OUTLINE OF DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Where appropriate Web Accessibility alternatives are to be provided but there are some pitfalls to be avoided. For instance the MS Society's use of grey text on a white background on their Text Only page (click here to view). Another egregious example: readplease.com. Many so-called accessible sites seem to be deficient in one way or another so it seems necessary to check as many as possible so as to learn from their 'mistakes'. However, it is important not to become sidetracked for too long in dealing with this issue as it is still early days as far as accessibility is concerned.
Another important consideration is simplicity. There are many adantages to this approach: faster download times, clarity and ease of use being just a few.
As far as colour is concerned though the individual's colour sense is largely subjective there exist certain universal principles which come into play and research is required on this.
There appear to be entrenched views as to 'traditional' site layout eg., links are displayed in a table at the left of the screen. This may be just a matter of habit largely inculcated by Microsoft's design ethos. The optical centre of the screen may be the best position for primary information.
It appears that some sites claim to conform to the Governments criteria for Accessibility but don't appear to do so (check Gov's recommendations)
As to the format, some observations from classroom practice may be relevent: a few of the disadvantages of Present, Practice, Produce (PPP) can be obviated by a Task-based approach. A fuller exposition can be found HERE