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What makes a page accessible?

Most Web designers are aware that different browsers (e.g. Internet Explorer, Netscape) will display the same page quite differently. Often Web designers take measures to ensure pages look acceptable to the top two or three browsers, forgetting the literally thousands of users who do not use them.

Part of this group are visually impaired. Screen readers have made the Web a great resource of information for the visually impaired, allowing them access to information that previously had only been available in print. It is up to the Web authors not to put unnecessary restrictions on access to this information, especially on the educational level.

Accessible Web pages have their content available to all visitors, no matter what browser they use. This includes text only browsers. They also keep screen readers and the visually impaired in mind when designing their page layout and including graphics.

The following pages include tips and suggestions for improving the accessibility of a Web site.

First Tip