The NCIP Hub strives to serve all users including those with disability. Members are encouraged to make content contributions to serve those with disabilities. Many resources are available to make contributions accessible. Information is provided here to assist you in making your electronic information and content accessible. User/members can contribute additional resources related to making content accessible to the NCIP Hub user group as a resource or collection post.
Understanding Section 508
In 1998, Congress amended Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to require that federal agencies make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. Specifically, Section 508 requires that when federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology, federal employees with disabilities and individuals with disabilities, who are members of the public seeking information or services from a federal agency, have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to that provided to individuals who do not have disabilities.
The legal requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are defined by a series of laws, regulations, and standards as a result of the amendments instituted in 1998. In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) works with organizations around the world to evolve strategies, guidelines, resources, recommendations, and ultimately new, improved standards to help make the Web more accessible to people with disabilities. The resulting W3C recommendations for standards may eventually become part of a revised set of standards for Section 508 law. Section508.gov provides information on the standards, regulations and laws pertaining to Section 508. The Web Accessibility Initiative is a body of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) dedicated to discussing and setting standards for Web accessibility.
Resources to Make Documents and Content Accessible
HHS Guidelines to Making Documents and Content Accessible
A Collection of Videos and Templates to Make Content Accessible
Creating Structured MS Word Documents for Improved Accessibility
Making Accessible PowerPoint Presentations
Approaches to PDF Accessibility
Adobe Acrobat Training Resources
Invisible Content for Screen Readers
A matrix of Disabilities to be Considered when Designing for Accessibility