---
title: 'Designing Accessible Component Systems from the Ground Up'
description: 'Why accessibility (a11y) should be a first-class citizen in your UI architecture.'
subtitle: 'Keyboard focus management, ARIA patterns, and screen reader testing.'
date: '2024-05-25'
lang: 'en'
---

Accessibility is not a feature you bolt on right before launching; it is an architectural decision.

## Core Tenets

- **Semantic HTML First**: Always use native `<button>`, `<nav>`, and `<dialog>` elements when possible.
- **Focus Rings**: Never use `outline: none` without providing a distinct focus-visible replacement.
- **Color Contrast**: Verify standard 4.5:1 ratios for normal text against varying themes.

```html
<button
  type="button"
  aria-expanded="false"
  aria-controls="menu-dropdown"
  class="focus-visible:ring-2 focus-visible:ring-offset-2"
>
  Menu Options
</button>
```