Whether it is a document, webpage, Canvas, flyer, infographic, email, or social media, content creators should always consider the five most common accessibility tips to create accessible and user-friendly content for everyone.
1. Headings
- Headings give a document or webpage structure by category or topic (Heading 1 through 6).
- Use headings to ease navigation through a document or webpage.
- Headings allow for a table of contents to be generated automatically in Word Document.
2. Images
- Use alternative text (alt text), a written description of images and/or objects.
- Be brief and descriptive.
- “Image of…”or “photo of…” or “graphic of” is not needed.
- The best method to practice is using captions; this will provide equal access to all users.
- Learn more about Best Practices for Accessible Images
3. Color
- Select colors with deep contrast.
- Use the Colour Contrast Analyser tool to ensure accessible contrast.
- Provide captions if using color to convey meaning i.e. which section is highlighted in red?
4. Links
- Links should be clear and directly related to the title or heading of the linked page.
- Use text like “Visit the Universal Design Center” instead of “Click here for more details.”
- Do not use the same link text to refer to different resources.
- Do not use different link text to refer to the same resources.
- Learn more about Best Practices for Accessible Links
5. Captions
- Ensure video files have captions.
- Ensure audio files have transcripts.
- Visit the NCOD: Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services page to request media captioning
The Universal Design Center offers training, consulting, evaluations, and support. Want to learn more? Have questions? Need advice? Email UDC at udc@csun.edu or call 818.677.5898.
