OL98: Screen Reader Unable to Read HTML Formatted E-mail Message

The information in this article applies to:

• Microsoft Outlook 98

Symptoms

Screen readers used by those with low vision are unable to read HTML formatted e-mail messages in Microsoft Outlook 98.

Cause

Outlook does not expose the text in HTML format to allow screen readers to process the text.

Resolution

In order for screen readers to work correctly, you must send the mail in plain text, Microsoft Outlook Rich Text (RTF) or WordMail format.

To change the default mail format when sending mail, do the following:

1. On the Tools menu, click Options.
2. Click the Mail Format tab
3. Select "Microsoft Outlook Rich Text" in the "Send in this message format" list, and then click OK.