Text alternatives
Providing text alternatives
Images that convey information must have text alternatives that serve the equivalent purpose. Text alternatives make information accessible because text can be changed into other forms people need, such as large print, braille, speech, symbols or simpler language. Accessible images have many benefits:
- A person with a visual disability can use a screen reader to read the text alternative of images.
- A person with a motor disability can use speech input software to put focus onto an image link.
- A person with a learning disability can use reading software to read text aloud.
- Images can be indexed by search engines.
Image text alternatives require context to be tested properly. It is important that the text alternative conveys the same intent and meaning (equivalent purpose) as the image. Sometimes images may seem decorative but are conveying information and vice versa. Testers should never hesitate to question the author of the content on the purpose of images.