Datasheet

27.2.2.4 Formatting text
After you create text equivalents or alternatives for non-text objects, ensure that the text is clearly written
and easy to read. Observe the following design guidelines:
• Use a larger font.
Although people with visual impairments can use the Zoom feature to increase the size of the report,
they will not need to magnify the report as much if the font size is larger. For example, chart labels
or legends can appear in a small font by default. For general legibility, it is good practice to use a
font larger than 8 point. For accessibility, ensure that text is larger than 11 point.
• Use a "sans serif" font.
Simple fonts such as Arial and Helvetica can be easier to read than serif fonts like Times or Palatino.
• Choose left or justified alignment.
Left-aligned or justified text is easier to read than centered or right-aligned text.
• Ensure that text follows the guidelines for color usage. For details, see Color.
Note:
You can allow users to choose different font settings using a parameter and conditional formatting. For
details, see Accessibility and conditional formatting.
27.2.2.5 Finding the right balance between text and non-text objects
Text equivalents are very flexible and often the best solution for accessibility, but they are not always
necessary or preferred.
Not all non-text objects require text equivalents. You need to include text alternatives only for non-text
objects that provide information or navigation elements that the user cannot do without. Images used
for decorative purposes do not need a text description. If a report has a watermark image that acts as
a background for the data, you do not need to provide a text equivalent. Adding text descriptions for
decorative objects can produce unnecessary clutter.
Text versions of visual or auditory objects in reports should be used as a complement to the object—not
as a replacement. You do not need to remove non-text objects. Visual objects in reports can be very
helpful, especially for people with learning disabilities such as attention deficit disorder, or for people
who are deaf. People with hearing impairments may be accustomed to visual communication such as
sign language, and may find images more useful than text.
No one presentation method can meet the needs of all users. Audio clips can be very useful for people
with visual impairments, but people with hearing impairments will be unable to use them. To help both
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Creating Accessible Reports