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RE: Showing and hiding data

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From: julian.rickards@ndm.gov.on.ca
Date: Jul 25, 2003 6:27AM

Rachel wrote:

> I would like this application to be Section 508
> compliant. Are you saying the app must work with
> JavaScript turned off, in order to be Section 508
> compliant? I thought that wasn't a Section 508
> requirement? (I do know it is a WCAG guideline.)

The use of JavaScript also has its limits in Section 508 too.

I went to http://www.webaim.org/standards/508/checklist and reviewed the
items. Like the WCAG, JavaScript is acceptable but it seems that there are
more WCAG limits than Section 508. There are a couple of subsections that
discuss JavaScript and for the most part, all they say is that the
JavaScript must produce text-based output and that it can be utilized by
assistive technologies. It is the second item that is of concern because it
may be unclear whether a function, such as self-modifying forms, is
acceptable. Testing against JAWS or HPR may have to be performed to
determine this. On the otherhand, if the user is using a non-JS browser such
as Lynx, then none of the JS will work and it will then force you to create
forms that can be used without JS.

You mentioned that your organization has specified that employees use IE as
their browser. Does this also apply to the visually impaired? If not, what
are they using? Would your company be willing to specify which assistive
technologies they are to use? Knowing what the visually impaired in your
company use will enable you to test your app against their technology.

Jules


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