Accessibility FAST
FAST Accessibility Check
When creating or updating content, consider these questions.
Function
Ask:
Is the content written with the audience in mind? Does the content work on multiple devices and without using a mouse?
Best practices:
- Avoid PDFS.
- Use readability scores to gauge reading level.
- Use a read-aloud tool like Word Read Aloud, Immersive Reader, or TextAid to ensure content is read as intended.
Appearance
Ask:
Is the font easy to read?
If I printed this in black and white, would the content retain meaning?
Best Practices:
- Use sans-serif or basic serif fonts, of at least 12 point in documents, 18 point in presentations, and 16 pixels on webpages.
- Ensure a color contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 between text and background color.
- Information or emphasis cannot be conveyed by color alone.
Structure
Ask:
Were lists, headings, and columns created using built-in tools?
Are tables only used for data?
Best practices:
- Ensure headings are both visual (larger, bolded font) and coded (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.).
- Use numbered lists for steps in a process and bulleted lists for groupings of items.
- Tables must have a header row or column.
- Tables should not be used for layout.
Text Equivalents
Ask:
If someone cannot see or hear content, would they perceive all essential information?
Best Practices
- Use descriptive link text, not bare URLs.
- Add alternative text and/or image captions.
- Include accurate closed captions on videos.
- Provide accurate transcripts of audio.
Moving forward…
Focus on creation and revision, not remediation. When you create new content or update/republish existing material, focus on incorporating accessibility best practices. Do not worry about ‘fixing’ each one of your old documents if you’re no longer using them. Aim to improve as you move forward.
