Alt text for images

Hey James, wasn't there a browser that added the [ ] brackets around alt text anyway? I seem to remember seeing that somewhere, dunno if it was in the code.

I'm gonna try that out on the next site (just started rewriting), see how that renderd in everyone. Seems like a good idea when the alt text doesn't smoothly flow with the paragraph next to it (as mine often doesn't).

 

Hi, Stomme poes;

I don't remember that, we just applied them as a matter of course.

Yes, that is one benefit -- you can check out the use of square brackets on a page containing a number of images by disabling image rendition on my home page (signature block below).

BTW, I have found the WebbIE Screen Reader to be a very useful FREE Accessibility (Windows based) implementation that displays Web pages by default in enlarged text mode. It can be toggled to graphics mode via toolbar selection and also reads and displays RSS feeds. Image alt text display can be specified via toolbar options selection which produces a fully functional screen reader. It can also be configured as an audio reader. Note: The lead-off link above points to a somewhat outdated page -- I did that because it contains illustrations of WebbIE in action. WebbIE functions perfectly in all current Windows versions. Use this download page - the installation is easy and fast. I have found WebbIE to be a compact and easy to use implementation.

James

 

James, I'm going to be checking that screen reader out. Thanks for the heads up.

 

You are welcome, Dan. Please post your assessment of its value.

James

 

Good thread, I think people should use these tags more correctly too to allow people who are less abled to view/listen to our websites better. In the UK, all commercial websites have to follow some disability guidlines too by law.

 

The first problem I see with it is that it works only with Internet Explorer 6. While I do have that, it's only a standalone "hack". if it worked with any browser, I'd be a LOT happier with it.

 

I have installed and am using the latest version (3.5.1) both on my IE 7 computer and IE6 computer with no problems (so far), Dan. I believe the IE6 specific reference was from a superceded specification page.

Me too. The Support and Help section of the WebbIE About page gives the reasons for using IE Browsers and provides information relating to Opera/Firefox usage problems.

James