Schedule

Vegetable Crops Hotline Newsletter Publication Schedule and Accessibility Compliance

Accessibility Compliance Guidance for Authors

Here are some simple steps you can take to make sure your publication meets the accessibility requirements.

Text

• Don’t overuse italics because they reduce readability.
• Avoid ALL CAPS for text emphasis.
• Web page text should NOT be in red or other non-black and white text colors.

Images

• Provide alt text for every image, chart, graph, or figure. Alt text should clearly describe the purpose or meaning. (Example: “Line graph showing enrollment increasing from 2020 to 2026.”)
• If the image is decorative, note “decorative” as the alt tag. Don’t make this the norm for all images.
• For complex images, include:
  • The key takeaway of the image.
  • Any info a disabled user would need to understand.
• Don’t put important text inside images. If the text is important, type it normally on the webpage so everyone can read it.
• Utilize Microsoft CoPilot to save time creating Alternative Text and Image Descriptions for images.
• For detailed instructions, please visit the Using Microsoft CoPilot to Create Alternative Text for Images webpage.

Hyperlinks

Use meaningful link text that explains the destination.

• Good: “Download the full report on climate trends.”
• Avoid: “Click here” or “Read more.”

Headings & Structure

• Use a clear heading hierarchy in your document (H1, H2, H3).
• Subsections should use H2/H3, not bold text.

Write in clear, plain language, as readability is part of Purdue’s ADA compliance.

Charts and Tables

• If you include data tables, ensure:
  • Columns/rows are labeled with headers.
  • No merged cells.
  • The table has a clear purpose statement.
• For charts or complex images, include:
  • The key takeaway of the chart as text.
  • Additional text for any numbers or trends a sighted user would understand.

Web Videos

• Ensure all videos have:
  • Accurate closed captions.
  • Audio descriptions for essential on‑screen information.

Web Color & Visuals

• Avoid using color alone to convey meaning (e.g., “text items should NOT be in red”).
• Reference the Purdue Colors Brand Guide

These steps can help ensure your work meets federal ADA requirements and Purdue University’s WCAG 2.1 AA standards for digital accessibility, including all images, charts, and web content.