Web Technology Services : Web Standards and the Valid Icon

The Valid Icon allows users to test individual pages for correctness.  The icon provides three links to users to check for HTML standards, CSS standards, and Section 508 standards.  We recommend adhering to these standards for the best user experience.

W3C Recommendations for HTML

The W3C has recommendations for the proper use of HTML.  The HTML Validator checks a web page for these recommendations.

W3C Recommendations for CSS

The W3C also has recommendations for the proper use of CSS.  The CSS Validator checks a web page for the CSS recommendations.

Section 508 Federal Law

Section 508 requires all UI web sites funded by Federal grants are accessible by all users with disabilities.  Other UI web sites are encouraged to adhere to Section 508 as well.  Following the W3C recommendations covers many of the standards within Section 508.  The Section 508 Validator checks a web page for basic standards within the federal law.  Web Accessibility has more detailed information on Section 508.

When to Use the Valid Icon

We recommend updating the web pages first to follow the standards listed.  Then add the Valid Icon to the pages and link to the validation page.  This allows users to verify at any time that the web pages follow all three standards listed.