When drafting an email, follow these tips to ensure your message meets accessibility standards:
- Use simple layouts, like a single column
- Avoid tables for layout, use bullets for structure
- Use straightforward language
- Ensure colors meet contrast standards (if using colors other than black text)
- Add alt text to any images in the body of the message
- Use easy-to-read fonts and keep the font size at 12 points or more
- Provide descriptive link text for links
- Make sure any attachments are also accessible
Harvard University's Digital Accessibility Services has helpful information on their site.
Microsoft Outlook
Like other Microsoft products, Outlook has a built-in accessibility checker. You can access it on the Review tab. For full instructions and details, see Microsoft's accessibility checker documentation.
If you use a different program or app for email, check their support site for information on how to ensure your message meets accessibility standards.