Using “P.O.U.R.,” here’s how to improve accessibility of your websites and web apps, mobile apps, digital documents such as PDFs and Word documents, online course materials, and social media posts.
(Below the POUR list, I’ve got a simpler “checklist” for you.)
Perceivable
- Provide text alternatives for non-text content (images, icons, charts).
- Provide captions for prerecorded audio and videos.
- Provide audio descriptions for important visual content in videos.
- Make content adaptable so it can be presented in different ways (screen readers, large text) without losing meaning.
- Ensure sufficient color contrast: normal text at least 4.5:1, large text 3:1.
- Don’t rely on color alone to convey information.
Operable
- All functionality must be keyboard-accessible (no mouse-only actions).
- Give users enough time to read and interact with content.
- Avoid content that causes seizures (no flashing more than 3 times per second).
- Provide clear navigation: consistent menus, headings, and links.
Understandable
- Use clear, consistent language and instructions.
- Use a predictable interface where navigation and elements behave consistently.
- Provide input assistance: help users correct errors in forms (like spelling mistakes or missing fields).
Robust
- Ensure content works with current and future user agents (browsers, assistive tech).
- Use standard HTML markup and ARIA roles so screen readers and other tools can interpret content correctly.
Simple Checklist for Implementation
Text & Documents
- Use clear headings and structure (Heading 1, 2, 3).
- Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background.
- Use simple, readable fonts (avoid decorative fonts).
- Provide alt text for all images and graphics.
- Make PDFs, Word docs, and slides accessible (tagged, readable by screen readers).
Multimedia
- Caption all videos, and make sure the captions are accurate.
- Provide audio descriptions for important visual content.
- Ensure audio-only content has a text transcript; make sure auto-generated transcripts are accurate.
Links & Navigation
- Use descriptive link text (“Click here” → “Read the assignment instructions”).
- Ensure navigation menus are consistent and logical.
Interactive Content
- Ensure forms, quizzes, and surveys are keyboard-accessible.
- Label all form fields clearly.
- Avoid content that relies on color alone to convey meaning.
For more on Title II compliance, view ADA.gov’s Fact Sheet: New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments.
