Apply AODA Best Practices

Creating accessible and well-structured web content ensures your website is inclusive, usable, and compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). 

Accessibility Guidelines (Based on U of T AODA Requirements)

1. Use proper headings for structure
   1. Start with Heading 2 (H2) under the page title, then proceed hierarchically (e.g., H2 > H3 > H4)
   2. Avoid skipping heading levels to maintain clear document structure.
2. Provide meaningful alternative text (alt text) for images
   1. Alt text must convey the image’s purpose or content.
   2. Alt text should be concise and meaningful (e.g., "Map of UTM campus showing accessible entrances").
3. Use descriptive link text
   1. Links should describe the destination or purpose.
   2. Use phrases like “Download the course outline (PDF)” or “Visit the faculty research page.”
4. Ensure multimedia content is accessible
   1. Add closed captions to videos.
   2. Provide text transcripts for audio and video files when possible.
5. Organize content for readability
   1. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and numbered lists.
   2. Add headings to guide the reader through long pages.
6. Avoid uploading inaccessible documents
   1. Do not upload scanned or image-only PDFs.
   2. Use accessible PDFs with searchable, tagged text, or link to HTML content.
7. Keep content updated and relevant
   1. Remove or revise outdated information.
   2. Include the last updated date where applicable.
8. Follow the U of T Digital Design Standards
   1. Maintain a consistent layout and styling.
   2. Use approved templates and themes when possible.

Refer to the official Website Accessibility Compliance Requirements.