Program Description

Recorded: March 5, 2025 – Creating a quality document involves more than typing the right words. If we want information to reach the widest range of people, then the content must be accessible. Creating accessible documents is important for more than people with visual impairments, it impacts people from all walks of life. People with physical limitations, learning disabilities and even people without disabilities benefit from accessible content. Prioritizing accessibility is essential not only for individuals, but also for businesses and society.
This webinar will discuss the basic principles of creating accessible documents. Examples will be provided in Microsoft Word on a MacBook Pro. The concepts presented will also carry over to other platforms. The areas addressed in the training include the following:
- Visual Presentation: Participants will learn about font size and style, color contrast, and color conveying meaning.
- Document Formatting: Participants will learn how built-in features provide accessible document navigation, and best practices for hyperlink formatting.
- Alt-text: Participants will learn about alt-text and why it is needed.
- Accessibility Checkers: Participants will learn about built-in accessibility checker features and additional manual checking to be considered.
Presenter
Leilani Carlson, Maine CITE Assistive Technology Specialist – Leilani joined the state assistive technology (AT) program, Maine CITE, in July 2022. At Maine CITE, she has focused on assistive technology and access to resources to support Mainers with disabilities live more independently and improve their quality of life. For 10 years prior to joining Maine CITE, she was the Maine AgrAbility Project Coordinator providing education, resource information, and direct assistance to agricultural workers with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Before working in disability services, she worked in the environmental engineering and consulting industry for more than 15 years.
Resources
Please note that a certificate of attendance is not provided for watching the recorded webinar. To receive a certificate of attendance you must have attended the live training, completed the evaluation, and included your email address.
Resources discussed in webinar:
Creating Accessible Documents – The Basics (Part 1) PowerPoint – PDF
Creating Accessible Documents – The Basics (Part 1) Handout – PDF
Rev: 4/22/2025