Guiding Principles for EIT Accessibility

Use Headings Correctly

When breaking information up into logical sections, use Heading 1 for the main heading, Heading 2 for the next level heading, and so on. Do not jump from Heading 2 to Heading 6 and ensure that each page has one and only one Heading 1 heading. 

Use Lists

Use lists using the numbering or bulleting tools available. Screen readers will be able to inform users that information is organized in a list. This arrangement will increase comprehension and navigation.

Add Alternative Text to Images

Alternative text gives users a description of an image through a screen reader.

Identify Document Language

Screen readers are multilingual, therefore they are capable of reading documents written in many different languages. It is important and helpful to identify the language in the document so that the screen reader may appropriately read the document. 

Using Tables Wisely

Use columns in the place of tables when structuring a web page’s layout. Tables should only be used to convey data and when used, tables should be kept simple and employ the use of headers. 

Exporting From One Format to Another

When converting a document from Microsoft Word to a PDF be sure to “Save as PDF” instead of printing to the PDF.

Accessible Website Features

  • HTML Headings can be accessed using a keyboard 
  • Use alt text to describe images, graphs, and other visual information 
  • Accessible menus 
  • Columns used to organize content instead of tables 
  • Color is not used to convey meaning 
  • Descriptive, but short and concise link text

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 set the standards in accessible content.  WCAG instructs that web content should be perceivable, either alone or through assistive technology, be operable by all individuals regardless of whether or not they use assistive technology or if they have visual, hearing, motor or other impairments. Content must be readable and understandable. Content must be robust and be able to be accessed through a wide array of assistive technologies.