How do I create accessible documents, including spreadsheets and forms?

There are many excellent resources on the web that explain what is meant by the term 'accessible document', and offer information and advice on how to create them. Making documents accessible is good practice and can benefit all users regardless of ability.

Creating an accessible form can seem tricky. One of the best pieces of advice is to keep the content and overall layout simple. If the form is over-designed then it is going to require more work to complete - especially if the person completing it is using magnification and screen reading software. Bear in mind that people often don't have a lot of time to fill forms in - so keeping things simple benefits everyone.

Accessible Digital Office Document (ADOD) project

The Accessible Digital Office Document project website can help you create accessible documents, spreadsheets, presentations and PDFs using a variety of common Office software, including Microsoft Office (2003, 2007, and 2010), Google Docs, Open Office and iWork. It provides step by step guides, which include useful screen shots.

The European Blind Union (EBU)

The European Blind Union website has a number of guidelines on making information accessible for all, including how to make electronic and printed documents accessible.

UK Association of Accessible Formats (UKAAF)

The UK Association of Accessible Formats (UKAAF) website promotes standards and best-practice for the production and provision of accessible formats. UKAAF produce a number of guides, including how to produce clear print or large print documents.

RNIB

Have a range of guides for making things accessible including documents, digital information, social media and meetings/events. You can find them on the Creating accessible information page of our website.