Accessibility
Why Accessibility Matters
Accessible content ensures that everyone, including people with disabilities, can access and understand your materials.
- Improves usability for everyone
- Supports a wide range of needs
- Aligns with accessibility standards
- Leads to clearer communication
Text & Structure
Well-structured content helps all users scan and understand information quickly. Screen readers rely on headings and structure to navigate content efficiently.
- Use headings in a logical order (H1 > H2 > H3)
- Keep writing clear and concise
- Break content into short paragraphs or lists
- Avoid large blocks of text
- Use real text; not images of text
Links
Screen readers announce links without surrounding context. Clear, descriptive link text helps users understand where a link will take them. This also helps anyone viewing the page to scan and quickly identify the links on the page.
Use descriptive link text and avoid phrases like “Click here”. For example: Click here to learn more vs. Lodging Options in Cincinnati.
Images
Users who cannot see images rely on alt text to understand visual content. Alt text should communicate the purpose or meaning of the image.
- Add alt text to meaningful images
- Skip alt text for decorative images (for example, a decorative line on the page)
- Describe the purpose; not just appearance. For example: “Bar chart showing enrollment increased 20% from 2022 to 2024”.
Color & Contrast
Not all users perceive color the same way; including those with color blindness. Strong contrast and clear labeling help ensure content is readable and understandable for everyone.
- Ensure strong contrast between text and background (for example, avoid light gray text on white)
- Do not rely on color alone to communicate meaning (use labels, patterns, or icons)