10 steps toward digital accessibility compliance

Headers, links, and lists are the easiest Core Concepts to fix in any format: 

• • Headers

    • Use a hierarchical sequence of headings (for example, don’t jump from Heading 1 to Heading 5 just because it looks better). Having a template will help with this.

    • Use short, descriptive headings for easier navigation.

    • Use the formatting tools in the application; don’t manually style your headings with color, bold, or italics. In Word, use the Styles pane to format all headers.

  • Links

    • Change the URL (https://) to wording that describes where the link is taking the reader. For example, rather than writing https://learning.medicine.wsu.edu, say Medicine Digital Learning.

    • Make your link text describe the destination with clear and concise language.

      • Avoid phrases like “Click here,” “More information,” “Learn more,” etc.
    • Reserve text underlining for links only. Don’t use it to emphasize text.

    • When linking to files, indicate the format in parentheses: For example, Core Concepts Check Sheet (PDF).

    • If you are doing links on websites (this includes Rise), make sure they open in the same tab.

  • Lists (bulleted or numbered)

    • Use the application formatting tools to make lists.

    • Use the increase indent button to create a sub-bullet or number rather than the tab key.

    • Properly nest your list styles to make the list easy to follow.

    • Think of the list in an outline format.