Accessibility on the Web

What is Accessibility?

There are various levels of accessibility. Commonly, people simplify accessibility to be the equivalent of a wheelchair ramp or a large-print text, but web accessibility encompasses more than that. Accessibility in relationship to the web includes a variety of aspects, from adherence to standards, to user abilities, to the environment in which the site is hosted.

Levels of Accessibility

Why Should Websites be Accessible?

Making a website accessible to all who come is not just a courtesy, and it's not just for those who know they will have site users with differing abilities. Accessibility covers a broad range of factors, from the browser a visitor is using (whether it be a mobile device or a screen reader), to the size of their screen and speed of their internet connection, as well as the specific needs of the viewer. Accessibility just makes good business sense. Why limit access and turn users away when you don't have to?

How Do You Make Websites Accessible?

At its most basic level, making websites accessible is about redundancy. Provide multiple ways for site users to access content, and don't make assumptions about user capabilities. From a content standpoint, that means clear language, images with proper alternative text and long descriptions, live text rather than images for headings, and site content organization that is direct, logical, intuitive, and properly uses the structure provided by (X)HTML. From a design standpoint, it means resisting the desire to communicate critical information in a purely visual manner. It also means not relying on plug-ins (for example, Flash) or JavaScript for the presentation of navigation or content. These tools could be used to progressively enhance the site while maintaining the accessibility of the content to all audiences.

Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) provides a wealth of information, including Quick Tips to making accessible websites.

About this Website

The VSA Arts of Vermont website is a collection of structured content (XHTML) with CSS used to create the visual presentation. JavaScript has been used to enhance the experience, but is not required to access any of the content of the site. The site does not contain Flash. Pages are valid XHTML and have been tested in 30 operating system/browser combinations (including screen readers) for consistent and informative rendering.

This information has been developed and provided by Found Line, the creative firm that designed and developed this website. Please contact Found Line with comments and questions.