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Question regarding objects in Microsoft Excel

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From: Wee, Kim (MNIT)
Date: May 19, 2016 7:22AM

Hi all -

Looking for some input from the community regarding objects in Microsoft Excel.

Currently, our training has included adding alternative text to objects, such as images and charts, in a worksheet. After some additional research, and testing, I found that objects in Excel are not available to the keyboard only user or screen reader user - as the object is not in the "grid".

Therefore, what is the purpose of adding alternative text? Should we remove this part from our training and only include a section on adding alternative text within a cell so it is in the grid and hidden behind the object...but available via keyboard and to a screen reader?

Looking forward to your input.

KIM WEE | Webmaster and Accessibility Coordinator
MN.IT Services @ Education
651-582-8548 (w) | <EMAIL REMOVED> <mailto: <EMAIL REMOVED> >