Object Formatting
Object Formatting
Include Alternative Text for Images & Objects
- If the picture, clipart, chart, graph, shape or SmartArt graphic conveys information, is alternative text provided AND the object placed in line with text?
- If the picture, clipart or shape is added for visual emphasis or decoration, is "decorative" entered as the alternative text? (Note: Decorative images do not have to be placed inline.)
- Are multiple associated images on the same page (e.g., boxes in an organizational chart) grouped as one object with one alternative text?
How?
Use clear, concise terms to describe what's important. If the image contains, text, repeat the text exactly in the description – unless the content contains the same information. If complex images have descriptive text immediately following them, alternative text does not need to be provided.
- Click on the image or object.
- Right click and select Format Picture/Object/Chart > Alt Text.
- In the Description box, use clear, concise terms to describe what's important. If the image contains, text, repeat the text exactly in the description – unless the content contains the same information. For a decorative object that does not provide meaningful, simply enter "decorative."
Why is this important?
Screen readers read alternative text out loud and are the only information that blind users will have about the images, chart, shapes, etc. in your document.
Resources
- Alternative Text
- Alternative Text Blunders
- Add Alt Text to Images
- Add Alt Text to SmartArt Graphics
- Add Alt Text to Shapes
- Add Alt Text to PivotCharts
- Add Alt Text to Tables
Repeat Vital Information Included in Headers, Footers & Watermarks
- Is vital information from the header, footer or watermark duplicated in the document?
How?
Duplicate vital information (Draft, Confidential, Do Not Distribute, etc.) in the Header/Footer or Watermark in the file name, document title and/or near the beginning of your document or the start of the related section.
Why is this important?
Screen readers do not automatically read information in headers, footers or watermarks. Therefore, vital information must also be duplicated at or near the beginning of the document.
Resources
Avoid Forms
- Were fillable form fields excluded from the spreadsheet?
How?
Meet with the VDOE web unit to find alternate solutions.
Why is this important?
Checkboxes, textboxes and other form elements must be properly labeled for a screen reader. Microsoft Word 2010 does not allow formatting to create an accessible form.