10 Accessibility Tips for RSS Feeds
Author: Mathew Pawlina
Creating an RSS feed needs thought. An important consideration to keep in mind is accessibility. Very often in creating the larger picture the small details are missed and the RSS feed does not attain the heights it disserves.
Here are a few tips written by experts on how to maximize the accessibility of your RSS feed.
1. Be sure the document is simple and does not need to be deciphered using a dictionary or style sheet. Ensure that every page is reader friendly and has a structure that includes sub heads and more.
2. Make sure the links are clearly demarcated. Separate individual links by text and spaces.
3. Ensure that links are of relevance and readers can make the connection. Ideally a link should enhance or emphasize a point. No random links should be included.
4. Place links at the top and bottom of each page so that navigation is smooth and easy. Make sure links access content directly each time. And include on each page skip to content links.
5. When images are included ensure that the text explains the images clearly.
6. Distinguish between images tables and columns. Learn all about TH, TD, alternate styling, and SUMMARY attributes.
7. The web page must be usable even in absence of scripts. Think of ways to ensure pages are live at all times and not dependant on Java Script.
8. Think of color blind users and ensure that information is accessible even in absence of color.
9. Validate the document each time and use an external validator too.
10. Keep abreast of new ways of increasing accessibility and apply new trends.
Keep in mind web designing tips and always test the pages using more than one screen reader. Use web accessibility evaluation tools to ensure that the pages meet accessibility guidelines. Keep in mind the basics of web accessibility:
# Pages must be usable by people with disabilities.
# Pages must be user friendly to the young and old.
# Pages should be accessible to people with slow internet connections.
Consult the UAAG at http://www.w3.org/WAI/intro/uaag.php . The User Agent Accessibility Guidelines explains how to increase accessibility to web content.
RSS's main function is efficient content delivery. For a successful RSS feed a fool proof plan must be created after understanding end user needs. Choosing a marketing and publishing tool is important as these help content management and database building and other functions.
