Common accessibility myths
Thanks to RNIB Connect magazine for this article:
Myth #1: “Accessible websites look boring”
In fact, accessibility places very few restrictions on site design and leads to better use of images and colours, improving usability for all.
Myth #2: “You should always use a large font”
Not necessarily! Flexible font sizes are the best so any reader can alter the size to suit their needs.
Myth #3: “You can’t use images”
Yes you can and you should! Although blind and partially sighted people may not be able to see images clearly, often they can enhance the accessibility of a website for people who have low levels of literacy, the elderly or children. By adding a description, anyone using a screen reader will be able to understand why the image is there and how it fits with your content.
Myth #4: “Accessibility is time-consuming, expensive and technical”
Designing a website can be expensive, but building accessibility into the design doesn’t have to be costly. In fact, it makes a site much more user-friendly which will cut down on maintenance costs once the site is up and running.
You can contact RNIB about web accessibility at webaccess@rnib.org.uk or phone us on 020 7391 2178
- Date: January 2010