RE: Null alt tags for decorative images - Technique H67

[Michael wrote]

In regard to the use of empty strings for image ALTs, I am in agreement
with a number of users that in many cases images are decorative and offer
no additional meaning to a page.





While many images are decorative I believe authors and should step back and
ask themselves why they included the image.  If the image conveys a meaning
like a smiling receptionist – that does convey something about the
company.  Another image of people of different ethnic backgrounds may imply
the company is diverse.  These may be important factors to convey to people
viewing the site and getting people to buy your products.



If an image is used as decorative separator -  a null alt image may be
sufficient if there are also structural elements used to separate the
content such as article, footer, headings, etc.



Jonathan