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Web Design Advances in technology have revolutionized access to information by persons with print disabilities, typically those who are blind or who have dyslexia. Computer programs read materials from a computer screen, via screen reading programs such as JAWS or Window Eyes. Previously, live readers or books on tape were commonly used. The structure of the information on the screen itself is critical to the success of its readability by a software program. Accessible web design means that the information in a site is readable by screen reading software or that audio aspects are accessible by the deaf or hearing impaired. All individuals designing and modifying web sites are encouraged to investigate principles of accessibility for web pages. The World Wide Web Consortium with sponsors including the National Science Foundation, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, IBM, Microsoft Corporation, Bell Atlantic and others, has developed web accessibility guidelines and techniques, technical references and other information to aid in the design of web pages that are accessible by all users. For information on accessibility features for web pages, go to: Accessible Webpage Design: Resources National Center for Accessible Media The federal government and the state of Texas now require official sites to be designed in such a way as to ensure accessibility by all viewers. At Rice University, Web Services personnel can assist with web design features to build in accessibility. |
