Object general alt
Description
The object
element in HTML is used to embed various types of content, such as images, videos, PDFs, or other web resources. To ensure accessibility, the object
element should include alternative text or content that provides a meaningful equivalent for users who cannot access the embedded content. This alternative content helps users understand the purpose and context of the object
element if the embedded content is not accessible or fails to load.
Disabilities impacted
- Visual Impairments: Users with visual impairments who rely on screen readers need descriptive alternative text to understand the embedded content’s purpose and context.
- Cognitive Disabilities: Users with cognitive disabilities benefit from clear and concise alternative content that explains the embedded content, reducing confusion.
- Motor Impairments: Users with motor impairments who navigate using keyboards or assistive devices need accessible alternatives to interact with the content effectively.
Why it matters
Providing alternative text or content for <object>
elements ensures that all users, regardless of their abilities or the capabilities of their devices, can access the information or functionality intended by the embedded content. It enhances the accessibility and usability of the webpage, ensuring a better user experience for everyone.
Coding Problems and Solutions
Common Coding Problems
- Missing Alternative Text: The
<object>
element lacks any alternative text or content, leading to accessibility issues. - Inadequate Alternative Content: The alternative content does not provide a meaningful equivalent to the embedded resource.
- Improper Nesting: The alternative content is not properly nested within the
<object>
element.
How to Fix It
Include descriptive alternative text
Ensure that the object
element contains alternative text that describes the purpose and content of the embedded resource.
<object data="chart.svg" type="image/svg+xml"></object>
<object data="chart.svg" type="image/svg+xml">
<p>Interactive chart showing sales data for 2024. <a href="chart.svg">Download the chart</a>.</p>
</object>
Provide meaningful alternative content
The alternative content should provide a meaningful equivalent to the embedded resource, such as a textual description or a link to a downloadable version.
<object data="presentation.pdf" type="application/pdf">
<p>PDF file.</p>
</object>
<object data="presentation.pdf" type="application/pdf">
<p>PDF presentation on company strategy for 2024. <a href="presentation.pdf">Download the presentation</a>.</p>
</object>
Ensure proper nesting
Make sure the alternative content is properly nested within the <object>
element and is easily accessible.
<object data="video.mp4" type="video/mp4"></object>
<p>Your browser does not support the video tag. Please <a href="video.mp4">download the video</a> instead.</p> <!-- Not nested properly -->
<object data="video.mp4" type="video/mp4">
<p>Your browser does not support the video tag. Please <a href="video.mp4">download the video</a> instead.</p>
</object>
Known limitations
- Complex Embedded Content: For complex interactive content, providing an equivalent alternative might be challenging but is necessary for accessibility.
- Browser Compatibility: Different browsers may handle
<object>
elements and their alternative content differently. Thorough testing across multiple browsers and devices is essential. - Dynamic Content: For dynamically loaded content within
<object>
elements, ensure that alternative content is also dynamically provided if necessary.