How can our repo better accommodate contributors who use assistive tech for code editing and reviewing?

[YashSmithh]

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what will be the ways to make our repository more inclusive for contributors using assistive technologies like screen readers or voice control. What barriers exist during code editing, reviewing, or navigation?

[CollatzConjecture]

code review is the biggest barrier, screen readers can't easily map inline comments to specific lines, main fixes:

1. Include line numbers in comments: "Line 47: use const not let"
2. Alt text for diagrams/screenshots
3. Descriptive link text, not "click here"
4. Use proper headers in docs (##, ###)

also avoid generic names like utils.js and deep nesting.

[ronams03]

Hey there! Making your GitHub repo welcoming for contributors using assistive tech, like screen readers or voice control, is a fantastic goal, and it’s all about creating an inclusive environment where everyone can jump in and contribute comfortably. Start by sprucing up your README.md with clear, semantic Markdown—think proper headings and simple language—so it’s a breeze for screen readers like NVDA or VoiceOver to navigate. A solid CONTRIBUTING.md file is your friend here too; lay out the steps for submitting issues or pull requests in plain, jargon-free terms, and maybe even toss in a tip about using GitHub’s “focus mode” for editing, which plays nicely with assistive tools. Adding a CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md that emphasizes inclusivity and encourages reporting accessibility hiccups shows you’re serious about welcoming everyone.

On the GitHub side, use descriptive labels like “accessibility” or “bug” on issues and PRs to help folks using assistive tech quickly grasp what’s going on. Turn on the Discussions feature for casual chats—it’s screen reader-friendly and great for brainstorming. When it comes to code, nudge contributors toward clear commit messages and PR descriptions, like “Fixed screen reader issue on navigation” instead of “Tweaked stuff.” Suggest tools like VS Code with the GitHub Repositories extension, which works well with assistive tech, or point folks to GitHub’s browser-based editing for quick changes. Finally, encourage consistent code formatting with tools like Prettier to keep things clean and predictable, making it easier for everyone to dive into the codebase.

[Satyam6024]

Okay So here are some ways to make your repo more Inclusive for Assistive Tech Users

1. Structure Your Markdown Files for Accessibility

• Use semantic headers (#, ##, ###) properly to create a clear document outline—screen readers use these to navigate.
• Avoid long paragraphs. Break content into short, scannable chunks.
• Use descriptive link text:

• ❌ Click here
• ✅ See the contributing guide CONTRIBUTING.md(url)

• Use proper alt text for images in README.md and documentation:

![Screenshot showing successful build badge](build-status.png)

2. Use Accessible Labels in GitHub Workflows

• Label issues and PRs clearly: e.g., good first issue, bug, accessibility, refactor.
• Use meaningful PR titles and descriptions so screen reader users can quickly grasp context.

3. Voice and Screen Reader-Friendly Development Tools

• Offering well-formatted config files (.editorconfig, .prettierrc, etc.) so tools auto-format correctly.
• Avoiding overly complex line structures (e.g., don't nest 5+ ternaries or arrow functions in one line).
• Providing README instructions for using the repo with CLI tools (often preferred by screen reader users over GUI-based tools).

4. Test Accessibility of Docs and Web Components

If your repo includes UI (React, Vue, etc.), you should:

• Run automated a11y checks using tools like axe, Lighthouse, or jest-axe.
• Include keyboard and screen reader navigation testing as part of your CI process.

Final Tips

• Ask for feedback: Create a GitHub Discussion or issue inviting accessibility-focused contributors to share ideas.
• Document accessibility features and standards in your repo: Add an ACCESSIBILITY.md file.
• Assign accessibility champions in your team if possible.

[Suhebdevtechnosys]

Make your repo more inclusive by ensuring:

Clear, semantic documentation (proper headings, alt text, and ARIA labels in docs).

Accessible contribution guidelines with keyboard-friendly workflows.

Readable code reviews using plain language and descriptive commit messages.

Support for screen readers by avoiding ASCII art or unlabelled visuals.

Automated accessibility checks in CI for docs and UI components.

Would you like me to draft a short accessibility checklist for contributors?