Accessible by Default: Crafting Modern UI Patterns That Just Work
taught by: Patrick Fox
Session Summary
Modern browsers now offer powerful native HTML and CSS tools that make building accessible, elegant interfaces simpler than ever - yet many teams still reach for complex custom solutions that create unnecessary friction and accessibility barriers. This talk explores practical, platform-native approaches to common UI challenges, leaving attendees with concrete techniques for creating interfaces that are simpler, more robust, and more accessible by design.
Description
Modern web development offers a wealth of native HTML and CSS tools that make building accessible, elegant interfaces simpler than ever - yet many teams still reach for complex custom solutions that introduce unnecessary friction and maintenance burden. This talk explores practical strategies for leveling up your UI craft with an accessibility-first mindset, covering everything from common ARIA anti-patterns, to the hidden complexity of product cards and carousel implementations that create real barriers for users. We'll then shift to what's possible when we lean into the platform: a hands-on demo of the native HTML Dialog and Popover APIs - now fully supported by modern browsers - and a look at how CSS Anchor Positioning enables elegant, accessible layouts without the hacks. Whether you're debugging an existing component or building something new, this talk will leave you with concrete techniques for writing UI that is simpler, more robust, and more accessible by design.
Practical Skills
- Recognize and avoid common accessibility pitfalls.
- Harness the power of native HTML and CSS for accessible experiences.
- Build accessible UI with confidence and craft .