Guide to Guideline 1.3 Level 2 Success Criterion 2

1.3 L2 SC2

Intent of this success criterion

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Technology-Independent techniques for Guideline 1.3 L2 SC2

Using color to convey information

Task:

When color is used to convey information, the same information should be available in a form that does not depend on the ability to perceive color.

Color is an important asset in Web design, enhancing usability and aesthetic appeal. However, some users have difficulty perceiving color. People with partial sight often experience limited color vision, and many older users do not see color well. In addition, people using text-only and monochrome displays will be unable to access information that is presented only in color. The solution is to include the information in the source document while setting presentation properties in a style sheet.

Tactile graphics

Task:

Make image structure available to the sense of touch

Editorial Note: Not exactly sure where to map this technique?

Visual images may be converted into tactile form. For example, images can be printed as detailed reliefs using a specialized adaptation of Braille. Alternatively, the images can be printed on special paper and converted into raised-line drawings (as in the example from the Tate Gallery's IMAP project discussed in the technique on using alternative views to show the structure of complex images). These relief drawings can also be used as overlays on a digitizing tablet. With the aid of additional software, the image becomes a "touch screen" and provide spoken output as the user presses different areas.

Resources:
  • The University of North Carolina's BATS project produces maps that use both tactile and auditory cues to provide information about locations and the distances between them. See Mark Tosczak "A New Way to Read, Not See, Maps." Wired News September 25, 2002. Available at http://www.wired.com/news/school/0,1383,54916,00.html. Accessed August 26, 2004.

  • Liddy Nevile's "Accessible Diagrams" page (2002) provides a useful overview of techniques and technologies for producing tactile graphics, both on- and off-line. Available at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/webaccess/diagrams.html.

Technology-Specific Techniques for Guideline 1.3 L2 SC2

CSS Techniques

Benefits: How Guideline 1.3 L2 SC2 helps people with disabilities

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Examples of Guideline 1.3 L2 SC2

Related resources

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