In the digital age where information dissemination happens at the click of a button, it’s imperative to ensure all content is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. One format that frequently carries important information is the Portable Document Format, better known as PDF. PDFs are extensively used in both professional and educational spheres due to their easy distribution and compatibility across platforms. However, ensuring PDF accessibility can be a challenge.
This blog post will present a comprehensive guide on making PDFs inclusive.
Use A PDF Viewer
The React viewer is an excellent tool for viewing PDF documents in a web application. It’s written in React.js, a JavaScript library known for creating user-friendly interfaces. Beyond its primary function, React PDF Viewer offers several features that enhance PDF accessibility. For example, it supports keyboard interactions, allowing navigation through the document using only the keyboard. It is crucial for those with motor impairments who may find it challenging to use a mouse.
Furthermore, the tool also provides a function for text selection, enabling the use of text-to-speech software for visually impaired users.
Provide Text Equivalents
Text equivalents, or alt text, is essential for users who rely on screen readers. These programs interpret and read out the text embedded in a document, but they can’t interpret images, charts, or other visual elements.
Hence, every visual element in your PDF should have an accompanying descriptive text to convey the same information. Remember, an image is worth a thousand words, but only if you can see it.
Maintain A Logical Reading Order
When you design a PDF, it’s essential to ensure the content follows a logical reading order. For users relying on assistive technologies, the order of elements in your PDF affects how the content is presented.
PDF readers typically read content in the order it was added, which may not always coincide with visual layout. To create a logical reading order, use tools such as the ‘Order Panel’ in Adobe Acrobat, which helps to arrange your content appropriately.
Use Accessible Fonts And Colors
When it comes to text, the choice of font and color can significantly affect readability. Avoid using fonts with extravagant styling, as they can be difficult to read for people with visual impairments.
Similarly, color choice matters. Not everyone perceives colors in the same way, so it’s essential to ensure your text has high contrast against its background. This consideration helps those with color blindness or low vision to read your content more comfortably.
Implement Proper Tagging
Proper tagging in a PDF document helps provide structure and enable navigation for those using screen readers.
Tags identify the different sections of your PDF – headings, paragraphs, tables, etc., and make it easier for assistive technology to interpret the content. Most PDF authoring tools, including Adobe Acrobat, have in-built functionalities to add and edit tags in your document.
Use Simple Language
Ensuring PDF accessibility isn’t just about the technical aspects of document creation. The language you use is equally important especially in text to speech software. Aim to use simple, clear language that is easy to understand.
Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and if you do use it, ensure to provide a clear definition or explanation.
In Conclusion
In an inclusive society, everyone should have equal access to information. Making your PDFs accessible is a step towards achieving this goal. By utilizing tools like React PDF Viewer and adopting practices such as providing text equivalents, maintaining a logical reading order, using accessible fonts and colors, implementing proper tagging, and using simple language, you can ensure your PDF documents are inclusive for everyone. Remember, accessibility is not just a courtesy, but a right.