Accessible Documents

Creating Accessible Documents

Remember, interns are available to provide assistance.

Maximizing flexibility is the key. Providing an electronic version of a presentation that is presented visually in class, or of a handout that is distributed in hard copy, is a good idea for several reasons. Accessible electronic versions of documents give end users the ability to:

  • Listen as it is read out loud
  • Magnify on screen
  • Print in a larger format
  • Convert to Braille

Check out the computer users page for more information

 

Word Processing

Microsoft Word or other word processors are often used to create all kinds of documents, many of which are then turned into PDF. There are best practices that make a big difference in how usable the resulting content will be.

  • Using styles to designate headings, lists, etc,
  • Using tables for information that should read row by row
  • Using columns for information that should read straight down
  • Provide alt text for images so screenreaders have something to announce
  • Use appropriate fonts, colors, and white space for maximum readability

For detailed information on how to use features within various versions of Word Processing programs check resources like these:

Information on using different versions of Word from WebAIM

4 page Instructions from Grinnel

Comprehensive tutorial from Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System 

Word 2007 course from Microsoft on how to use styles

 
 

Creating more Accessible PDF

Microsoft has a site showing how to create accessible pdf from Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, etc

Adobe Acrobat Accessibility Training Resources The Adobe Accessibility training site has a lot of great videos and step by step instructions for completing common tasks.

Making PDF Files Accessible – Tutorials from Web Accessibility for All The Web Accessibility for All site has great guidance.

Adobe Accessibility is covered within the State of Alaska training and in an Access 2010 Conference session

UAA Faculty Video Tutorial (captioned) The key steps to creating accessible PDF are demonstrated in a captivate tutorial.

UAA PDF Quick Tip Handout The key steps to creating accessible PDF are illustrated in a printable handout.

 

Presentations

Making PPT More Accessible

Overview of PPT and Accessibility

UAA PPT Quick Tip Handout The key steps to accessible presentations are illustrated in a printable handout

 

Sample Documents for Accessible PDF Training at UAA

Note that these sample files are meant for use within one of the training sessions offered through Human Resources, CAFE, Faculty Tech, or DSS.

Creating Accessible Source Documents

Differences in PDF accessibility based on creation method

Link to Evaluation Form