WebAIM - Web Accessibility In Mind

E-mail List Archives

Re: ALT Text - CMS Problem

for

From: Bevi Chagnon | PubCom
Date: Apr 15, 2011 4:09PM

Ah.
So you're using a web-CMS.
I work with high-end ones that hold everything the organization creates, not
just web pages, but every document, graphic, etc.

I think the best solution, then, is what was suggested earlier: alter the
CMS to accept " " ALT text, and teach everyone how to write ALT text.

I give my clients this book to help them write ALT text:

"Read Me First! A Style Guide for the Computer Industry," by Sun Technical
Publications. 3rd Edition.
http://www.informit.com/store/product.aspx?isbn=0137058268

Chapter 13 covers writing ALT text for graphics and it's quite good. The
remaining book has chapters on basic writing, document structure, and more.
(Note: earlier editions of the book do not have this section on Alt text.)

Also available electronically as an e-book or through Safari Books Online.

Some times, now matter how hard we try to educate folks about writing ALT
text, a book is able to get the message through. Maybe because it's in
print, it has the authority that you and I don't have!

— Bevi
___________________
Bevi Chagnon / PubCom
Government publishing specialists, trainers, consultants
Print, press, web, Acrobat PDF and 508
April-May Classes: www.pubcom.com/classes Section 508 Accessibility for
Word, InDesign, and Acrobat PDF