Organizations can ensure compliance with accessibility standards like WCAG when using conditional processing in DITA by following these key practices:

Clear Condition Naming Conventions:

To ensure accessibility compliance when implementing conditional processing in DITA, organizations should establish clear naming conventions for conditions. For example, conditions designed for alternative text should have recognizable and consistent names like “alt-text” or “accessibility-alt.”

Document the Conditions’ Purpose:

Documenting the purpose of each condition is crucial. Include a clear description of when and why to use specific conditions, making it easier for content creators to apply them correctly. This documentation helps maintain alignment with accessibility standards such as WCAG.

Regular Accessibility Audits:

Periodic accessibility audits should be conducted to review content, verify that conditions are correctly applied, and ensure that they meet the WCAG criteria. Audits help identify areas for improvement and maintain accessibility compliance.

Involvement of Accessibility Experts:

Organizations can involve accessibility experts or consultants in the content creation process. These experts can provide guidance, training, and reviews to ensure that the conditions applied align with best practices and accessibility standards.

Example:

An organization is creating DITA-based technical documentation for a software application. To ensure WCAG compliance, they establish a clear condition naming convention: “alt-text” for alternative text conditions. The documentation provides detailed guidance on the purpose of the “alt-text” condition, emphasizing its use for images to ensure accessibility. Periodic accessibility audits are carried out by a dedicated team, which includes individuals with expertise in WCAG guidelines. These audits identify and rectify any issues related to the application of “alt-text” conditions, ensuring that the content remains accessible.