508 Accessibility: Key to dos.

Some key 508 accessibility requirements for government websites:

1. Provide text alternatives for non-text content, such as images and icons, and ensure that they accurately describe the content and function of the non-text element.

2. Ensure that the site is fully navigable using a keyboard, with clear visual focus indicators and logical tab order.

3. Use clear and descriptive labels and instructions for all form fields, including input validation and error handling.

4. Provide clear and specific error messages for invalid form inputs.

5. Ensure that the site is compatible with screen readers and other assistive technology, and that all functionality can be accessed using assistive technology.

6. Ensure that the site's color contrast meets accessibility standards, and that text is easy to read for users with visual impairments.

7. Ensure that the site's text is resizable up to 200% without loss of content or functionality.

8. Use ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes to provide additional information about the structure and functionality of the site.

9. Use closed captions for videos and audio descriptions for images, and ensure that all multimedia is accessible to users with disabilities.

10. Use clear and simple language, avoiding jargon and technical terms.

11. Provide clear instructions and information about the site's purpose and functionality.

12. Ensure that the site is accessible to users with cognitive and learning disabilities, with clear and simple navigation and layout.

13. Use clear and simple navigation, with consistent and logical headings, labels, and links.

14. Provide clear and easy-to-use search functionality.

15. Provide a clear and easy-to-use feedback mechanism for users to report accessibility issues or request assistance.

16. Test the site with real users with disabilities to ensure that it is fully accessible and easy to use.

17. Provide a clear, concise, and easy to find information about accessibility, including contact information for requesting assistance or reporting accessibility issues.

18. Have an accessibility statement that explains the level of accessibility of the website and any known issues, and gives clear instructions on how to request assistance or report issues.

19. Provide a user-friendly mechanism to change the text size and contrast of the website

Note: This is not a definitive list, but a high-level summary of the most important 508 accessibility requirements for government websites. It is always recommended to consult the official documentation and guidelines of 508 accessibility standards. Additionally, the website should comply with WCAG guidelines as well, which is a more comprehensive set of guidelines for accessibility