Accessibility Checkers

Creating accessible content is easier now than ever before.  While there are several rules to learn and standards are regularly changing, such as WCAG standards, creating accessible content does not require a specialist. There are plenty of tools to assist you.  Most applications have accessibility checkers build right in.   These make producing accessible content easy.

We commonly make spell checking or grammar checking part of the process in creating a document.  Now it is time to include accessibility checking. 
 

You may notice that with so many accessibility checkers, sometimes they may differ in their analysis. Why should we pay attention to them?  Remember that accessibility standards are changing – they are evolving and regularly improving.  Algorithms can vary between programs and are trying to keep up.  The best course of action is to rely on any and all tools at your disposal.  This way you can work at having the most accessible content as possible.

Schools that take accessibility seriously should have at least three accessibility checkers at your disposal.

Available Accessibility Checkers

MS Word (or MS Office Apps)

Depending on the version, the accessibility checker can be in different locations.  It is most commonly on the “review ribbon”, but earlier versions have it under File.  Be sure to use it whenever you create a word document.

  

Ally

Those gauges next to content indicate the accessibility rating.  

Be sure to click on it and see why it is not dark green (or 100% accessible).  Ally will often direct you on how to improve your content.

Accessibility checker in the LSM HTML Editor

For example:
 Brightspace provide an accessibly checker in their HTML editor in the tools ribbon. The icon looks like an eye with a checkmark next to it. Naturally, if you hover the mouse over the tool buttons, you will see their names pop up. If you select the icon, it will scan the page, identify any issues, and offer advice.

It is important get acquainted with the accessibility checkers and incorporate it in your content creation routine.  It does not take much time to ensure that the content you create is accessible. In fact, the more you use the checkers, you will notice that you will be unconsciously adopting accessible practices when you produce content. This is a skill that will help you and others.