Tips to designing accessible tables
In the digital age, accessibility is no longer an option but a necessity. It is important that the content we produce is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities. One crucial aspect of digital content that often poses barriers to accessibility is tables. Here are some best practices to help you create accessible tables.
Use the table tool
Avoid using manual spacing with tabs or spaces to create tables. While they may appear as tables visually, navigating them with a screen reader can be difficult and disorienting. Instead, use the built-in table tool in document programs to create accessible tables.
Avoid the Draw Table Tool
Using the draw table tool creates a graphic rather than a true table, making the table inaccessible to screen reader users. Use the insert table tool instead to create accessible tables.
Add Designated and Descriptive Header Rows
Using clear and descriptive headers for rows and columns makes it easier for screen readers to navigate the table, as they announce the corresponding header before reading the content. This helps screen reader users to make sense of the data.
Provide alt text for images
While it is not best practice, if your table includes images or graphics, ensure you add alternative text. This will allow screen reader users to understand what is being displayed.
Include a descriptive title
Providing a descriptive and meaningful title helps users quickly understand the overall context or purpose of the table.
Keep tables simple
Avoid split cells, merged cells, or nested tables, as they can confuse screen readers. If a table is nested within another table or if a cell is merged or split, the screen reader loses count and can no longer provide helpful information about the table.
Remove blank cells
Ensure your table contains no empty cells, as they can mislead screen reader users into thinking there is no further content. Fill empty cells with either "N/A" or a dash ("-") to indicate there is more to come.
Avoid Blank Rows or Columns
Remove any blank rows or columns, as screen readers keep track of their location in a table. If you require spacing, adjust the line spacing instead.
Do not rely on color alone
Avoid using color as the sole means of conveying meaning. For example, if you create multiple headers through visual styling, a sighted person may find your table visually appealing but a screen reader will not be able to convey the information properly to the user.
If you follow these best practices, you will be able to create tables that are accessible to a diverse range of users. Remember, accessibility is about making sure everyone can access and understand your content, regardless of their abilities.
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