A Web page is collection of one or more embedded resources (content) that are rendered simultaneously by a user agent under a single URL or domain. Assistive technology like screen readers or magnification software rely on the information provided by the user agent to provide alternative (aural, tactile or magnified) rendering of the web page to the user. For users of assistive technology, a page is usable when it is designed to accurately convey the information on the page.
Principles for Accessible Web Design
These principles are based on Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act: Electronic and Information Technology Standards, subsection §1199.22; Web-based intranet and internet information and applications, subsection §1194.24; Video and Multimedia products and W3C Web Accessibility guidelines.
- Create pages that conform to generally-accepted standards for web technologies (XHTML, XML, CSS etc)
- Separate document structure from its visual presentation from. Use external style sheets to specify typographical style, layout and color.
- Clearly identify and group navigational elements and provide a method to skip repetitive navigation links.
- Organize the read order flow of the document so that it conveys the same information with or without associated style sheets.
- Provide appropriate contrast between background and foreground and do not use color only to convey information.
- Provide alternative methods to convey information about non-textual objects (images, audio, video, interactive media, applets etc.).
- Ensure all information related to forms (field elements, directions, cues) is accessible to assistive technology
- When using data tables, ensure data cells are associated with row and column header cells and can be explicitly associated with header cells
- Ensure all site navigation and interoperable activities can be performed using the keyboard. Include accessible alternatives for content created in non-HTML format (PDF, PowerPoint, etc)
