Ensuring that images are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, is a critical aspect of creating inclusive documentation. Accessible images contribute to a better user experience and comply with accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
Alt Text for Accessibility:
- Provide alt text for all meaningful images: Alt text should be added to all images that convey important information. This ensures that users with visual impairments, who rely on screen readers, can understand the content. Example: “Flowchart showing the steps for resetting a password.”
- Use empty alt text for decorative images: If an image is purely decorative and does not convey any meaningful information, use empty alt text (e.g., alt=””). This prevents screen readers from announcing unnecessary content, allowing users to focus on the important information.
Colour and Contrast:
- Ensure sufficient colour contrast: Ensure that images have adequate contrast between text and background colours to meet accessibility standards. Use tools to check colour contrast and adjust as needed. Example: Use dark text on a light background or vice versa to ensure readability.
- Avoid using colour as the only means of conveying information: For users with colour blindness, avoid relying solely on colour to differentiate elements. Use patterns, shapes, or labels in addition to colour. Example: In a graph, use different patterns or textures in addition to colour to distinguish between data sets.
Keyboard and Screen Reader Compatibility:
- Ensure images are keyboard-navigable: Images should be accessible via keyboard navigation to accommodate users who cannot use a mouse.
- Test images with screen readers: Regularly test documentation with screen readers to ensure that all images and their alt text are being read correctly.
Dos:
- Provide meaningful alt text for all images: Example: “Button highlighted on the settings menu for enabling two-factor authentication.”
- Ensure high colour contrast for text in images: Example: White text on a dark blue background.
Dont’s:
- Don’t rely solely on colour to convey information: Always provide additional cues, such as labels, patterns, or shapes.