Accessible Excel (implementation guide)

5.3. Layout

Text cells are located before illustrations, diagrams and text fields on a spreadsheet and are organised in a logical sequence one below the other.

What is meant by this?

In Excel, illustrations, diagrams and text fields can be inserted into tables. If these elements are on the same spreadsheet, it is important to arrange them in a logical order. It is recommended that text cells are placed before these elements to ensure readability and coherence of the information. By observing these arrangement principles, the Excel spreadsheet remains clear and provides a clear presentation of the data and visual elements.

Why is it important?

The arrangement of text cells before visual elements such as illustrations, diagrams and text fields in Excel is particularly important if users are using a voice output or a screen reader. As text cells are read aloud first, this arrangement enables seamless and comprehensible processing of the information for screen reader users.

In addition, illustrations and text fields should be regarded as supplementary elements that should have less relevance in Excel. It is therefore advisable to place them after the main information in text cells to ensure the clarity and readability of the table.

How can I implement/check it?

To ensure that the text cells are arranged in front of visual elements such as illustrations, diagrams and text fields, and to check the relevance and structure of the Excel spreadsheet, you can follow the steps below:

1. Check the arrangement of the text cells and make sure that they are positioned in front of the visual elements.
2. Make sure that the illustrations and text fields are regarded as supplementary elements and are positioned accordingly in the table so as not to impair readability.
3. Check that the diagrams are sensibly and logically placed in relation to the table data to ensure a clear connection and presentation of the data.