Marketing and Communications

Accessibility

Accessibility

An effective and engaging website should be accessible to all users. Lindenwood University is committed to creating an accessible web presence. We adhere to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2), Level AA and AAA; therefore, all web content contributors must develop and edit their content with accessibility in place.

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2 is developed through the W3C process in cooperation with individuals and organizations around the world, with a goal of providing a single shared standard for web content accessibility that meets the needs of individuals, organizations, and governments internationally.

The Basics

  1. High Contrast Colors 
    WCAG 2.0 level AA requires a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. WCAG 2.1 requires a contrast ratio of at least 3:1 for graphics and user interface components (such as form input borders). WCAG Level AAA requires a contrast ratio of at least 7:1 for normal text and 4.5:1 for large text.
    • Several free contrast checker tools are available.
      We often use this checker - webaim.org.
  2. Do not provide instruction that relies solely on color
    IE. "the text in blue"
  3. Do not provide instruction that relies on a single sensory characteristic.
    IE. "on the menu to the right"
  4. Alt Text
    Write and implement alternative text for image to provide context for users who utilize screen readers.
  5. Use Text. Avoid images of text.
    IE. Do not post on the page a .jpg version of a flier that you will post on campus. Instead incorporate the text of the flier onto the page as accessible text.
  6. Use Contextual Link Text
    IE. Do not use "click here to learn more."
  7. Use Appropriate Structure
    Structure content with headings, lists and table headers.
  8. Video Captioning
    Provide captions or transcripts for video and audio.
  9. Testing Updates
    Test new designs and updates with colleagues, on multiple device and browser types, and with automated tools.

Consultation

Please reach out to our office for additional details and consultation regarding you accessibility efforts.

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