Text Messaging and SMS Communication Standards

Text messaging and SMS communications are increasingly used for recruitment, enrollment reminders, event updates, emergency notifications, and student support communications. Because text messages are brief and often time-sensitive, clarity and accessibility are essential. 

Accessible texting practices ensure that all students and recipients can understand and respond to communications without confusion or barriers. 

Primary reference: WCAG 2.2 Quick Reference | w3.org

Training Materials

SMS Based Communication - Centre for Excellence in Universal Design | universaldesign.ie

Why Accessible Text Messaging Matters

Accessible texting: 

  • Supports students using screen readers on mobile devices 
  • Improves clarity and response rates 
  • Reduces confusion and follow-up questions 
  • Ensures information is understandable in brief formats 
  • Reflects institutional professionalism 

Clear and concise messages benefit all recipients. 

EICC Standard for Text Messaging

Text messages sent on behalf of EICC must: 

  • Use clear and concise language 
  • Avoid abbreviations that reduce clarity 
  • Use descriptive links 
  • Avoid image-only content 
  • Ensure linked content is accessible 
  • Not rely on color or visual formatting 

Text communications must prioritize clarity and action. 

Because text messages are brief: 

  • Use plain language 
  • Avoid jargon 
  • Avoid excessive abbreviations 
  • Provide clear next steps 

Example: 

  • Instead of: “FYI reg closes 2day @ 5” 
  • Use: “Registration closes today at 5 p.m. Register here: [link]” 

Clear communication improves accessibility and response. 

Links within text messages must: 

  • Clearly indicate their purpose 
  • Direct recipients to accessible web pages 
  • Avoid generic shortened links when possible 

WCAG alignment: Link Purpose (2.4.4) | w3.org

Example: 

  • Instead of:  “Click here: bit.ly/xyz” 
  • Use: “Register for orientation: eicc.edu/orientation” 

When link shortening is necessary, the message must clearly describe the destination. 

Text messages often direct recipients to: 

  • Registration pages 
  • Forms 
  • Event pages 
  • Canvas content 
  • Program information 

All linked content must meet accessibility standards. 

If the landing page is not accessible, the text message creates an accessibility barrier. 

Text messaging platforms that allow images (MMS) must not rely solely on image-based content. 

Avoid: 

  • Sending flyer images without text 
  • Sending graphics without description 
  • Sending event details only in image format 

If an image is included: 

  • Include all essential information in text 
  • Ensure linked pages are accessible 

WCAG alignment: Non-text Content (1.1.1) | w3.org

Many students use screen readers on mobile devices. 

Best practices: 

  • Avoid excessive punctuation 
  • Avoid all caps 
  • Avoid unnecessary symbols 
  • Keep messages concise 
  • Ensure clear sentence structure 

Messages must be understandable when read aloud by assistive technology. 

When sending time-sensitive messages: 

  • Clearly state date and time 
  • Avoid ambiguous terms (“soon,” “later”) 
  • Provide clear action steps 
  • Include contact information when appropriate 

Clear instructions improve usability for all recipients. 

Emergency notifications must: 

  • Be concise and clear 
  • Avoid abbreviations 
  • Provide direct instructions 
  • Include links only if necessary 
  • Ensure linked information is accessible 

Clarity is essential in urgent communications. 

Text messaging platforms used for official college communication must: 

  • Support accessible linked content 
  • Retain message records as required 
  • Follow institutional communication policies 
  • Align with privacy and data standards 

Accessibility must be considered when adopting messaging platforms. 

Common Issues to Avoid 

  • Image-only messages 
  • Vague links 
  • Excessive abbreviations 
  • All caps formatting 
  • Relying on emoji to convey essential meaning 
  • Linking to inaccessible forms or documents 

Quality and Professional Standards 

Accessible text messages must be: 

  • Clear 
  • Direct 
  • Professional 
  • Action-oriented 
  • Easy to understand 

Accessible texting improves engagement and response while supporting institutional standards. 

Quick Check Before Sending a Text Message

Before sending: 

  • Is the message clear and concise? 
  • Are instructions easy to follow? 
  • Is the link descriptive? 
  • Is linked content accessible? 
  • Is essential information included in text? 
  • Would this make sense if read aloud by a screen reader? 

If yes, the message is ready to send. 

Digital Accessibility Menu