Writing for Accessibility

Accessibility as a basic requirement

Adopting a mindset that incorporates accessibility into the foundations of product development and service design ensures clear definition of concepts, features and objectives by reducing these to their simplest - and truest - essence and expression.

7 tips to write accessible content

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) outline seven writing tips to make web content accessible to people with disabilities.

Create informative and unique page titles

Ensure each web page has a short, descriptive title that distinguishes it from other pages. This helps users understand the content and navigate more easily.

Outline and summarise with headings

Organise your content with clear and descriptive headings to optimise page navigation and scanning. Clever outlines help users, especially those relying on assistive technologies.

Clearly describe link text destinations and actions. Avoid using vague terms like "click here" or "read more" that don't provide any context.

Write image alt text

Include descriptive alt text for all images. Alternative text allows users who cannot see the images to understand their content.

Add transcripts and captions to media

Provide transcripts and captions for audio and video content. This makes multimedia accessible to users with hearing impairments.

Provide step-by-step instructions

Give clear, concise, step-by-step instructions for tasks and interactions. Ensure that users understand the interface mechanics, what is required of them, and how to complete tasks.

Keep content clear and concise

Use plain language and avoid unnecessary jargon. Make content easier to understand for all users, including those with cognitive disabilities.