Here's a more detailed look at what AODA software does:

1. Identifying and Fixing Accessibility Issues:

Accessibility Checkers:

These tools analyse PDFs to identify common accessibility problems, such as missing alternative text for images, incorrect heading structures, and poor colour contrast.

Tagging and Remediation:

AODA software often includes features to add tags to PDF elements, which helps screen readers interpret the document's structure and content. It can also help fix existing tagging issues or create new tags where needed.

Automated and Manual Adjustments:

Some software can automate certain accessibility fixes, while others require manual adjustments to ensure optimal accessibility.

2. Key AODA Standards and Features:

WCAG Compliance:

AODA software typically focuses on meeting the requirements of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA.

WCAG Compliance:

AODA software typically focuses on meeting the requirements of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA.

PDF/UA (Universal Access):

Many tools also support the PDF/UA standard, which is a subset of PDF that's specifically designed for accessibility.

Alternative Text:

Ensuring that images have descriptive alternative text is crucial for accessibility, and AODA software often helps with this process.

Heading Structure:

Proper use of headings helps screen readers understand the document's organization and flow, and AODA software can help with this.

Reading Order:

AODA software ensures that the document's elements are presented in a logical reading order, which is important for screen reader users.

Tables and Lists:

Proper tagging of tables and lists is essential for accessibility, and AODA software can assist with this.

3. Examples of AODA Software:

Adobe Acrobat Pro:

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC has built-in tools for checking and repairing PDF accessibility, including an accessibility checker and a tag tree editor.

Other Tools:

There are various third-party PDF accessibility checkers and remediation tools available, such as axesPDF and CommonLook PDF (CL PDF Validator).

By using AODA software, organizations can ensure that their PDFs meet accessibility standards and are usable by people with disabilities, thus promoting inclusivity and compliance with AODA and other accessibility laws.