Non-text content issues are among the most common accessibility problems. They usually affect images, icons, infographics, controls, charts, and other visual elements that need meaningful text alternatives.
Use alt text intentionally
If an image communicates meaning, it needs alternative text that conveys the same purpose to users of assistive technology.
If an image is purely decorative, it should usually be hidden from assistive technology instead of being announced with unnecessary or distracting text.
Functional images and icons
If an image or icon acts like a button or link, the accessible label should describe the action or outcome, not the visual appearance of the element.
- Bad: magnifying glass icon
- Good: Search
- Bad: blue arrow
- Good: Open report
Complex visuals
Charts, diagrams, and infographics often require more than short alt text. In those cases, provide a nearby summary, a structured explanation of the key information, or a text alternative that communicates the same meaning.
Common mistakes
The most common problems include missing alt text, redundant alt text, incorrect labels on clickable icons, and decorative graphics being announced unnecessarily by screen readers.
These mistakes often appear small in isolation, but they can create major usability issues when repeated across templates and workflows.
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