How to make a web site accessible

All departmental and unit web sites must meet "priority I" accessibility standards, as defined by the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium).

Here are some key actions you can take to make a web page accessible.

Use logical tags and proportional fonts

Logical structure, fonts that can be enlarged and links that can be tabbed are key to an accessbile page.

Use alt tags on images

Alt tags provide descriptions of images on a web site. They're useful for blind readers and others who use audio-based browsers to view web pages.

Provide alt tags, other helps on image maps

Every hot spot on an image map should have an alt tag. In addition, redundant text links should be provided elsewhere on the page for every link on an image map.

Use alternatives to color

Convey information with more than just color and make sure the colors you use are distinct from each other.

Make hyperlinks meaningful

Hyperlinks should be meaningful, telling readers exactly what they'll find if they click.

Avoid frames

Avoid frames, which can be confusing for those who are visually impaired. If you must use them, give frames meaningful titles and provide "no frames" info.

Describe charts

Describe information in charts, for those who are unable to view charts.

Use labels with forms

Use labels on forms and provide contact information so users can request the form in another format.

Provide alternatives for scripts, PDFs and multimedia.

Scripts, applets, plug-ins and PDFS may not be accessible. Provide a contact for viewers to request the information in a different way.

Test tools

Here are a variety of tools for testing web pages for accessibility.

Who benefits from accessible pages

People with visual disabilities. People who are motion-impaired. People who use web phones or PDAs. People with old browsers. People who like fast-loading, well-organized sites.