Accessibility

WordPress comes with some features that help your site comply with accessibility standards; however, it is important that you follow some basic guidelines so that all users of your site can access your content.

Alt Text

Use ALT Text for images and other media – Alternative text provides a textual alternative to non-text content in web pages. It is especially helpful for people who are blind and rely on a screen reader to have the content of the website read to them.

Correct Page Structure: Headings and Lists

Use correct page structure. Headings, lists, and other structural elements provide meaning and structure to web pages. They can also facilitate keyboard navigation within the page.

Use Meaningful Link Text

Ensure links make sense out of context. Every link should make sense if the link text is read by itself. Screen reader users may choose to read only the links on a web page. Certain phrases like “click here” and “more” must be avoided.

Slideshows: Not for Informational Content

Sliders (rotating banners) and gallery slideshows provide visual interest websites with very compelling imagery.  However, slideshows should not be used to convey important information that is not available elsewhere on the site.  Screen readers will “see” only one image on sliders and even sighted viewers may not notice that the banner is rotating through different images. Gallery slideshows are difficult to navigate for a screenreader.

Additional Information

There are many other principles of accessible design to be aware of.  Examples of best practices described on the WebAIM website include:

  • Providing headers for data tables
  • Captioning and/or providing transcripts for media
  • Ensuring accessibility of non-HTML content, including PDF files, Microsoft Word documents, PowerPoint presentations and Adobe Flash content.
  • Not relying on color alone to convey meaning