Designer's introduction and index

Guidance for accessibility in the form of recommendations and examples - organised into 6 themed sections:

1. Design Basics (non-technical)
2. Navigation and Orientation
3. Content
4. Images
5. Forms
6. Tables

1.0 - Design Basics (non-technical) - section introduction and index

• DES 1.1 - Be consistent throughout
• DES 1.2 - Enhance clarity with good design
• DES 1.3 - Do not convey information with colour alone
• DES 1.4 - Create contrast between foreground and background
• DES 1.5 - Avoid using flashing, flicker and unnecessary animation
• DES 1.6 - Use multimedia with care
• DES 1.7 - Create flexible width design if possible and appropriate
• DES 1.8 - Avoid frames and pop-up windows, and be careful with image maps

2.0 - Navigation and Orientation - section introduction and index

• DES 2.1 - Provide effective navigation based on recognised conventions
• DES 2.2 - Provide additional navigational aids
• DES 2.3 - Make links meaningful
• DES 2.4 - Allow the user to easily bypass information
• DES 2.5 - Create a logical tab order through the page

3.0 - Content- section introduction and index

• DES 3.1 - Write specifically for the web - use clear and simple language, provide 'metadata'
• DES 3.2 - Prioritise information, maximise readability and scanning
• DES 3.3 - Provide accessible alternatives - don't rely on pdf / word

4.0 - Images - section introduction and index

• DES 4.1 - For all images specify alternative text to convey equivalent information
• DES 4.2 - Provide full descriptions for informational images
• DES 4.3 - Avoid using images to display text
• DES 4.4 - Use the correct image format for the job

5.0 - Forms - section introduction and index

• DES 5.1 - Simplify form design, use good spacing, sensible grouping and labels for every element
• DES 5.2 - Prevent errors and assist recovery from errors by providing supportive information

6.0 - Tables - section introduction and index

• DES 6.1 - Data tables: simplify and mark up with special HTML
• DES 6.2 - Layout tables: ensure correct readout order, avoid complicated nesting, describe with summary attribute