Web Accessibility

• All non-text content that is presented to the user has a text alternative that serves the equivalent purpose (WCAG 1.1.1; A).
• Images of text are only used for pure decoration or where a particular presentation of text is essential to the information being conveyed (WCAG 1.4.9; AAA).

Imagine for a moment that your browser stopped showing you images. You would still see them referenced in articles, you’d hear conversations about them, but you'd have no idea what they were talking about. As one visually impaired person put it on Mastodon: "It’s like watching a TV with no picture. You hear what is going on but have no idea what is there."

Alternative (alt) text serves several functions:

• Screen readers announce alternative text in place of images, helping users with visual or certain cognitive disabilities perceive the content and function of the images.
• If an image fails to load or the user has blocked images, the browser will present the alternative text in place of the image.
• Search engines use alternative text and factor it into their assessment of the page purpose and content.

• Keep it short, usually 1-2 sentences. Don’t overthink it.
• Consider key elements of why you chose this image, instead of describing every little detail.
• No need to say “image of” or “picture of.”
• However, do say if it’s a logo, illustration, painting, or cartoon.
• Don’t duplicate text that’s adjacent in the document or website.
• End the alt text sentence with a period.

Source: Harvard University Library: Digital Accessibility

With any multimedia, you must provide an equal or equivalent way for individuals to perceive the content. For time-based content, the alternative should be synced with the timing of the original, e.g., closed captions that run at the same pace as the video. 

Include the following accessibility features for each of the listed media: 

• Video: Closed captions AND verbal descriptions of important on-screen actions that could otherwise only be perceived through sight. Give users playback control and disable auto-play. 
• Audio only: Closed captions or a synced transcript. Give users playback control and disable auto-play. 
• Animations/Gifs: Alt text or a caption for animations/gifs that convey important information. If decorative, leave the Alt Text box blank.

Warning: Avoid flashing or flickering multimedia content as this can be unsafe for some individuals. If you cannot avoid it, place a warning before users access the content. 

When embedding media using the Media / Widget content type, add title="title of media" right after <iframe, ensuring that you have quotes around the title itself.

When embedding media in a text box, add the title to the Advisory Title field: