It is very important that the agencies that create digital content ensure that the content they create is accessible to people with disabilities. If you are following this blog post, probably you have heard about Section 508.
Youngsoft explains Section 508 accessibility and also things you need to give attention to while developing a 508 Compliant website.
- Section 508 is a part of the United States legislation that protects the right of people with disabilities to have equal access to electronic and information technology
- Section 508 itself is an important amendment to the US Workforce Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and further strengthens the Act with the specific aim of eliminating barriers in information technology
- Section 508 involves developing a website that can be used by people with limited vision or blindness, deafness, seizure disorders, and other disabilities
This law concerns any company that cooperated with federal agencies. Including, but not limited to legal organizations, private contractors, healthcare and financial industries, and more.
While WCAG 2.1 are guidelines that apply to everyone, section 508 is a law that applies only to government agencies and initiatives. https://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/105254
- Color and Contrast
- Keyboard Navigation
- Compatible with Screen Readers
- Include Captions
- Include Captions
- ALT Text for Images and Videos
- No Time Limits
- Dynamic Content/Interactivity
- Web Forms
The cloud consultants of Youngsoft proposed and designed an optimal infrastructure from the ground up, with a focus on delivering results to SIHO’s expectations. Important elements included:
- There are also Section 508 compliance checkers available online. The site asks you to enter your URL and then it will help guide you through whether or not your website is 508 compliant
- Using WebAIM checklists the standards that adhere to Section 508 gives the information on what might make your website fail. There are lots of accessibility resources on WebAIM https://webaim.org/standards/508/checklist
- WCAG 2.1 guidelines include conformance ratings of A, AA, or AAA, corresponding to the level of impact toward accessibility
- Below section also provides more detail on testing and ensuring compatibility
The following tools help the website achieve the highest level in 508 Compliance testing:
- Web page evaluation tools
- WAVE
- AInspector
- Standard specific tools
- Color Contrast Analyzer
- A11Y Color Contrast Accessibility Validator
- Accessibility Checker
- Manual inspection
- View Source
- Keyboard Evaluation
- Audio Transmission evaluation
- Screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, Window-Eyes)
You can also contact Youngsoft for developing accessibility Web Applications. Youngsoft is always at your service to help you globally.
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