Access for People Who Are Blind

People who are blind usually access computers through the use of screen reader software which reads to them what's on the screen. Some use a device that converts what's on the screen into Braille so they can read it. People who are blind cannot use a mouse.

Issues:

Realize that screen reader software can only read text and specific formatting information.Graphical images, colors, and other visual elements need to be labeled in order for the screen reader to pass on that information to the blind user.

A Simulation:

Start screen reader software on your computer (we use JAWS at the College of the Redwoods). Turn off your monitor. Using only your keyboard and listening skills, navigate through some web pages.

Some Solutions:

• Keep access for people who are blind in mind when creating new Web pages.
• All non-spacer pictures/images must have alt text -- text labels.
• Keyboard accessibility is a must.  Users will be using the Tab and Enter keys besides other screen reader function keys.
• Include a link that allows the user to jump to the main content easily ("skip navigation").
• All links should be unique and descriptive. For example: "Click Here" or "more" are unacceptable for links because they do not make sense when read out of context. Remember, screen reader software allows the user to view a list of all of the links on a page for easier navigation.
• Organize web pages logically and use headers (<h1>, <h2>, etc.) appropriately.
• Do not use headers simply to change the size of text, instead use cascading style sheets (CSS).
• Provide accessible equivalents for videos. If necessary, a text only transcript may have to be provided.
• In general, avoid JavaScript navigation which can be difficult or impossible for screen readers.
• Content tables (not tables used strictly for layout) must be marked up correctly with proper HTML to enable access by screen readers. Associate data cells with headers. See WebAim.org for more information on tables.
• Realize that Macromedia Flash is still mostly inaccessible by screen reader software. Evaluate whether Flash is the essential, and if so, provide accessible alternatives if necessary.
• Test for accessibility with WebXACT (formerly Bobby) or another site evaluation tool.
• Test your Web pages with JAWS or another screen reader.
• Colorblindness can also be an issue