Documents
When considering if a document should be published online decide if it can be delivered as a webpage instead.
A webpage is more accessible and easier to maintain. It is more compatible with assistive technologies and works well on different devices.
Documents should only be used when:
- The layout is critical (e.g. maps, architectural drawings)
- The content is lengthy
- It’s intended for print or offline use
- It’s a legal or regulatory requirement
We understand that in some cases uploading a document may be appropriate, for example, agendas or architect drawings.
Avoid publishing documents that:
- Duplicate webpage content
- Are promotional (better suited for social media)
- Are inaccessible or fail WCAG 2.2 checks
- Cannot be reduced to under 2MB
- Are already published externally (link to document instead)
- Were created in formats that don’t convert well to PDF
Documents must meet WCAG 2.2 Level AA. This includes:
- Logical structure with tagged headings
- Meaningful document properties (e.g. title)
- Good colour contrast
- Alt text for images
- Meaningful link descriptions
- Avoiding layout tables and decorative images
Part of our commitment to accessibility will require our editors to combine automated checks with manual reviews.
Further reading: Why GOV.UK content should be published in HTML and not PDF – Government Digital Service
