Inclusive Document Design

Key Guidelines

Clear Structure

1. Use Headings
   • Organize content with headings to create a clear structure. Use heading styles (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to define sections and subsections.
2. Consistent Layout
   • Maintain a consistent layout throughout the document to enhance readability and navigation.

Readable Fonts and Formatting

1. Font Choice
   • Use sans-serif fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica for better readability.
2. Font Size
   • Ensure the font size is at least 12pt for body text. Larger font sizes may be necessary for headings and important information.
3. Avoid Excessive Formatting
   • Limit the use of all caps, italics, and underlining, as these can reduce readability.

Color and Contrast

1. High Contrast
   • Ensure high contrast between text and background. Follow the WCAG guidelines for a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.
2. Avoid Color-Only Indicators
   • Use additional indicators like bold text or symbols to convey information, not just color.

Alternative Text for Images

1. Descriptive Alt Text
   • Provide alternative text (alt text) for all images and graphics. Alt text should describe the content and function of the image.
2. Contextual Relevance
   • Ensure alt text provides context on how the image relates to the surrounding content.

Accessible Links

1. Descriptive Links
   • Write clear and descriptive link text that indicates the destination. For example, "Read our accessibility guidelines" instead of "Click here."
2. Consistent Styling
   • Make links visually distinct from other text using color and underlining.

Tables and Lists

1. Use Tables for Data
   • Use tables to present data, not for layout purposes. Ensure tables have clear headers and are properly formatted.
2. Bulleted and Numbered Lists
   • Use lists to organize information clearly and concisely.