Accessible Excel (implementation guide)
The implementation aid Excel barrier-free serves as support for the Excel barrier-free checklist. The order of the aspects and the structure according to categories are the same.
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.
3. Spreadsheet
3.7. Heading/Instruction
If there is a visual heading and/or instructions on the spreadsheet, these are located in cell A1. The title corresponds to the spreadsheet title (in a longer form if necessary).
What is meant by this?
If there is a visual heading or instructions, these are always positioned in cell A1. The heading placed in cell A1 corresponds to the title of the spreadsheet, which may also be in a more detailed form.
Why is it important?
It enables non-sighted users to orientate themselves better in the Excel spreadsheet and to grasp the content more easily. By placing the visual heading and/or instructions in cell A1, screen reader users can quickly identify the information, as most screen readers automatically start with cell A1 and read out the information contained there first. This standardised format ensures that the necessary contextual information is readily available for the correct interpretation of the spreadsheet, regardless of individual limitations. Consistency and clear structuring improves accessibility and ensures equal approval of the information in the Excel spreadsheet.
How can I implement/check it?
To ensure that the visual heading and/or instructions are placed in cell A1, you can follow the steps below:
- Check whether the heading and instructions are actually in cell A1. Make sure that no other information occupies cell A1.
- Make sure that the heading and instructions are clear and precise to adequately describe the content of the spreadsheet.