From Problem to Solution: Remediation Strategies for Accessible PDFs

Handouts

Presented at 10:30am in Penrose 1 on Monday, November 6, 2023.

#37933

Speaker(s)

  • Dax Castro, Accessible Document Specialist, Chax Training and Consulting
  • Chad Chelius, Accessible Document Specialist, Chax Training and Consulting

Session Details

  • Length of Session: 2-day
  • Format: Lab
  • Expertise Level: Intermediate
  • Type of session: Pre-conference

Summary

This 2-day intensive will completely change the way you look at problem-solving for accessible PDF documents. We will show you how to evaluate a document, develop a plan of attack and what to do when you encounter things like infographics, scanned content, charts and graphs, maps, schedules and so many more examples. You will do the work. We will guide you. You will be an accessibility rockstar by the end.

Abstract

In this class, you will learn accessibility workflows that will save you hours of time. Learn advanced techniques for making PDF documents accessible while providing an enhanced user experience. From identifying accessibility barriers to implementing remediation strategies, you will gain a deep understanding of how to create accessible PDFs. By the end of the class, you will have the skills to use basic and advanced tools and techniques for PDF remediation. You will feel confident that your PDFs are compatible with assistive technologies and are accessible to all users, regardless of ability level.

Day 1: You will learn about accessibility barriers, what makes a document accessible, and how to create an accessible workflow. We will cover the Adobe Acrobat interface, tags, table structure, and the 10 most common pitfalls in a PDF and how to fix them.

Day 2: You will spend the entire class focused on several sample documents that will put the skills you have learned to work. We will walk through techniques together and allow you to explore your own while we guide you through the various scenarios.

By the end of this class, you will have a firm understanding of what makes a document accessible and how to ensure a good user experience while meeting WCAG 2.1 compliance.

Keypoints

  1. Accessible documents must include more than passing the Acrobat Checker.
  2. Understanding key techniques for PDF remediation will speed up your workflow.
  3. Knowing how to remediate complex content improves the user experience for everyone.

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning, Mobility, Vision

Topic Areas

Accessible Educational Materials, Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Dax Castro

Dax is an Adobe Certified PDF Accessibility Trainer, Accessible Document Specialist and member of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals. He has more than 25 years experience creating digital content using InDesign, Acrobat and other creative software. Dax specializes in user-centered accessibility approaches that push the envelope of technology to produce more robust accessible documents that still meet Section 508, WCAG 2.0/2.1 and PDF/UA compliance. Dax is also the co-host of the accessibility podcast Chax Chat streaming on all major podcast platforms.

Chad Chelius

Chad Chelius is a trainer, author, consultant, and speaker as well as Director of Training Solutioins and Principal for Chax Training and Consulting. He resides in the Philadelphia area and has been using Adobe products for over 25 years. He began his career in the design and publishing industry. As an Adobe Certified Instructor and consultant he teaches and advises on all Adobe print and web products, specializing in InDesign and InCopy workflows, Illustrator, automation, and PDF accessibility using InDesign, Word, and Adobe Acrobat. He works with clients both large and small in and outside of the United States, helping them to solve design, workflow, and accessibility challenges using Adobe products. Chad is a LinkedIn Learning author and you can connect with him on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Handout(s)