Accessing Your Web Page With Ease

“The power of the Web is in its universality. Access by everyone regardless of disability is an essential aspect.”

Tim Berners-Lee

10 Short and Sweet Important Accessibility Tips

1. Use proper headings: headings and subheadings will help non-visual users understand how the page is organized and it will be easier for screen reader users to navigate.
2. Know when to use PDF’s: If PDF characteristic isn’t essential then consider using an alternate format such as HTML.
3. Identify language of text: for multi-lingual readers use markup to identify the default language of a document and of any text that deviates from the default.
4. Avoid using tiny fonts: some users are unaware that font sizes can increase so use a reasonable large font size.
5. Respect white space: Adequate white space between lines and blocks of text can provide readers with a clearer interface.
6. Choose a dropdown menu system that works for all users: Ask questions like: Can this menu be operated by keyboard alone? If so, is doing so efficient or does it require dozens or hundreds of keystrokes?
7. Test web pages with a keyboard: try navigating the web page and controlling all its features using the tab key on a keyboard; don’t touch the mouse. This simple test is typically a good indicator of accessibility.
8. Think twice about the words you use: Keep your content simple to read and understand.
9. Provide a transcript: Transcripts benefit all users by allowing them to access content quickly.
10. Test pages on mobile devices: Growing numbers of users, including users with disabilities, are accessing the web using phones, tablets, and other mobile devices. Test your website using several mobile devices.

Be Aware of the Most Common Impairments and Disabilities Which Include:

• Vision problems
• Hearing impairment
• Motor skill conditions
• Cognitive disabilities, like dyslexia or dementia
• Photosensitivity, which includes epilepsy