File naming significantly impacts accessibility because screen readers rely on file names to convey information clearly to users with visual impairments. A good file name acts as an accurate label, providing essential context independently without requiring the user to view the file contents visually. Clear, descriptive names are essential; vague names like 'document1.txt' or 'image.png' offer no meaningful information to a screen reader user, while names such as 'Q3-sales-report-2024.pdf' or 'employee-handbook.pdf' directly convey purpose and content instantly.

In practice, this is vital when organizing shared documents. For instance, in a workplace drive, a file named 'team-project-proposal-final-approved.docx' tells the user immediately what the document is, unlike 'draft_v6_FINAL_revised.docx'. Similarly, descriptive image filenames on a website (e.g., 'red-apple-fruit-basket.jpg' instead of 'IMG_5678.jpg') are necessary when alt-text might be missing or is read out sequentially after the file name. Platforms like SharePoint, Google Drive, and website content management systems benefit.

Good naming enhances efficiency and independence for screen reader users, reducing frustration and navigation time. Limitations include reliance on user consistency and lack of enforcement in many systems. Ethically, descriptive naming is a cornerstone of digital inclusion, ensuring equal access to information. It's a low-effort, high-impact practice supporting universal design principles. Organizations committed to accessibility standardize naming conventions to foster this inclusivity.