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An Official Vermont Government Website

Communications

Here are some important areas to explore to develop more accessible communications. Select the different categories to learn best practices and helpful tips.

Best Practices

  • Plain Language

    Plain language is a way of speaking and writing that is easy to understand.

  • Layout

    It is important to develop documents that are not overloaded with information.

  • Type Settings

    Typographic choices are vital to ensuring communications are visually pleasing and easy to read.

  • Color

    It is important to understand that audience members may experience color blindness and/or visual impairment.

  • Hyperlinks

    Hyperlink text should be concise and meaningful.

  • Figures (Pictures, Charts/Graphics, and Icons)

    Figures (pictures, charts/graphics, and icons) are commonly used to help explain your message, but these elements must contain alt text and captions.

  • Tables

    Tables should be used sparingly and only for quantitative data.

  • Printed Materials

    Before sending artwork files out to be printed, it is important to understand that the format and material you choose can impact the accessibility of your final product.

  • Events and Presentations

    Public events and public presentations often draw large audiences, either during the event itself or after when it is shared or posted publicly.

  • Videos and Captions

    State entities frequently produce videos as a way to communicate with the public and consumers of their services.

  • Contracting and Procurement

    All communications that are developed by contracted vendors must follow the best practices outlined above and meet accessibility requirements of Section 504 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (508 Compliance).