October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. During the month, the Digital Accessibility Working Group, which focuses on digital accessibility initiatives, will be sending out weekly messages to promote awareness.
Did you know?
Microsoft and Google have several built-in features to help make documents accessible to people with disabilities. Appalachian has also recently started offering the SensusAccess document conversion service to the campus community. Accessible documents help everyone access information more conveniently!
Best practices for making documents accessible
- Include alternative text for all pictures, graphics, charts, etc.
- Use meaningful text for hyperlinks.
- Make sure color is not the only way information is conveyed.
- Use sufficient contrast for text and background colors.
- Use built-in headings and styles.
- Use tables for data only, and specify column header information.
What can you do?
- Proactively use Microsoft and Google features for creating accessible files.
- Try the new SensusAccess service for converting documents to accessible formats.
"Accessibility allows us to tap into everyone's potential." -- Debra Ruh