Alternative text for images

Definition

Alternative text for images, often referred to as 'alt text', is a descriptive text that serves as a substitute for images in digital content. It provides context and information about the image, making content accessible to individuals using screen readers or when images cannot be displayed. Alt text plays a critical role in enhancing usability and accessibility, ensuring that all users, regardless of their abilities, can understand and engage with visual content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Alternative text should be concise yet descriptive enough to convey the essence of the image, typically ranging from a few words to a couple of sentences.
2. Effective alt text should avoid phrases like 'image of' or 'picture of' since the screen reader already identifies it as an image.
3. In the context of brand guidelines, including consistent alt text for brand visuals ensures clarity and coherence in messaging across all platforms.
4. Search engines use alt text for indexing images, which can improve search engine optimization (SEO) by helping images appear in search results.
5. For decorative images that do not add informative value, it's recommended to use empty alt attributes (alt="") to prevent unnecessary clutter for screen readers.

Review Questions

• How does alternative text improve accessibility for users with disabilities?
  • Alternative text enhances accessibility by providing descriptive information about images that can be read aloud by screen readers. This allows visually impaired users to understand the content and context of images they cannot see. By implementing effective alt text, designers ensure that all users have equitable access to visual content, making digital experiences more inclusive.
• Discuss how the use of alternative text aligns with the goals of creating effective brand guidelines.
  • Incorporating alternative text into brand guidelines aligns with the goal of maintaining consistency and clarity in branding across digital platforms. It ensures that all visual elements communicate the intended message regardless of the user's ability to view images. Consistent alt text usage also reinforces brand identity while making content accessible to a broader audience, thereby enhancing user experience and engagement.
• Evaluate the potential impact on user engagement if alternative text is poorly implemented or omitted in digital content.
  • If alternative text is poorly implemented or omitted, it can significantly hinder user engagement, particularly among individuals with visual impairments. This exclusion not only alienates a segment of users but also detracts from the overall user experience by failing to convey important information. Furthermore, poor alt text can negatively affect SEO, leading to decreased visibility in search results and diminishing brand reach. Ultimately, neglecting proper alt text can undermine both accessibility efforts and user satisfaction.

Related terms

Accessibility: The design of products, devices, services, or environments for people with disabilities, ensuring equal access to information and functionality.

Screen Reader: Software that enables visually impaired users to read the content of a computer screen through text-to-speech or Braille displays.

Usability:

The ease with which users can interact with a product or system, including how effectively they can navigate and find information.