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Re: Accessible Documents - PDF vs. HTML

From: Duff Johnson <duff@duff-johnson.com>
Date: Wed, 15 Jun 2016 15:02:19 +0200
Cc: WAI Interest Group <w3c-wai-ig@w3.org>
Message-Id: <52FD9C95-55DE-48E1-8BE1-895DDFDBB019@duff-johnson.com>
To: "Macintosh, Kristy (OMAFRA)" <Kristy.Macintosh@ontario.ca>
> I am looking for some advice and information. We have eLearning course transcripts that we are working on making fully accessible (conform to WCAG 2.0 Level AA guidelines). The transcripts range in size from 30 -60 pages, have some graphics throughout, a lot of headings and lists, and multiple choice assessment items.
> 
> Questions:
> 
> 1.      What would be a better format for these transcripts? PDF or HTML and why?

Both PDF and HTML can be made accessible. The choice of technology should be dictated by the document’s purpose, intended utilization and target audience, not (only) by accessibility considerations.

If (for example) a fixed layout is important, then PDF is indicated. If the content is somehow dynamic (for example, content should appear / be hidden based on the selected value of the multiple-choice items), then HTML is indicated. 

All the best,

Duff Johnson

PDF Association Executive Director
ISO 32000 (PDF) Intl. Project Co-Leader, US Chair
ISO 14289 (PDF/UA) Intl. Project Co-Leader, US Chair
Independent Consultant

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At the PDF Association...

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Received on Wednesday, 15 June 2016 13:02:52 UTC

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