<html>access

Providing Alternatives

Topic:

Project Guidelines

WAI checklist	If you look at the checkpoints listed under Priority 1 and 2 categories for accessible design, many have to do with providing alternatives. If people cannot see or hear what you see and hear on your monitor, the page should still communicate. Alt, longdesc and d tags: Unit 6 already discussed the use of alt tags with images. What if the image is too complex for a five-word alternative? What if you have a chart or graph that needs to be explained in more detail? Consider using the longdesc or a "d" tag. The longdesc tag goes in place of the alt tag and provides a link to another page with the lengthy description or explanation. In the following example of code, the graphic is named "pic" and the description is kept on a page with the file name "describe." The image would be inserted with <img src="pic.gif" longdesc="describe.htm"> Be sure to include a link back to your main page on the description page.	Return to Unit 8
d tag example	Some designers prefer to place a small d next to the graphic with a link to the description. WGBH, which maintains a web site that is a model for accessibility, uses the "d" link. See the example of how WGBH uses the this feature.
QuickTime movie with caption	Captions and Transcripts If you use multimedia, provide a transcript or caption for audio files. Since QuickTime movies are usually so tiny, computer speakers so tinny, and buffering so disruptive, captions will benefit everyone who visits your page. See how the caption on the movie about Kitty Hawk improves the experience.
	Image Maps, Frames and Forms An image map is a large graphic divided into regions that link to various pages. We will discuss these in greater detail under the "object" tag in a few weeks. Similarly, we will discuss the problems of using frames next week. In the meantime, keep in mind that if you use these you must also provide alternative means of navigation. When we discuss forms in a few weeks, remember to include an access key for those who do not use a mouse.
	Text Alternative Pages In some cases, it is best simply to provide a text-only alternative. The problem with doing this is that you must be sure to keep the alternative up to date whenever you make changes to the site. WGBH has a good example of a page with text alternatives.
WGBH Site front page	Whether you use an alternative site or not, it is a courtesy to have a statement about accessibility at the beginning of your site explaining site organization and features of universal design you use. Here you should also encourage viewers to send suggestions for improvement. Again, see the model at WGBH. Follow the link in the upper-left corner of their web site to see what the accessibility features page says. They do have a much more detailed page than most sites have.
	Continue to Notes on "Design">> Other comment notes for this unit: universal \| disability issues \| design \| tryouts

Readings	Resources	<head>	<p> etc.	<b> etc.	<li> etc.	<a href>	<img src>
Access	<table>	<frame>	<style>	<form>	<script>	<object>	validate

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