Are You an Indie Dev? Let’s Talk About Accessibility
So, you’ve built an app. Maybe it looks good, it runs smoothly, and it does something useful or fun. That’s exciting. But here’s the big question almost no one asks: can everyone use it?
That’s what accessibility is about. Accessibility means your app, website, or tool can be used by as many people as possible, including people with disabilities.
What does “accessibility” really mean?
When we talk about accessibility, we’re talking about how easy it is for people with different abilities to use your product. Here are a few examples:
· Blind or low-vision users often use screen readers. A screen reader speaks out everything on the screen. If your app isn’t set up correctly, the screen reader can’t “see” your buttons, menus, or content. That makes your app impossible to use.
· People with ADHD or other neurodiverse conditions may need simpler layouts, clear instructions, and predictable flows. A confusing design can make them give up before they finish.
· People with mobility challenges may not use a mouse. They might rely on a keyboard or voice commands. If your app can’t be navigated without a mouse, they’re locked out.
Accessibility is not just for people with permanent disabilities. Think about someone using your app on a cracked screen, or in bright sunlight, or while holding a baby in one arm. Accessible design helps everyone.
Why should you care?
Because accessibility problems turn away real users. Imagine launching your app and hearing:
· I couldn’t sign up because the button wasn’t labeled.
· I got lost on the page and couldn’t figure out how to check out.
· I tried your app with VoiceOver, and it didn’t read anything.
That’s not just one lost user. That’s a review that others will see, or a word-of-mouth story that spreads. Accessibility is about avoiding those problems and making sure people can actually enjoy the thing you worked so hard to build.
Isn’t this expensive?
It can be if you go to the big firms. They sell large packages, require contracts, and often charge thousands of dollars. That makes sense for huge companies, but it’s not realistic for indie devs or small teams.
The truth is, you don’t need a giant contract. You just need a real user who understands accessibility to sit down with your app and tell you what works and what doesn’t.
Who am I?
I’ve been blind since birth. I’m also neurodivergent. That means I rely on accessibility tools every single day to use technology. On top of that, I’m a developer myself, so I know how apps are built and how to translate accessibility feedback into fixes you can actually use.
When I test your product, you’re not just getting someone pointing out problems. You’re getting a clear picture of what it’s like to use your app in the real world, plus practical guidance on how to improve it.
How does my testing work?
· We meet on Zoom for one hour.
· I use your app, website, or chatbot live while you watch.
· I talk through the experience in real time, showing you what’s easy, what’s confusing, and what blocks me.
· You get immediate, actionable feedback you can use right away.
Normally these sessions are $50. For the next two weeks, they’re only $25 so that indie developers and small teams can take advantage.
What do you walk away with?
· Real-world insight from someone who uses accessibility tools every day
· A clear list of barriers and frustrations your users might face
· Straightforward recommendations you can act on immediately
· A stronger product that feels better for all users, not just people with disabilities
Ready to see how accessible your app really is?
If you want to make your app, website, or chatbot more usable, now is the time.
· Book your usability testing session today for only $25: https://calendly.com/tayarndt/general-consultation?month=2025-09
· Not ready yet? Schedule a free consultation and let’s talk about your project first: https://calendly.com/tayarndt/general-consultation?month=2025-09
Final thought: Accessibility is simply making sure people can use what you’ve built. It’s not extra. It’s not only for big companies. It’s what turns a “cool app” into something people can actually enjoy and share.