Karlen Communications
Research Projects
I began researching the accessibility of PDFs from the perspective of those of us with disabilities. This grew into questioning how we deal with complex graphics and data tables in any format. My research is ongoing and tries to provide insight into how those of us who use screen readers and other adaptive technologies consume digital content. It is clear from the research to date that much more work must be done. I believe the first step is not only having us at the table but listening to our voices. Hopefully, this research is a start toward that goal. “Nothing without us”!
People Describing Themselves during Meetings/Conferences
Survey results for an ongoing research project on self-description during meetings and conference presentations.
People Describing Themselves during Meetings and Conference Presentations 2022 Survey Results.
Alt Text Survey
Survey Results Posted
PDF Remediators Survey Results 2017 tagged PDF.
Accessibility of PDF Forms Survey Results 2017 tagged PDF.
PDF and the User Experience Survey 2016 - tagged PDF.
PDF and the User Experience Survey 2015 - tagged PDF.
Survey Results Presented at Conferences
University of Guelph Accessibility Conference 2018.
CSUN 2017.
Accessing Higher Ground 2016.
ICCHP 2016.
University of Guelph Accessibility Conference, 2016 - this is a link to the slides used for the session.
Books and Online Courses on Accessible Document Design and PDF
Karen McCall has two books on accessible PDF and accessible document design: "Accessible and Usable PDF Documents: Techniques for Document Authors" and "Styles in Word: A Primer for Accessible Document Design." Both books are available through the Karen McCall School on Teachable. There are two self-paced online courses in the Karen McCall School: Styles in Word: A Primer for Accessible Document Design and Accessible Fillable PDF Forms.
PDF Remediation Solutions
I recommend PubCom.com for InDesign accessibility, remediation and training: PubCom.com (They also have general remediation services)
As of September 2018, I am working with Open Access Technologies Inc (OAT) as a Senior Advisor, Accessible Document Design. Open Access Technologies provides automated tools for remediating high volume documents. They can also transform documents from one format to another, for example, from conforming accessible PDF to accessible EPUB.
ISO 14289 or PDF/UA Resources
Tagged PDF Best Practices Guide: Syntax, from the PDF Associaiton
PDF/UA Technical Implementation Guide from AIIM
PDF/UA Reference Suite from the PDF Association
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