Ohio University website ranks in top 10 for digital accessibility

Ohio University’s website was ranked in the top 10 for digital accessibility by analysts at the University of Illinois. The website ranked seventh out of 151 reviewed university websites across the U.S. for accessibility compliance. 

“We’re proud to be recognized for progress we’ve made in making our websites accessible for all,” Chris Ament, Chief Information Officer, said. “Making an accessible website requires intentional alignment of technology and content development, and we’re fortunate to have strong partnership and commitment to digital accessibility and inclusivity across the many departments that contribute to OHIO’s website.”

The Mid-American Conference ranked number one overall for best websites, with OHIO placing third within the MAC. 

The Russ College of Engineering and Technology came in first among the OHIO colleges evaluated, with the College of Arts and Sciences and the Graduate College placing second and third, respectively.

The University of Illinois team presented their findings during the Educause 2020 conference in October. They evaluated university websites based on the university home pages, college home pages, admissions and financial aid pages, and disabilities services pages.

Evaluators examined the websites on criteria like the existence of alternative text for images which allows people with visual difficulties who rely on screen reading software to use the internet to hear a description of that image. 

In the presentation, the team explained the value of developing websites that includes this so people can easily use websites without assistance. 

For more information on OHIO’s commitment to digital inclusion, visit the IT digital accessibility website. Members of the University community are welcome to join the OHIO Digital Accessibility Network (OHIO-DAN).