Microsoft Word or other word processors are often used to create all kinds of documents, many of which are then turned into PDF. PowerPoint or Camtasia may be used to create multimedia presentations. There are lots of tools to choose from, but there are also best practices that make a big difference in how usable the resulting content will be.

Give the user a structure to navigate

• Use styles to designate headings, lists, etc,
• Use tables for information that should read row by row
• Use columns for information that should read straight down

Give the document perceivable information

• Provide alt text for images so screenreaders have something to announce
• Provide captioning (not automatic process) to ensure communication access
• Use appropriate fonts, colors, and white space to ensure readability

For detailed information on how to use features check resources like these:

• Information on creating accessible documents from PCC - local trainings
• Description of PDF Accessibility Editor - district wide licensing
• Information on using different versions of Word from WebAIM
• EASI membership - contact DS to get login credentials for a variety of webinar archives

Choosing Content or Service Providers to Adopt

www.pcc.edu/publishers - provides information related to the relative pros and cons of adopting particular materials from publishers such as textbook companion sites, complementary resource libraries, and interactive exercise and test bank options that integrate with pcc learning management systems.