In this chapter
· Introduction to what is meant by accessibility and access to information on the Internet for people with disabilities
· US Federal Regulations for accessibility
· How to begin the task of creating accessible Internet based content
· Being an advocate for accessible content
Since the Internet was founded, it has become an easy way to publish and locate information.
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, something is accessible when it can be “easily obtained.”[1] When information on the Web is accessible, everyone can find and use it.
Accessibility today has two meanings for Web content:
Information is accessible when it meets U.S. federal regulations for Web content. As of June 25, 2001, federally maintained Web sites and networks are required to comply with these accessibility standards.
Information is also accessible when it achieves the highest level of usability. In addition to federal regulations, there are many more suggestions that help everyone to find and use Web-based information. For additional information, contact the W3C® or visit http://www.w3.org/WAI.
In this book, the accessibility problem is introduced and comprehensive information is provided to assist your organization in producing and maintaining accessible content.