How to Create Accessible Documents
Creating Accessible Documents
All digital documents posted to CWU websites—including PDFs, Word files, PowerPoint presentations, and similar materials—must meet accessibility standards. Documents that are not accessible can create barriers for users who rely on assistive technologies and may not comply with federal and state accessibility requirements.
Whenever possible, create a webpage instead of uploading a document. Webpages are easier for users to access on any device, can be navigated more effectively with screen readers, and are simpler to keep compliant with CWU’s accessibility guidelines.
If you do need to upload a document, ensure that the file is accessible before posting it. This includes using proper heading structure, alternative text for images, meaningful link text, and other accessibility practices. CWU’s accessibility resources provide step-by-step guidance to help you create accessible documents and remediate existing files.
Converting your content into a webpage remains the preferred option whenever feasible—it improves usability, supports accessibility, and provides a more consistent experience for all CWU website visitors.
To support our campus community in creating accessible materials, we’ve compiled links to Section508.gov guidance on how to make common document types accessible. These resources cover step-by-step instructions, checklists, and best practices for:
These links point to authoritative federal guidance and are provided to help CWU content managers meet accessibility requirements and improve usability for all audiences.CWU News
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