Quick Links: | File Accessibility Requirements | Approved Form Types | Use Box Links Appropriately | Store PDFs in Cascade | Use Google Sheets for Dynamic Content |
File Accessibility Requirements
This document outlines approved file types and their recommended usage for the Chico State web environment. Using consistent file types supports accessibility, ADA compliance, and a better user experience.
All documents must be accessible before publishing to the web.
Submit a Web Support ticket to remediate and upload documents into Cascade.
Approved Form Types
Approved form platforms include:
- Google Forms
- Microsoft Forms
- Qualtrics
- SoftDocs
- Fillable PDFs
When to Use Forms
Forms are best used for:
- Data collection
- Surveys
- Applications
- Intake forms
When to Use Fillable PDFs
- A signature is required
- Users need to download the document
Use Box Links Appropriately
Box links should only be used in approved situations. Documents shared through Box must still comply with accessibility requirements.
Submit a Web Support ticket before linking inaccessible files.
When to Use Box Links
- The document is not heavily used by current or prospective students
- The document does not need to appear in Google search results
Box-hosted files are generally not indexed by Google. If search visibility is important, store the PDF directly in Cascade instead.
Store PDFs in Cascade
PDFs are most appropriate for downloadable materials such as applications, handbooks, and official guides.
When to Use PDFs
- The document must be downloaded
- The document serves as official campus documentation
- The content is frequently used by current or prospective students
If the same information already exists on a webpage, do not create a duplicate PDF version. Duplicate content conflicts with web governance standards and creates maintenance challenges.
Use Google Sheets for Dynamic Content
Google Sheets are generally accessible and require little remediation work.
When creating a Google Sheet, use a clear and descriptive title.
When to Use Google Sheets
- Content changes frequently throughout the semester
- Multiple departments or external organizations need to collaborate
- Examples include tutoring schedules or lab session calendars
Still need help? Contact Web Services for further assistance.
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