Guidance for Universal Design

Accessibility by Design Guidance for Universal Design

Universal design is a proactive approach to creating electronic materials that benefits all – faculty, staff and students. It streamlines content editing, makes materials more usable for everyone, and reduces the need for last-minute accommodations for students with disabilities.

Top 5 Things You Can Do

Recognize text in scanned PDFs
Make links descriptive
Use headings for structure
Use colors with care
Describe simple images

Where to Find Support

Accessibility by Design Website – tutorials, videos, training
Electronic Accessibility Rubric – prioritize content and universal design features
Email CSU IT Accessibility Support with questions about
- Priorities and expectations
- Website accessibility and SiteImprove access
- Procurement process and VPAT questions
- Documents (after website tutorials attempted)
- Complex and STEM content
Faculty Responsibilities – student accommodations
TILT Caption Support – multimedia course content; student accommodations only
Email CSU Online’s Faculty Support team – online course content