Tools

The CSU Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) has procured and implemented Enterprise level tools that assist in the automated and manual evaluation of websites and web apps. In addition, the ATI office has negotiated with professional service vendors to provide tools and related services to support digital accessibility efforts at each of the 23 campuses.

Ally Logo

 

What is Ally?

Ally is a tool that benefits all students by improving the accessibility and usability of course materials. Ally seamlessly integrates into Canvas and automatically checks the accessibility of course content, provides feedback and step-by-step instructions for how to remediate specific accessibility barriers, and gives students access to alternative course content formats.

CSU Resources

The CSU supports Ally's campus implementations by coordinating and subsidizing a systemwide Ally license for all interested campuses. Ally integrates into the learning management system, reviews each course's files, provides several additional formatted accessible options for each file, and recommends improving the accessibility of all the digital course content.

For more information, please visit the CSU Ally Deployment & Resources website (CSYou login required) 

Campus Ally Websites

What is Equidox

Equidox is a powerful PDF remediation software designed to make digital documents accessible to individuals with disabilities. It provides an intuitive, user-friendly platform that simplifies the process of applying accessibility features such as proper tagging, alternative text, and logical reading order. Equidox helps organizations comply with key accessibility standards, including PDF/UA (ISO 14289), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) , and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

By automating the remediation process and offering cloud-based access, Equidox empowers users to efficiently create accessible PDFs, ensuring compliance, enhancing user experience, and promoting inclusivity across digital content.

Benefits of Equidox

  • Compliance and Legal Protection: By utilizing Equidox, CSU is proactively working towards meeting accessibility standards, such as WCAG and Section 508, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of legal challenges related to inaccessible documents.
  • Improved User Experience: Accessible PDFs created with Equidox enhance the overall user experience for individuals with disabilities. By providing a seamless and independent means of accessing information, CSU fosters a positive and inclusive digital environment.
  • Time and Resource Efficiency: Equidox significantly reduces the time and resources required for manual document remediation. Its automated features streamline the process, allowing departments to allocate resources efficiently and prioritize accessibility without compromising productivity.

Key Features of Equidox

  • Automated Remediation: Equidox employs advanced algorithms to automatically detect and rectify accessibility issues within PDF documents. This includes ensuring proper heading structures, alternative text for images, and logical reading order. The automated remediation feature not only saves time but also ensures consistent and accurate results.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Equidox offers an intuitive interface that simplifies the process of making PDFs accessible, allowing users with varying levels of technical expertise to efficiently remediate documents.
  • Mass Processing: The software allows users to remediate multiple PDF files simultaneously, improving efficiency and scalability for larger projects.
  • Cloud-Based Access: Equidox is accessible via the cloud (browser), enabling users to work from anywhere with an internet connection while ensuring document security and compliance.

Equidox Resources

For additional assistance on Equidox checkout the resources below.

Note: some of the videos may visually look different than your system, due to a recent update of the user interface.