{ "test_case_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016", "title": "WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text", "category": "wcag_manual", "procedure_version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "rule_type": "atomic", "wcag_criteria": [ "1.4.5" ], "level": "AA", "risk": "medium", "risk_basis": "Information is encoded as an image of text even though the technology can present it as text. People most likely affected: people with low vision or reduced contrast sensitivity; Blind people and people using screen readers or braille. Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. In the recorded web-desktop-cross-browser environment, apply the criterion to every relevant state and named normative exception; failures in critical tasks and complete processes carry the greatest user impact.", "review_status": "draft", "reviewed_at": "", "review_note": "Template content is subject to a hash-bound internal consistency review. Formal assessment claims require competent execution, current evidence and the applicable legal, participant and organisational authority.", "method_label": "WCAG check", "tester_level": "Accessibility tester", "estimated_duration": "Typically 33–48 minutes for the stated single-target assumptions; use the component breakdown when estimating a real sample.", "execution_class": "manual_with_automation_support", "automation_support": "supporting_evidence_only", "simulation_policy": "simulation_may_support_but_not_replace_manual_execution", "plain_summary": "Information is encoded as an image of text even though the technology can present it as text.", "objective": "Information is encoded as an image of text even though the technology can present it as text.", "test_subject": "The selected conformance scope for WCAG 2.2 Success Criterion 1.4.5.", "test_targets": [ "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation." ], "applicability": "Classify whether the image is visually customisable or whether the particular presentation is essential.", "applicability_questions": [ "Does the selected content contain this target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "Does this applicability rule match it: Classify whether the image is visually customisable or whether the particular presentation is essential.", "Which states, technologies, page variations and complete-process positions can change the decision?" ], "inapplicability_conditions": [ "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation." ], "assumptions": [ "The selected scope identifies the product version, technologies, states and important user journeys being evaluated.", "The tester knows how to use this method and any required assistive technology.", "Known browser or assistive-technology limitations are recorded instead of being assigned to the product without evidence." ], "accessibility_support_assumptions": [ "The result covers only the browsers, platforms, readers and assistive technologies that were actually tested.", "Do not apply a result from one technology combination to an untested combination or to every user." ], "prerequisites": [ "The product area and test targets are agreed before testing starts.", "The operating system, browser, viewport and input method are recorded.", "Test data is safe to use and does not expose unnecessary personal information." ], "required_environment_fields": [ "operating_system", "operating_system_version", "browser", "browser_version", "viewport_css_pixels", "input_method" ], "steps": [ { "step_id": "S1", "title": "Inventory applicable targets", "phase": "prepare", "action": "Freeze the page, content and product version. Inventory Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Apply this rule: Classify whether the image is visually customisable or whether the particular presentation is essential.", "test_target": "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "required_state": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Use real text instead of images of text, use default and every meaningful state or variation that can change the result.", "tool_or_command": "For WCAG 1.4.5, use the frozen scope inventory, product requirements and rendered content to identify every Use real text instead of images of text target.", "expected": "Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing.", "evidence_to_record": "Page/view, target identifier, state, technology, sample rationale and scope limitation.", "decision_effect": "For WCAG 1.4.5, an omitted applicable Use real text instead of images of text target or state remains untested.", "recovery_or_repeat": "Repeat the WCAG 1.4.5 target inventory after a material content, state, technology or process change.", "novice_guidance": "For WCAG 1.4.5, keep agreed scope exclusions separate from the target's applicable, inapplicable and pass outcomes.", "scenario_purpose": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, prepare the named scenario: Inventory applicable targets. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. The preparation must establish this result: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing.", "user_impact": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. This scenario isolates that risk in the action named Inventory applicable targets.", "failure_observation": "During WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, the target, starting state, environment or scope record remains ambiguous for the scenario named Inventory applicable targets. The preparation result cannot be demonstrated: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing.", "decision_rules": { "passed": "Record passed for the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Inventory applicable targets only when the evidence (Page/view, target identifier, state, technology, sample rationale and scope limitation.) supports: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing.", "failed": "Record failed when the action is completed and this failure observation is reproduced: During WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, the target, starting state, environment or scope record remains ambiguous for the scenario named Inventory applicable targets. The preparation result cannot be demonstrated: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing.", "not_applicable": "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "blocked": "Record blocked, not passed, when The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed." }, "limitations_and_claim_boundary": "This WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario covers only the action named Inventory applicable targets for the recorded target and state. It contributes evidence to 1.4.5; apply the procedure's aggregation, complete-process and conformance-scope rules before making a broader decision." }, { "step_id": "S2", "title": "Use real text instead of images of text", "phase": "test", "action": "Identify text rendered as images and determine whether the presentation is essential or user-customizable; compare the content with an equivalent text implementation.", "test_target": "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "required_state": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Use real text instead of images of text, use default and every meaningful state or variation that can change the result.", "tool_or_command": "DOM and image inspection, content comparison and customisation controls where claimed.", "expected": "Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "evidence_to_record": "Image, text content, available technology, customisation evidence or essential-presentation rationale.", "decision_effect": "A Use real text instead of images of text target that does not meet WCAG 1.4.5 and has no supported exception is failed.", "recovery_or_repeat": "Repeat the WCAG 1.4.5 action when the target's content, state, environment or underlying technology changes.", "novice_guidance": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Use real text instead of images of text, record the actual evidence before deciding; use checker or visual evidence alone only when this procedure defines it as the measurement.", "scenario_purpose": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, execute the named scenario: Use real text instead of images of text. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Compare the observation with this result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "user_impact": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. This scenario isolates that risk in the action named Use real text instead of images of text.", "failure_observation": "After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Use real text instead of images of text, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "decision_rules": { "passed": "Record passed for the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Use real text instead of images of text only when the evidence (Image, text content, available technology, customisation evidence or essential-presentation rationale.) supports: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "failed": "Record failed when the action is completed and this failure observation is reproduced: After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Use real text instead of images of text, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "not_applicable": "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "blocked": "Record blocked, not passed, when The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed." }, "limitations_and_claim_boundary": "This WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario covers only the action named Use real text instead of images of text for the recorded target and state. It contributes evidence to 1.4.5; apply the procedure's aggregation, complete-process and conformance-scope rules before making a broader decision." }, { "step_id": "S3", "title": "Repeat material variations and recovery", "phase": "test", "test_target": "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "required_state": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text: Default and every meaningful state or variation that can change the result.", "tool_or_command": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, use the same recorded method, then change only the state, environment or recovery condition being compared.", "action": "Repeat the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text action for each inventoried variation that can change the outcome. Include relevant default, revealed, error, interruption, recovery and confirmation states and complete the selected process from start to finish where this test can affect task completion.", "expected": "Every material variation and required recovery path has its own reproducible observation; no unexecuted state is merged into a passing result.", "failure_observation": "After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Repeat material variations and recovery, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Every material variation and required recovery path has its own reproducible observation; no unexecuted state is merged into a passing result.", "evidence_to_record": "Variation identifier; changed state or environment; start and end points; actual observation; recovery result; intervention; evidence reference and target outcome.", "decision_effect": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, a reproduced mismatch fails the affected target; an omitted required variation remains untested; conflicting evidence remains cannot tell.", "recovery_or_repeat": "Repeat this action for every required variation of Use real text instead of images of text and after a material target, content, state, environment or configuration change. Preserve the original observation.", "novice_guidance": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, change one material condition at a time where practical. Do not assume that a passing default state covers errors, overlays, orientation changes, interruptions or recovery.", "limitations_and_claim_boundary": "This WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario covers only the action named Repeat material variations and recovery for the recorded target and state. It contributes evidence to 1.4.5; apply the procedure's aggregation, complete-process and conformance-scope rules before making a broader decision.", "scenario_purpose": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, execute the named scenario: Repeat material variations and recovery. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Compare the observation with this result: Every material variation and required recovery path has its own reproducible observation; no unexecuted state is merged into a passing result.", "user_impact": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. This scenario isolates that risk in the action named Repeat material variations and recovery.", "decision_rules": { "passed": "Record passed for the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Repeat material variations and recovery only when the evidence (Variation identifier; changed state or environment; start and end points; actual observation; recovery result; intervention; evidence reference and target outcome.) supports: Every material variation and required recovery path has its own reproducible observation; no unexecuted state is merged into a passing result.", "failed": "Record failed when the action is completed and this failure observation is reproduced: After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Repeat material variations and recovery, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Every material variation and required recovery path has its own reproducible observation; no unexecuted state is merged into a passing result.", "not_applicable": "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "blocked": "Record blocked, not passed, when The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed." } }, { "step_id": "S4", "title": "Apply branches and exceptions", "phase": "decide", "action": "For WCAG 1.4.5, compare the actual result directly with the normative condition; do not add advisory practice to the pass threshold. Evaluate only these recorded normative exceptions where relevant: Customisable; Essential presentation.", "test_target": "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "required_state": "For WCAG 1.4.5, use the same Use real text instead of images of text target and state evidence collected in S2.", "tool_or_command": "WCAG 2.2 normative text and Understanding Success Criterion 1.4.5: Images of Text as informative interpretation.", "expected": "Every alternative branch or exception used is named and supported by its exact condition.", "evidence_to_record": "Selected branch; exception name, condition and evidence; unresolved judgement and resolver.", "decision_effect": "For WCAG 1.4.5, an unsupported Use real text instead of images of text exception fails; unresolved applicability or exception evidence is cannot tell.", "recovery_or_repeat": "Reassess WCAG 1.4.5 when source status, normative wording or the Use real text instead of images of text target facts change.", "novice_guidance": "For WCAG 1.4.5, use Understanding and Techniques as informative decision support; they do not create extra requirements.", "scenario_purpose": "For WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text, execute the named scenario: Apply branches and exceptions. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Compare the observation with this result: Every alternative branch or exception used is named and supported by its exact condition.", "user_impact": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. This scenario isolates that risk in the action named Apply branches and exceptions.", "failure_observation": "After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Apply branches and exceptions, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Every alternative branch or exception used is named and supported by its exact condition.", "decision_rules": { "passed": "Record passed for the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Apply branches and exceptions only when the evidence (Selected branch; exception name, condition and evidence; unresolved judgement and resolver.) supports: Every alternative branch or exception used is named and supported by its exact condition.", "failed": "Record failed when the action is completed and this failure observation is reproduced: After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Apply branches and exceptions, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Every alternative branch or exception used is named and supported by its exact condition.", "not_applicable": "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "blocked": "Record blocked, not passed, when The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed." }, "limitations_and_claim_boundary": "This WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario covers only the action named Apply branches and exceptions for the recorded target and state. It contributes evidence to 1.4.5; apply the procedure's aggregation, complete-process and conformance-scope rules before making a broader decision." } ], "expectations": [ { "expectation_id": "E1", "statement": "Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "outcome_if_unmet": "failed" } ], "exceptions": [ "Use only an exception stated in the relevant standard, or an agreed out-of-scope decision. Record the reason and evidence.", "A tool limitation, lack of time or unavailable assistive technology is a limitation or incomplete result, not a pass." ], "outcome_definitions": { "passed": "The applicable test target meets every expectation in this rule or procedure.", "failed": "The applicable test target does not meet at least one expectation in this rule or procedure.", "inapplicable": "The test subject contains no target that matches this rule or procedure's applicability.", "cantTell": "The tester cannot fully determine applicability or whether every expectation is met.", "untested": "The test subject or target was not evaluated using this rule or procedure." }, "examples": [ { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-PASSED", "outcome": "passed", "scenario": "Representative calibration example, not client evidence. Procedure: WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Action: Freeze the page, content and product version. Inventory Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. Apply this rule: Classify whether the image is visually customisable or whether the particular presentation is essential. Evidence: Page/view, target identifier, state, technology, sample rationale and scope limitation. Observed result: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing." }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-FAILED", "outcome": "failed", "scenario": "Representative calibration example, not client evidence. Procedure: WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text. Target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. The tester completes the recorded action, but the captured evidence does not demonstrate: Every selected target and state is uniquely identifiable before testing. The failed target and state remain separate from unexecuted targets." }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-INAPPLICABLE", "outcome": "inapplicable", "scenario": "Representative scope example, not client evidence. The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation. The completed inventory is retained as the basis for the inapplicable outcome." }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-CANTTELL", "outcome": "cantTell", "scenario": "Representative unresolved example, not client evidence. The source asset or presentation requirement is unavailable, preventing a defensible essential/customisable decision. The record identifies the conflicting evidence and the expertise or comparison needed to resolve it." }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-UNTESTED", "outcome": "untested", "scenario": "Representative execution-gap example, not client evidence. The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed. The missing action, state or environment remains open and is not converted to a pass." } ], "sampling_rule": "Test every in-scope instance when practical. For a large population, document a sample that includes each template, content or control type, meaningful state and high-risk task.", "complete_process_requirement": "If this check is part of a user journey, test the selected journey from start to finish, including relevant errors and recovery. Record any path that was not tested.", "pass_criteria": "Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "fail_criteria": "At least one applicable target violates this condition and no documented normative exception applies: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "evidence_requirements": [ "Page/view, target identifier, product/content version, state, technology and sample rationale.", "Image, text content, available technology, customisation evidence or essential-presentation rationale.", "Target outcome, normative branch, exception evidence, actual result, limitation and issue reference." ], "official_source_ids": [ "W3C-WCAG22", "W3C-WCAG22-QUICKREF", "W3C-WCAG22-TECHNIQUES", "W3C-UNDERSTANDING-1-4-5" ], "act_rule_mapping": { "format_alignment": "This is a project-authored manual procedure, not a W3C Approved ACT Rule.", "approved_rule_ids": [], "approved_rules": [], "mapping_status": "No supporting ACT rule selected", "registry_reviewed_at": "2026-08-27", "registry_source_id": "W3C-ACT-RULES", "mapping_rationale": "An ACT result can support only the part of this procedure covered by that rule. It does not replace the remaining manual or assistive-technology checks." }, "technique_traceability": [ { "wcag_criterion": "1.4.5", "understanding_url": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/Understanding/images-of-text.html", "techniques_registry_source_id": "W3C-WCAG22-TECHNIQUES", "technique_ids_applied": [], "failure_ids_applied": [], "selection_status": "Select relevant techniques during the test", "selection_note": "Techniques are examples, not extra requirements. Record any technique or common failure used, but decide the result against the success criterion." } ], "platform_ids": [ "web-desktop-cross-browser" ], "review_requirement": "A qualified accessibility reviewer must confirm the scope, evidence and result before it is reported as final.", "known_issues": [ "Check relevant browser, tool or assistive-technology release notes before assigning unexpected behaviour to the product.", "If responsibility is unclear, record the reproducible behaviour and use cannot tell until it is resolved." ], "change_log": [ { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Reworked for plain language, case-focused steps, scoped evidence and transparent draft review status." }, { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Removed administrative filler steps, added contextual risk and result boundaries, and prepared the concise worksheet flow for internal consistency review." } ], "tags": [ "sc-1.4.5", "wcag-2.2", "wcag-aa", "wcag_manual" ], "status": "draft", "authoring_readiness": "content_complete", "short_title": "Use real text instead of images of text", "catalogue_version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "identity": { "stable_case_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016", "procedure_title": "WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text", "short_user_centred_title": "Use real text instead of images of text", "procedure_version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "catalogue_version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "status": "draft", "category": "wcag_manual", "procedure_type": "atomic", "execution_class": "manual_with_automation_support", "intended_tester_expertise": "Accessibility tester", "effort_model": { "model": "component_effort_v2", "small_scope_minutes": { "minimum": 33, "maximum": 48 }, "warning": "Add a new per-target execution and evidence allowance for each additional target class or state that could produce a different result. Add setup time for each distinct environment.", "calculation_guidance": "Add the recorded setup, per-target execution, evidence and technical-review components; then apply the stated variation rule.", "unit": "minutes", "setup": { "typical": 10, "includes": "Confirm scope and target, prepare safe data, establish the required state and record the tool or environment version." }, "per_target_execution": { "typical": 8, "includes": "Perform the procedure once for one target in its selected states; this excludes remediation and retesting." }, "evidence_capture": { "typical": 7, "includes": "Capture, name and cross-reference the minimum reproducible evidence while removing unnecessary personal or secret data." }, "technical_review": { "typical": 8, "includes": "Check applicability, observations, outcome logic, evidence sufficiency and report wording before issue publication." }, "typical_total_range": { "minimum": 33, "maximum": 48 }, "assumptions": "one page or component state; add another execution block for each materially different template or state", "variation": "Add a new per-target execution and evidence allowance for each additional target class or state that could produce a different result. Add setup time for each distinct environment.", "excludes": "Client coordination, inaccessible-environment recovery, recruitment, legal review, remediation implementation and waiting time unless the procedure states otherwise." }, "related_procedures": [], "replaces": [], "replaced_by": [] }, "purpose_and_user_impact": { "barrier_detected": "Information is encoded as an image of text even though the technology can present it as text.", "people_likely_affected": [ "People with low vision or reduced contrast sensitivity.", "Blind people and people using screen readers or braille." ], "functionality_or_information_at_risk": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read.", "result_scope": "atomic_conformance_check", "claim_boundary": "This WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text procedure determines whether the recorded targets meet WCAG 1.4.5 on web-desktop-cross-browser in the tested states. A broader conformance decision must also account for every applicable target in the declared scope, complete processes, accessibility-supported use and the other WCAG conformance requirements.", "why_it_matters": "Users cannot reliably resize, restyle, search, translate or have text read. The procedure is necessary because information is encoded as an image of text even though the technology can present it as text and the result can otherwise conceal a material barrier for the affected people named here." }, "requirement_mappings": [ { "source_id": "W3C-WCAG22", "requirement_id": "1.4.5", "requirement_level": "AA", "requirement_type": "conformance", "coverage_type": "full", "canonical_source": "https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG22/", "source_status": "W3C Recommendation", "source_version_or_publication_date": "WCAG 2.2; 12 December 2024 Recommendation", "date_verified": "2026-08-27", "reviewer_notes": "Primary conformance mapping for WCAG 2.2 Success Criterion 1.4.5; decide against the normative success-criterion text.", "limitations": "Full mapping describes the intended criterion scope of this manual procedure, not proof that a sample covers every item in a product or that WCAG conformance requirements are satisfied.", "dependent_fields": [ "applicability_model", "normative_exceptions", "steps", "decision_logic" ], "mapping_role": "primary_conformance_mapping" }, { "source_id": "W3C-WCAG22-QUICKREF", "requirement_id": "W3C-WCAG22-QUICKREF", "requirement_level": "informative", "requirement_type": "advisory", "coverage_type": "supporting", "canonical_source": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/quickref/", "source_status": "living_guidance", "source_version_or_publication_date": "WCAG 2.2 supporting guidance", "date_verified": "2026-08-27", "reviewer_notes": "Supporting source. Procedure-level content review remains recorded separately.", "limitations": "This source does not override WCAG or create an additional WCAG conformance requirement.", "dependent_fields": [ "prerequisites", "environment", "steps" ] }, { "source_id": "W3C-WCAG22-TECHNIQUES", "requirement_id": "W3C-WCAG22-TECHNIQUES", "requirement_level": "informative", "requirement_type": "advisory", "coverage_type": "supporting", "canonical_source": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/Techniques/", "source_status": "living_guidance", "source_version_or_publication_date": "Techniques for WCAG 2.2", "date_verified": "2026-08-27", "reviewer_notes": "Supporting source. Procedure-level content review remains recorded separately.", "limitations": "This source does not override WCAG or create an additional WCAG conformance requirement.", "dependent_fields": [ "prerequisites", "environment", "steps" ] }, { "source_id": "W3C-UNDERSTANDING-1-4-5", "requirement_id": "Understanding 1.4.5", "requirement_level": "informative", "requirement_type": "advisory", "coverage_type": "supporting", "canonical_source": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/Understanding/images-of-text.html", "source_status": "living_guidance", "source_version_or_publication_date": "Understanding WCAG 2.2 Success Criterion 1.4.5; checked 4 August 2026", "date_verified": "2026-08-27", "reviewer_notes": "Criterion-specific informative interpretation used for applicability, exceptions and decision guidance.", "limitations": "Understanding guidance is informative and does not add a WCAG conformance requirement.", "dependent_fields": [ "purpose_and_user_impact", "applicability_model", "normative_exceptions", "steps", "decision_logic", "calibration_examples" ] } ], "applicability_model": { "test_subject": "The selected conformance scope for WCAG 2.2 Success Criterion 1.4.5.", "test_targets": [ "Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation." ], "objective_questions": [ "Does the selected content contain this target: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "Does this applicability rule match it: Classify whether the image is visually customisable or whether the particular presentation is essential.", "Which states, technologies, page variations and complete-process positions can change the decision?" ], "subjective_judgements": [ "The source asset or presentation requirement is unavailable, preventing a defensible essential/customisable decision." ], "inapplicability_conditions": [ "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation." ], "scope_exclusions": [ "An agreed scope exclusion is a reporting limitation, not an inapplicable target outcome or WCAG pass." ], "required_states_and_variations": [ "Default and every meaningful state or variation that can change the result." ], "complete_process_dependencies": "Where the criterion applies within a complete process, include every selected process step plus error, interruption, recovery and confirmation states. Record any omitted path as untested.", "conforming_alternate_version_considerations": "Rely on a conforming alternate version only after the WCAG definition and all conformance conditions are verified for both versions and the mechanism used to reach the alternate." }, "normative_exceptions": [ { "name": "Customisable", "decision_condition": "The image of text can be visually customised to the user's requirements.", "evidence_needed": "Working controls and resulting visual customisation.", "common_misinterpretation": "Page zoom alone is not proof of the stated customisability branch.", "official_source": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/Understanding/images-of-text.html", "scope_of_exception": "Only that image of text." }, { "name": "Essential presentation", "decision_condition": "The particular presentation of text is essential to the information conveyed; logotypes are included.", "evidence_needed": "Meaning/purpose evidence and why text rendering would invalidate it.", "common_misinterpretation": "Brand style outside a logotype is not automatically essential.", "official_source": "https://www.w3.org/WAI/WCAG22/Understanding/images-of-text.html", "scope_of_exception": "Only the essential image presentation." } ], "normative_exceptions_absent_reason": "", "environment": { "required_tester_expertise": "Accessibility tester", "required_platforms": [ "web-desktop-cross-browser" ], "minimum_environment_fields": [ "operating_system", "operating_system_version", "browser", "browser_version", "viewport_css_pixels", "input_method" ], "product_and_content_version_required": true, "viewport_and_orientation_required": true, "input_mode_required": true, "relevant_settings": [], "known_platform_limitations": [ "Check relevant browser, tool or assistive-technology release notes before assigning unexpected behaviour to the product.", "If responsibility is unclear, record the reproducible behaviour and use cannot tell until it is resolved." ], "clean_state_requirements": [ "Start from a documented clean or known state and record pre-existing preferences, extensions and cached data that can change the result." ], "test_data_and_privacy_constraints": [ "Use authorised synthetic or controlled data.", "Do not record credentials, secrets or unnecessary personal data." ], "coverage_boundary": [ "The result covers only the browsers, platforms, readers and assistive technologies that were actually tested.", "Do not apply a result from one technology combination to an untested combination or to every user." ] }, "decision_logic": { "target_passed": "Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "target_failed": "At least one applicable target violates this condition and no documented normative exception applies: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "target_inapplicable": "The completed scope inventory contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "target_cant_tell": "The source asset or presentation requirement is unavailable, preventing a defensible essential/customisable decision.", "target_untested": "The target is applicable, but a required action, state, environment or evidence item was not completed.", "aggregation": "Preserve one result per target and material state. A failed target prevents a passed aggregate; cantTell and untested remain unresolved; inapplicable is used only when no target matches applicability.", "wcag_requirement_decision": "A WCAG 1.4.5 decision is separate from target and ACT outcomes. It requires all applicable content in the declared conformance scope plus WCAG's full-page, complete-process, accessibility-supported-ways and non-interference requirements as applicable.", "conforming_alternate_version_effect": "Rely on a conforming alternate version only after the WCAG definition and all conformance conditions are verified for both versions and the mechanism used to reach the alternate.", "passed_automation_follow_up": "A passed automated or ACT check covers only its exact applicability and expectation. Complete all remaining manual, contextual, exception, state and technology checks; never set the criterion to satisfied automatically.", "platform_responsibility": "Record reproducible behaviour and environment evidence. Use cantTell when product, browser, operating-system, assistive-technology or configuration responsibility cannot be assigned defensibly.", "claim_readiness": "Schema validation and a passed result do not change claim readiness. Required evidence, independent review, scope limitations and governance authorisation are separate gates." }, "evidence_specification": [ { "evidence_id": "EV1", "method": "scope_inventory", "record": "Page/view, target identifier, product/content version, state, technology and sample rationale.", "review_purpose": "Identify what was and was not tested.", "privacy_and_security": "Use authorised identifiers and redact credentials, secrets and unnecessary personal data.", "required_for_formal_result": true }, { "evidence_id": "EV2", "method": "criterion_specific_evidence", "record": "Image, text content, available technology, customisation evidence or essential-presentation rationale.", "review_purpose": "Reproduce the criterion-specific observation or measurement.", "privacy_and_security": "Reference redacted evidence; do not embed sensitive files or unnecessary personal data.", "required_for_formal_result": true }, { "evidence_id": "EV3", "method": "decision_record", "record": "Target outcome, normative branch, exception evidence, actual result, limitation and issue reference.", "review_purpose": "Review the decision without conflating target outcome, WCAG decision or claim readiness.", "privacy_and_security": "Use evidence references and apply the engagement retention policy.", "required_for_formal_result": true } ], "calibration_examples": [ { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-PASSED", "outcome": "passed", "scenario": "A logo retains text as an image under the essential logotype note.", "explanation": "The applicable target meets the criterion-specific condition in the stated state.", "fixture_id": "", "fixture_version": "", "machine_testable": false }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-FAILED", "outcome": "failed", "scenario": "A promotional heading is a fixed image even though equivalent styled text is supported.", "explanation": "The applicable target violates the condition and no supported exception applies.", "fixture_id": "", "fixture_version": "", "machine_testable": false }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-INAPPLICABLE", "outcome": "inapplicable", "scenario": "The frozen scope contains no target matching: Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "explanation": "No target matches applicability; this target outcome is not automatically copied to a WCAG decision.", "fixture_id": "", "fixture_version": "", "machine_testable": false }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-CANTTELL", "outcome": "cantTell", "scenario": "The source asset or presentation requirement is unavailable, preventing a defensible essential/customisable decision.", "explanation": "The uncertainty is material and remains unresolved rather than being converted to passed.", "fixture_id": "", "fixture_version": "", "machine_testable": false }, { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-EX-UNTESTED", "outcome": "untested", "scenario": "An applicable use real text instead of images of text target was inventoried, but a required state or action was not executed.", "explanation": "Applicable coverage remains incomplete.", "fixture_id": "", "fixture_version": "", "machine_testable": false } ], "review_record": { "author": "", "method_reviewer": "", "independent_standards_reviewer": "", "accessibility_ui_reviewer": "", "author_date": "", "method_review_date": "", "standards_review_date": "", "ui_review_date": "", "source_versions_reviewed": [], "exceptions_reviewed": false, "known_limitations": [ "Procedure content was checked against current WCAG 2.2 normative text and criterion-specific informative guidance on 4 August 2026; real execution and any formal claim authority remain separate." ], "open_issues": [ "Competent method and standards review must confirm applicability, exceptions, decision logic, evidence and calibration material; unresolved material findings block use for an external assessment." ], "decision": "pending", "next_review_date": "", "status_transition_reason": "", "release_gate_id": "", "release_gate_completed_at": "", "approval_authority": "", "approval_date": "" }, "privacy_and_security": { "browser_storage": "Worksheet data is stored only in this browser's local storage until the user exports or clears it.", "network_transmission": "The static library does not upload worksheet data.", "data_minimisation": "Record only evidence necessary to reproduce and review the decision.", "redaction": "Remove credentials, secrets and unnecessary personal or participant data before export or sharing.", "retention_and_deletion": "Apply the engagement retention schedule and clear local browser data when it is no longer required." }, "version_history": [ { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Reworked for plain language, case-focused steps, scoped evidence and transparent draft review status." }, { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Migrated to professional catalogue schema v3 with separated outcomes, structured authority, applicability, evidence, decision and review records." }, { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Individually prepared WCAG 1.4.5 procedure content mapped to current normative and informative sources and checked for internal consistency; competent review, real execution and formal claim authority remain separate." }, { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Added explicit preparation and variation/recovery steps plus a bounded representative worked example for paid-template use." }, { "version": "2026.08.27-rc.9", "change": "Procedure guidance and presentation simplified without changing draft governance status." } ], "migration": { "from_schema": "accessibility-test-catalog.v2", "from_procedure_version": "2026.08.04.1", "migrated_at": "2026-08-27", "content_review_state": "commercial_completeness_upgrade_agent_verified", "stable_identifier_preserved": true, "legacy_url_preserved": true, "delivery_model": "professional_delivery_v2", "agent_content_validation": { "status": "complete", "method": "case_specific_semantic_and_operational_checks_v1", "checked_fields": [ "target", "state", "tool", "action", "expected_observation", "failure_observation", "evidence", "outcome_rules", "claim_boundary", "compact_examples" ], "human_approval_effect": "none" } }, "test_type": "conformance", "library_layer": "atomic", "decision_branches": [], "supporting_guidance": [], "effort_guidance": { "unit": "minutes", "setup": { "typical": 10, "includes": "Confirm scope and target, prepare safe data, establish the required state and record the tool or environment version." }, "per_target_execution": { "typical": 8, "includes": "Perform the procedure once for one target in its selected states; this excludes remediation and retesting." }, "evidence_capture": { "typical": 7, "includes": "Capture, name and cross-reference the minimum reproducible evidence while removing unnecessary personal or secret data." }, "technical_review": { "typical": 8, "includes": "Check applicability, observations, outcome logic, evidence sufficiency and report wording before issue publication." }, "typical_total_range": { "minimum": 33, "maximum": 48 }, "assumptions": "one page or component state; add another execution block for each materially different template or state", "variation": "Add a new per-target execution and evidence allowance for each additional target class or state that could produce a different result. Add setup time for each distinct environment.", "excludes": "Client coordination, inaccessible-environment recovery, recruitment, legal review, remediation implementation and waiting time unless the procedure states otherwise." }, "worked_examples": [ { "example_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-WORKED-001", "example_kind": "representative_synthetic_example", "context": "Representative synthetic example for WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text on a fictional, version-frozen product target; no client or participant execution occurred.", "inspected": "The tester follows S2 (Use real text instead of images of text) using the target, required state, tool and repeat rule stated in this procedure.", "observed_output": "After the tester completes the WCAG 1.4.5 Images of Text scenario named Use real text instead of images of text, the recorded observation for the target is inconsistent with the required result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential.", "evidence_captured": [ "example-evidence-001: target and state record for Each image of text used to convey information when the technology can achieve the presentation.", "example-evidence-002: contemporaneous observation from the named method — Image, text content, available technology, customisation evidence or essential-presentation rationale.", "example-evidence-003: comparison note linking the actual observation to the expected result and claim boundary" ], "tester_reasoning": "The recorded observation does not demonstrate the expected result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential. The failed decision is limited to this synthetic target and state; unexecuted coverage is not inferred.", "decision": "failed", "completed_finding": { "finding_id": "A11Y-WCAG-016-example-finding-001", "title": "Use real text instead of images of text: expected result is not demonstrated", "severity": "medium", "user_impact": "The represented barrier may affect People with low vision or reduced contrast sensitivity.; Blind people and people using screen readers or braille.", "evidence_refs": [ "example-evidence-001", "example-evidence-002", "example-evidence-003" ] }, "remediation_advice": "Change the represented target or process so it demonstrates this result: Text is used rather than an image of text, unless the image is visually customisable to user requirements or its presentation is essential. Then rerun the affected step and every dependent variation.", "reviewer_feedback": "The reviewer confirms applicability, environment, actual-versus-expected comparison, evidence references and bounded wording; unsupported product-wide or conformance language is removed.", "final_client_report_wording": "Synthetic training finding: the sampled Use real text instead of images of text target does not meet the procedure expectation in the recorded state. User impact and broader scope require evidence from the buyer's real execution.", "retest_outcome": "Synthetic retest example: after the represented change, repeat the failed step plus material error and recovery states. Close the finding only when new evidence demonstrates the expected result; otherwise retain the non-pass outcome.", "claim_boundary": "This is a representative, synthetic worked example for training and calibration. It is not evidence from a client product, participant or real assistive-technology execution." } ] }