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Using Text and Images

The following are baseline requirements for using text and images on the web that comply with Section 508 standards for web-based intranet and internet information and applications.

Web Text

DO:

  • Do use real text rather than text within graphics or logos.

  • Do use brand approved web fonts.

  • Do use sufficient contrast between the text and the background.

DON'T:

  • Don’t rely only on the appearance of the font (color, shape, font variation, placement, etc.) to convey meaning.

  • Don't use blinking or moving text.

  • Don’t use an image to present text, if the same visual presentation can be made using text alone.

Links

DO:

  • Do tell where the link is going using the page title and ensure the link makes sense out of context.

  • Do use the same descriptive text for the same destination.

  • Do check links often to ensure they are not broken.

DON'T:

  • Don’t use: “Click here”, “Read more”, “Continued...”

  • Don't use: “Visit our Contact Us webpage.”

  • Don't open a new window when linking within your site.

Alternative Text

DO:

  • Do provide text alternatives for any non-text content.

  • Do be accurate and equivalent in presenting the same content and function of the image.

  • Do limit alternative text to about 125 characters.*

DON'T:

  • Don’t be redundant or provide the same information as text within the context of the image.

  • Don't use the phrases "image of ..." or "graphic of ..." to describe the image within your site.

* The longdesc attribute also can be used on the image. The value of the longdesc attribute of the img element contains the URL of the long description page.