Accessibility Statement
In designing its Web site, EDC follows guidelines aimed at ensuring that the site is accessible to all individuals. We have paid particular attention to making the site accessible for individuals with visual and physical disabilities and those using older technology and slow Internet connections.
These guidelines are based on federal requirements outlined in Section 508—the "Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards," authorized by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board—as well as recommendations of The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Our approach to Web site accessibility is informed by staff in Editing and Design Services as well as EDC experts in assistive technology.
Here are some examples of accessibility features of the EDC Web site:
To comply with Section 508
- Non-text elements: All images have alt tags and specifications for height/width sizes.
- Color: When color is used to convey information, we've included redundant features that convey the same information without the use of color.
- Data tables: Row and column headers are identified in the HTML code.
- Navigation: We've posted a text-only site map, which provides navigation throughout the EDC site.
Additional Priorities Recommended by W3C
Priority 1:
- Language: We strive to use the clearest and simplest language appropriate for the site's content.
Priority 2:
- Browsing: We've avoided pop-up/new windows for the most part; when they are used (for example, as an option on our content tours), the user is notified and given an alternate way to navigate the site.
- Links: We've clearly identified the target of each link and avoided using the same text for different targets. Or, we've used <title> with <a href> to specify the target. Example: <a href="mosaic_issue2.html" title="Read Online Communities article in Mosaic">More</a>
- Fonts: We've avoided the use of deprecated tags, opting instead for style sheets, and have implemented relative font sizing.
Priority 3:
- Consistency: We've maintained a consistent style of presentation throughout the site.
- Graphics: On some pages, we've added graphic presentations to supplement text when they can improve or facilitate comprehension of the page.
As technology develops, we will update our site with new elements to provide a greater range of access. If you have any questions or comments about the accessibility of this Web site, please contact David Moore at dmoore@edc.org.