 24 hours
- Feedback: We welcome suggestions for improving accessibility
Accessibility Roadmap
We're actively working on the following accessibility improvements:
- Enhanced Voice Control: More comprehensive voice command support
- Advanced Switch Control: Improved switch navigation patterns
- Customizable UI: More flexible interface customization options
- Alternative Communication: Support for AAC devices and methods
- Multi-Modal Input: Support for multiple input methods simultaneously
Inclusive by Design
Accessibility isn't just a feature—it's fundamental to how we design and build Roots. We believe that technology should empower everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Thank you for helping us create a more inclusive digital community.