Case Study
Alt-Scan Accessibility Tool
Automates alt-text audits so instructional designers can resolve accessibility gaps faster.
Summary
Created a Python tool that extracts images missing alt text from PDFs, Word docs, and PPTs, producing a receipt that SMEs can complete and return for quick remediation.
ID & TechnologyProblem-SolvingCollaboration
PythonAccessibilityWCAG 2.1File processing
Project framing
Ask, constraints, and approach
The Ask
Instructional designers needed a faster way to gather accurate alt text from subject matter experts without lengthy back-and-forth.
Constraints
Mixed file types (PDF, DOCX, PPTX)
Quick turnaround for course updates
Needed an intuitive workflow for SMEs
Approach
- 1Discovery with instructional design teams
- 2Alignment on accessibility criteria and handoff flow
- 3Design of extraction logic and receipt format
- 4Build + QA with team collaboration
- 5Iterate based on feedback
Artifacts
Impact
Eliminated
Manual image checks
PDF/DOCX/PPTX
File types supported
Hours → minutes
Workflow speed
Reflection
Presented at the first FIU Online ID Expo; the fast, intuitive workflow made it easy for SMEs to contribute accurate alt text.