This is particularly disappointing, as blind and partially sighted people have so much to gain from being able to browse and shop online. Careless coding included image files that were not supported by 'alternative text', which access technology relies on to convert the image into something meaningful to blind internet users. Failure to provide screen designs that were easy to read for partially sighted people was also common. Although companies are not legally obliged to stick to the WAI guidelines, Part III of the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act says that companies should make 'reasonable adjustments' to ensure people with disabilities are able to use their services. The tests look for the most basic accessibility, and it is shocking to discover that the majority of high street stores have failed to make any accommodation for their blind and partially sighted online customers.
Contrast is the most important factor to consider when designing sites that everyone can use.
The 'alternative text' attribute of the image tag exists to provide a voiced description of the image for people using speech synthesis software. Some blind people may be using software that cannot read frames. If pages are written in anything other than HTML, this may exclude some people from the site. Quick and easy to use, this tests almost any website for basic design features that may cause problems for disabled visitors. RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information to anyone with a serious sight problem.