Student Disability Services: Web Site Accessibility
Making Web Sites Accessible to All
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states that all electronic and information technology developed, procured, maintained or used by the federal government must be fully accessible by people with disabilities. The Technology Assistance Act and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 has been passed to include all areas of public access including web sites. Recently published federal guidelines require compliance by July 2001.
Even with the legislation that has been passed, there is very little awareness about this subject. The amount of web sites that meet the accessibility standard is even less. To assist in compliance with federal mandates, this quick reference provides basic guidelines for accessible web sites. These guidelines are not intended to be an exhaustive reference for web accessibility, but to deal with the more common obstacles to access.
This article created by Clemson University INED Students: Heather Bowen, Lisa Light, Martha Ann McCracken and Laterrence Williams.
Guidelines
- All graphics, images, photographs and embedded audio must include a text (alt attribute) description. The software used by individuals with disabilities cannot read images or sounds, only text.
- All embedded links must include a text only link before the image map. An image map is a graphic that serves as a link to another page or web-site.
- All text must read from left to right. Do not use columns or tabular formats, because some software can only read from left to right.
- Text must not be moving or changing. Make sure not to use scrolling marquees, flashing text, etc...
- Always have HTML format available. HTML is the most common of the computer languages used to develop and design web sites. Make sure the first site available does not automatically incorporate Java, Active X, VB Script, etc... If desired, enhanced sites can be offered through a link.
- Provide different ways to fill out forms. Allow all forms, such as applications and surveys, to be printed out and completed.
- Avoid wordiness in text links. Make sure all links are clear and concise.
- Do not use proprietary HTML markup language. A wide variety of browser specific HTML tags are available. The software cannot read these. An HTML tag is any code or instruction not directly written by the site designer. Provide an alternative presentation by text only or link.
- Always test your site on various browsers and operating systems. The following web sites will evaluate your web site and give you more detailed information on accessibility guidelines. www.cast.org/bobby or aprompt.snow.utoronto.ca/
Don't forget to meet with your advisor to request accommodations before each semester begins!