Test files and make changes

Test any SWF file that is intended for use with screen readers. Test your SWF files when each new version of Flash Player is released, including minor revisions, and test it with the following:

  • Window Eyes and JAWS for Windows screen readers, which handle SWF files differently, so you could get different results for the user experience.

  • In a browser without a screen reader, and navigate through your site without using the mouse.

  • Turn off your monitor and use only the screen reader to navigate your website.

  • If you use audio narration, test your site without speakers.

  • With several target visitors.

Note: You do not have to test different browsers, because the technology used to expose SWF files to screen readers (MSAA) is supported only by Internet Explorer on Windows.
When listening to your SWF file using a screen reader, check the following points:

  • Is the reading order correct?

  • Do you have descriptions for shortcuts in your SWF file?

  • Do you have adequate and complete descriptions for the elements in the interface?

  • Do you have adequate descriptions for navigating the site’s structure?

  • Is the SWF file content read when it is updated or refreshed?

  • If you change the context of any elements on the Stage (such as a button that changes from Play to Pause), is that change announced by the screen reader?

    No official tool is available for validating SWF files, unlike HTML validation. However, some third-party tools exist to help you validate the file. For more information on these extensions, see www.adobe.com/go/flash_extensions.

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