Using Text and Images
The following are baseline requirements for using text and images on the web that comply with Section 508 standards for web-based intranet and internet information and applications.
Web Text
DO:
- Do use real text rather than text within graphics or logos.
- Do use brand approved web fonts.
- Do use sufficient contrast between the text and the background.
DON'T:
- Don’t rely only on the appearance of the font (color, shape, font variation, placement, etc.) to convey meaning.
- Don't use blinking or moving text.
- Don’t use an image to present text, if the same visual presentation can be made using text alone.
Links
DO:
- Do tell where the link is going using the page title and ensure the link makes sense out of context.
- Do use the same descriptive text for the same destination.
- Do check links often to ensure they are not broken.
DON'T:
- Don’t use: “Click here”, “Read more”, “Continued...”
- Don't use: “Visit our Contact Us webpage.”
- Don't open a new window when linking within your site.
Alternative Text
DO:
- Do provide text alternatives for any non-text content.
- Do be accurate and equivalent in presenting the same content and function of the image.
- Do limit alternative text to about 125 characters.*
DON'T:
- Don’t be redundant or provide the same information as text within the context of the image.
- Don't use the phrases "image of ..." or "graphic of ..." to describe the image within your site.
* The longdesc attribute also can be used on the image. The value of the longdesc attribute of the img element contains the URL of the long description page.