Week 7 Accessibility Review Questions

Question 1

Name five ways in which the Section 508 requirements are different from WCAG Single-A compliance.

Section 508 requires:

1. When a web page requires that an applet, plug-in or other application be present on the client system to interpret page content, the page must provide a link to a plug-in or applet that complies with §1194.21(a) through (l).
2. When electronic forms are designed to be completed on-line, the form shall allow people using assistive technology to access the information, field elements, and functionality required for completion and submission of the form, including all directions and cues.
3. Pages shall be designed to avoid causing the screen to flicker with a frequency greater than 2 Hz and lower than 55 Hz.
4. A method shall be provided that permits users to skip repetitive navigation links.
5. When a timed response is required, the user shall be alerted and given sufficient time to indicate more time is required.

Question 2

Do you think the HWG's web accessibility (which is basically "WCAG Single-A") is sufficient for the needs of an organization like the Guild? If not, how would you extend the policy?

I think the Guild should do more than WCAG Single-A since they are an organization that is teaching techniques and technology to Web designers. BUT, since I don't know what it really would entail to get the site Triple-A compliant I can only say that it would be nice to see Triple-A compliance.

Question 3

What are the consequences of not having an accessibility policy in place?

For a small company like Mainz Press, LLC where only I do the markup, it would not be such a big deal because I know that as I learn more about Web standards I will incorporate this knowledge into my design. I don't have to educate or require anybody to create accessible design.

But for a large company or government agency the implications could be serious. When you have numerous people creating Web pages you can quickly loose control of it's accessibly as well as it's look. Policies would ensure that every designer knew what was required of them.

As of June of 2001, all government Web sites must conform to Section 508 standards and any contractor doing Web development for the Federal government must conform to these standards.

Companies could be hit in the pocket book if their site is not accessible; this could be due to lost revenue or a law suit because an employee could not do their job.