Accessible Word (implementation guide)
The implementation aid Word barrier-free serves as support for the Word barrier-free checklist. The order of the aspects and the structure according to categories are the same.
Each aspect is divided into three sections in the implementation guide:
Under the heading "What is meant by this? " you will find a detailed description of the aspect to be ticked off. The section "Why is it important?" describes which barriers you are removing with the respective aspect and for which groups of people this is essential. Finally, under the heading "How can I implement/check this?" you will find detailed instructions on how to implement or check the respective aspect.
6. Graphic
6.4. Font graphics
No images or WordArt are used to display text ("font graphics"). Exception: Essential font graphics have a meaningful alternative text. Redundant font graphics are labelled as decorative (see 6.2).
What is meant by this?
It is recommended not to display text using font graphics. Instead, the text should be typed and formatted as actual text. If font graphics are still used, it is necessary to provide an alternative text that describes the content of the graphic. If the font graphics are redundant and contain the same text as the surrounding text, they should be labelled as decorative.
Type graphics are graphics that consist entirely of text characters and symbols and do not contain images, photos or other visual elements. Font graphics are often used for the design of logos, posters, banners and other marketing materials. WordArt is a font graphic that allows users to design text in different styles and shapes.
Why is it important?
The use of font graphics can lead to limitations in the accessibility of digital content, as they cannot be recognised by screen readers or voice output for recipients with visual impairments. If the text is entered and formatted as real text, it can be read more easily by assistive devices. However, if written graphics are used, it is important to provide alternative text to ensure that the content of the graphic can be understood by all recipients.
How can I implement/check it?
To avoid font graphics in Word, you should enter and format the text as real text instead of inserting it as an image or WordArt. If you do use font graphics, you can enter an alternative text by right-clicking on the graphic and selecting "Alternative text". Enter a description of the text in the graphic in the "Description" field.
If the font graphics are redundant, you can mark them as decorative by right-clicking on the graphic and selecting "Mark as decorative".