Checklist to follow
Below we have created a checklist of items to summarise what you have learned in this step by step guide to creating accessible documents.
Things to do
- Make sure the reading order of your document makes sense
- Make sure the design layout of your document is easy to follow
- Make sure all images are marked as decorative or have appropriate alt-text
- Add tables or charts using the proper tools, and always include headers and a key
- Choose appropriate fonts and colours for easy reading
- Write in plain language with simple explanations
- Use proper headings to structure your content
- Use a suitable point size for text
- Add lists using the proper tool
- Use descriptive text for any hyperlinks
- Conduct checks to ensure your documents meet accessibility standards to comply with the Equality Act 2010.
Things to avoid
- Using complex language that might hinder understanding
- Ignoring the significance of headings and structure
- Creating tables, charts, lists or links without using the proper tools
- Overlooking the importance of font choice, point size and colours
- Neglecting the presentation and layout of your documents
- Creating materials that are inaccessible to any section of your audience
Accessibility is good for everyone
Making your document accessible can help all sorts of people, regardless of whether they have a disability. People might be using a mobile device or a small screen, they might be stressed or injured, or perhaps English is not their native language.
Anyone can become disabled at any time, in fact it happens to one in four of us over the course of our lives, and it can be very difficult to navigate the world with a disability. Taking the time to make sure your document is accessible is not just a legal responsibility, it shows your customer that you care about their ability to easily access your service.