Where It's AT – Assistive Technology Blog

Extraneous Alternative Text Alternative text should convey the content and function of an image, but it should not be used to convey additional information that is not presented visually by the image. For example, file size, file format, copyright details, that a graphical link opens in a new window, link destination, price (on e-commerce sites), […]

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Practical Guidance on Graphic Design, 508 Compliance, and Dissemination  Three new guides offer guidance on navigating 508 compliance, using graphic design, and writing effective newsflashes to create engaging products. The graphic design guide covers concepts behind good design and how to use photographs, images, color, tables, figures, and type to create useful publications and digital […]

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Avoid Redundant Alternative Text Images and related text are often paired together, such as a product image with the product name immediately below it, or a photograph with a caption. In instances where the text conveys the content of the image, the image should usually be given null or empty alternative text (alt=””). This avoids […]

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Icons vs. Text Icons can present complex information, meaning, and functionality in a very small amount of space. A browser’s “Home” icon (typically an illustration of a house) readily conveys rather complex meaning and functionality – activating it will take you to the browser’s defined home page. While such icons can be very useful, care […]

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Cognitive Load vs. Functionality Cognitive load is the amount of mental effort required to engage in a process. On a web page, clutter, animation, confusing content, background sounds, complex information, and other aspects of poor accessibility and usability increase cognitive load. Try to provide necessary functionality while minimizing cognitive load. This can be particularly difficult […]

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Accessibility of User Flows When implementing accessibility, the issues on the most visited or high profile pages are often the first to be addressed. While this is effective, also consider user flows or processes. For example, on an online shopping site, focus on making the entire checkout process accessible. While the final purchasing page of […]

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