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Accessibility

Accessibility 

Overview

Web accessibility refers to designing and developing websites that can be used by individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. It ensures that everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations, can access, navigate, and engage with Messiah University’s website. We are committed to meeting the needs of all users by adhering to established accessibility standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0, Level AA).

Why web accessibility is important

Ensuring web accessibility is a vital part of Messiah University’s commitment to inclusivity. By creating an accessible website, we are:

  • Promoting Equal Access: Accessibility ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can access and engage with the university’s digital resources on equal footing.
  • Improving User Experience: Accessible design enhances the usability of the website for everyone, providing easier navigation, clearer content structure, and a more seamless experience.
  • Complying with Legal Standards: Accessibility compliance helps the university meet legal obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant regulations.

Key accessibility best practices

To ensure accessibility, the following best practices are essential for all content creators and editors:

  • Alt Text for Images:
    • Every non-decorative image on the website must include descriptive alt text that conveys the purpose or content of the image to users who rely on screen readers.
    • Alt text should be clear, concise, and meaningful. Avoid phrases like "image of" or "picture of." Instead, describe the image in context. For example: "Students studying in the university library."
  • Appropriate Heading Structures:
    • Use headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to create a logical content hierarchy. This helps users, especially those using screen readers, to easily navigate the page.
    • Each page should have one H1 heading (typically for the page title), and subheadings (H2, H3, etc.) should be used in descending order to break content into sections.
    • Avoid skipping heading levels (e.g., using an H3 directly after an H1), as this can confuse users and assistive technologies.
  • Appropriate Linking Best Practices:
    • Ensure that all links are descriptive and meaningful on their own. Avoid using vague phrases such as "click here" or "read more." Instead, describe the link’s purpose, e.g., "Download the admissions brochure."
    • Ensure that links open in the same window unless there is a strong reason to open in a new tab (and if so, notify the user within the link).

Accessibility audits and requests for improvement

Messiah University’s Web Services team plays an active role in maintaining accessibility across all web properties. Web Services may, at any time, reach out to content owners or editors with requests for specific accessibility improvements. 

Web Services will monitor the site using accessibility tools such as DubBot and other auditing methods to identify areas of concern. Content owners and editors are expected to collaborate with Web Services to implement any necessary changes.

Additional resources

To support all web content creators and editors in ensuring accessibility, the following resources are available:

  • WCAG 2.0 Guidelines: WCAG 2.0 Overview
  • Alt Text Best Practices: WebAIM Alt Text Guidelines
  • Accessible Headings and Structure: W3C Headings Guide
  • Messiah University’s Accessibility Training: [Link to internal accessibility training resources]
  • DubBot Accessibility Tool: [Link to DubBot tool for monitoring accessibility issues]

By adhering to these practices, Messiah University ensures that our digital presence reflects our commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and a high-quality user experience for all visitors.