Making digital content accessible

Accessibility in digital magazines refers to the design and provision of content that is accessible to all people, including people with disabilities. The goal is to ensure that no one is excluded due to physical, sensory or cognitive limitations. Here are some key aspects to consider when creating and making digital magazines accessible:

Text alternatives for visual content

• Images: Each image should be accompanied by alt text that describes the content or purpose of the image.
• Infographics: It is important that infographics are also available as text versions to make the information they contain accessible.

Structured and understandable content

• Clear structure: Headings, paragraphs and lists should be logically structured to facilitate navigation and understanding.
• Simple language: Use clear and simple language to avoid misunderstandings and make the content accessible to a wider audience.

Compatibility with screen readers

• Screen reader friendly: Ensure that all content, including tables and forms, can be correctly interpreted by screen reader software.
• ARIA roles: Use ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes to make interactive elements accessible to screen readers.

Simple navigation

• Keyboard navigation: All functions and content should be accessible via the keyboard without the need for a mouse.
• Clear navigation structures: Navigation should be logical and consistent, with clear links and menus.

Color contrasts and font size

• High contrast: Use high contrast color combinations to ensure text is legible for people with visual impairments.
• Flexible font sizes: Allow users to adjust the font size without compromising readability or layout.

Subtitles and transcripts for audiovisual content

• Subtitles: Videos should be subtitled to allow access for the hearing impaired.
• Audio descriptions: Audio descriptions should be available for complex visual content.

Avoidance of flashing or animated content

• No flickering: Flashing content can put people with epilepsy at risk and should therefore be avoided.
• Options to disable: Users should have the option to disable animations.

Testing for accessibility

• Automated testing: Use accessibility testing tools to identify issues.
• User testing: Test your content with real users, especially those with disabilities, to ensure that the magazine is truly accessible.

Adhering to these principles will ensure that a digital magazine is accessible to the widest possible audience, which is not only ethically and legally relevant, but also economically beneficial.