Accessible document remediation
Making your existing documents work for more people
If you already have documents designed and in use, accessible document remediation adds the behind-the-scenes structure needed for assistive technology — without changing how your document looks.
Remediation helps people who use screen readers or text-to-speech software access your content properly, improving usability while protecting your brand and reputation.
What remediation involves
Accessible document remediation focuses on the invisible structure of a document. Most changes are hidden from view and don’t affect the visual design. This includes:
Setting the heading hierarchy up properly
Setting the correct reading order
Setting up bookmarks if needed for navigation
Well-structured lists, tables, and links
Adding tags so screen readers can interpret content
Applying language and document metadata
Adding meaningful alt text for images
Testing with screen readers and accessibility checkers
If needed, I’ll also flag any visual accessibility issues (such as contrast or layout challenges) and talk you through options — so you can decide the best way forward.
Start with the source file (best option)
The best and most sustainable way to remediate a document is from the original source file, such as:
Adobe InDesign
Microsoft Word
Microsoft PowerPoint
Working from the source file allows accessibility to be built correctly into the document structure. It also means future updates are straightforward — accessibility work carries through when content changes.
If a document is updated regularly, this approach saves time, cost, and frustration in the long run.
What if the document was made in Canva or only exists as a PDF?
If remediation is done from a Canva file or an exported PDF, accessibility elements have to be applied after the design is finished. This means:
Accessibility work must be redone every time the document is updated
Changes can’t be transferred to future versions
The process is more limited and less flexible
A fully compliant WCAG and PDf/UA document may not be possible
This is the most limited option, because:
I can only add elements for assistive technology
The visual design or layout can't be changed in a pdf
Some accessibility issues may not be fully fixable
Let’s work out the right approach
Remediation doesn’t have to be complicated — but choosing the right method matters.
Get in touch to talk through your document, understand the process, and get an estimate for your project.
Clear guidance, no judgement — just practical next steps.
