Accessibility, as it pertains to information technology (IT), is about removing barriers that inhibit the access of certain groups, including people with disabilities, mature users, and non-native language learners. When you design or modify software or hardware to allow access by the greatest number of people, you make it accessible.
Checklists and techniques
Accessibility is achieved by following accessibility standards. The standards in the IBM accessibility checklists are based on the US Standards for Electronic and Information Technology, developed by the Access Board for Section 508 of the US Rehabilitation Act, Worldwide Web Consortium (W3C) recommendations, and IBM Research. Following these guidelines can help developers and content providers understand why and what they need to do to make their technology and information accessible to people with disabilities.
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Web checklist
This section provides the implementation and testing techniques and information on tools to help you create accessible Web sites and Web applications.
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Software checklist
In addition to the checklist to help you create accessible software, this section includes resources such as helpful information about software accessibility test tools and additional references on software accessibility issues.
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IBM Lotus Notes® application checklist
In addition to the checklist to help you create Notes applications that will be deployed on the Notes Client or the Web, this section includes additional references on Lotus Notes issues.
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Hardware checklist
This checklist can help you design accessible personal computers and server hardware.
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Hardware Self Contained, Closed Products accessibility
This checklist can help you design accessible copiers, printers, fax machines, and kiosks.
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Documentation checklist
This checklist can help you create accessible product and Web site documentation.