Monday 6 November, 2006
More often than not accessibility is overlooked and put in
the ‘low priority' basket when it comes to designing a website. Many do
not understand just how beneficial an accessible site can be. Not only
does it allow users with disabilities to have access, but also improves
the overall usability, and increases search optimisation.
A number of similarities exist between usability and accessibility
guidelines. Such guidelines as colour, text size, keyboard interaction,
and clear and simple writing helps ensure sites are easier to find in
search engines, access and use by everyone. The site structure and
navigation also impacts on the understanding and use of the site by
users with and without disabilities.
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has developed guidelines to help websites adhere to accessibility. Being compliant with basic Level A is easy and cost effective and something every website should be addressing. The following should be applied when applicable.
Providing ALT text for images is essential for users relying on screen readers and other assistive technologies. It also benefits users with low bandwidth connections who choose to turn off images.
When assigning alt text remember that it must be descriptive. Search optimisation is also greatly improved by the use of alt text.
Interestingly, not providing alt text was one of the main contributing factors for which organisations have been sued.
If images, javascript or flash are used to convey important information ensure an alternative is available. Users with older technology might not have the appropriate software required and assistive devices may not work effectively. Search engines cannot read scripting.
Be aware of tables and forms. Text should be properly assigned to the appropriate field when using forms. Tables should have headers for the rows and columns.
Provide written transcripts for audio or video files. This will allow deaf users and those that do not have appropriate software or bandwidth to still access this information.
Use meaningful headings and links. Avoid the use of "click here" as a link name. Screen readers can be programmed to only read link text. If you have a link that says "Click Here", the user has zero information about what the link is and where it will take them. This principle helps all users to quickly scan and easily differentiate between links.
Incorporating accessibility within a site ensures everyone has access regardless of a disability or impairment; ultimately it means all users can easily navigate, understand, and interact with your site. In essence accessibility goes hand-in-hand with usability. Users with low literacy skills, those not fluent in English, older people, those with low bandwidth connections and older technology are also affected by inaccessible websites.
Considering the internet is fast becoming the primary means of locating information and transacting for a growing number of Australians, the case for accessibility has never been stronger. Creating accessible web pages should be an integral part of all web design and is just as important as making the site usable.
Source;ceoonline.com
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has developed guidelines to help websites adhere to accessibility. Being compliant with basic Level A is easy and cost effective and something every website should be addressing. The following should be applied when applicable.
Providing ALT text for images is essential for users relying on screen readers and other assistive technologies. It also benefits users with low bandwidth connections who choose to turn off images.
When assigning alt text remember that it must be descriptive. Search optimisation is also greatly improved by the use of alt text.
Interestingly, not providing alt text was one of the main contributing factors for which organisations have been sued.
If images, javascript or flash are used to convey important information ensure an alternative is available. Users with older technology might not have the appropriate software required and assistive devices may not work effectively. Search engines cannot read scripting.
Be aware of tables and forms. Text should be properly assigned to the appropriate field when using forms. Tables should have headers for the rows and columns.
Provide written transcripts for audio or video files. This will allow deaf users and those that do not have appropriate software or bandwidth to still access this information.
Use meaningful headings and links. Avoid the use of "click here" as a link name. Screen readers can be programmed to only read link text. If you have a link that says "Click Here", the user has zero information about what the link is and where it will take them. This principle helps all users to quickly scan and easily differentiate between links.
Incorporating accessibility within a site ensures everyone has access regardless of a disability or impairment; ultimately it means all users can easily navigate, understand, and interact with your site. In essence accessibility goes hand-in-hand with usability. Users with low literacy skills, those not fluent in English, older people, those with low bandwidth connections and older technology are also affected by inaccessible websites.
Considering the internet is fast becoming the primary means of locating information and transacting for a growing number of Australians, the case for accessibility has never been stronger. Creating accessible web pages should be an integral part of all web design and is just as important as making the site usable.
Source;ceoonline.com
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