Digital accessibility ensures that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, can access and use the tools and information needed to work, learn, and connect within the Rice community. From websites and videos to documents and online applications, the digital content we create every day plays a vital role in keeping Rice inclusive and welcoming to all.
As the university works toward its May 11, 2027, digital accessibility compliance target, every member of the Rice community can contribute by integrating accessibility into their daily work and activities.
Progress to Date
Earlier this year, Public Affairs deployed Siteimprove, an AI-powered tool that evaluates web pages across accessibility, search (SEO/AEO), content strategy, and analytics.
Thanks to the collective efforts of marketing and communications professionals across campus, Rice’s accessibility score for Drupal-based websites has jumped 64% since April 2026, currently standing at an 89 out of 100.
Lead with CARE
Digital accessibility extends beyond websites. It applies to all digital resources created or shared at Rice, including documents, presentations, videos, and online applications.
In alignment with Policy 851, the Digital Accessibility Committee is introducing the CARE framework to help the campus community identify and remove accessibility barriers in digital content. The framework outlines four steps:
- Check: After cataloging your digital content, identify accessibility issues and potential improvements.
- Act: Remove barriers in new and existing content by applying accessibility best practices.
- Review: Evaluate new and updated content for accessibility before publishing.
- Embed: Make accessibility a regular part of how the Rice community creates and shares digital information.
As a general practice, individuals should review digital content for accessibility before publishing or sharing it.
Training and Resources
Not sure where to begin? We recommend starting with high-traffic or frequently shared content under your management and making incremental improvements. Check out Digital Accessibility Best Practices for guidance and actionable advice.
Other resources include:
- Accessibility Guides: Resources for Canvas, communications, documents and forms, and more.
- Tools: Resources for assistive technologies, testing and remediation, and accessible meetings and events. Responsible AI for Accessibility tools are coming soon.
- Trainings: Self-paced online modules are available now, with interactive live training sessions and campus events launching soon.
- Grants: Digital Accessibility Grants are available for Rice community members seeking funding to address specific areas for improvement.
To learn more about Rice’s digital accessibility efforts, visit digitalaccessibility.rice.edu. Questions or concerns can be directed to digitalaccessibility@rice.edu.