Check data and other outputs for print and web accessibility

To maximize usability of your data or outputs, ensure that those with impairments or disabilities will still be able to access and understand them. The Web Accessibility Initiative, from the W3C, suggests that those producing content for others consider the following (text from their website):

Make your outputs perceivable

• Provide text alternatives for non-text content.
• Provide captions and other alternatives for multimedia.
• Create content that can be presented in different ways, including by assistive technologies, without losing meaning.
• Make it easier for users to see and hear content.
• Make your outputs operable

Make all functionality available from a keyboard

• Give users enough time to read and use content.
• Do not use content that causes seizures.
• Help users navigate and find content.

Make your outputs understandable

• Make text readable and understandable.
• Make content appear and operate in predictable ways.
• Help users avoid and correct mistakes.

Make your outputs robust

• Maximize compatibility with current and future user tools.

Description Rationale

By ensuring your data and other outputs are accessible by all, you are maximizing their potential for re-use and preventing misuse.

Additional Information

Best Practices for Web Accessibility from W3C: http://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG20/glance/

You can also check your images with Vischeck to see how they look to someone colorblind: http://vischeck.com

Cite this best practice:

Eric Lind, Robert Stevenson, DataONE  (May 11, 2011) "Best Practice: Check data and other outputs for print and web accessibility". Accessed through the Data Management Skillbuilding Hub at https://dataoneorg.github.io/Education/bestpractices/check-data-and on Mar 01, 2024