Flikli believes in building towards a world where content is inclusive and accessible to all. Accessibility in video content is not just a legal requirement; it’s also an ethical responsibility. Here’s a checklist to ensure your video content is accessible to everyone.
Note: this list is not exhaustive, but will serve as a good jumping off point to integrating accessibility standards into your video content.
Closed Captions and Subtitles
Closed captions are crucial for deaf or hard-of-hearing viewers to access content, but they can also help those who need support following along or benefit from redundancy of information for cognitive processing. Even those who are watching in a noisy environment or prefer reading along to make sure no points are missed benefit from closed captions. For international audiences, provide subtitles in different languages.
Descriptive Transcripts
A descriptive transcript provides a text-based account of all spoken words and non-speech elements, such as sound effects and music descriptions. It helps those who need or prefer to read content or cannot watch the video due to technical limitations.
Audio Descriptions
Audio descriptions narrate important visual content in the video, making it comprehensible to visually impaired viewers or those who might be consuming the content in an audio-only format.
Easy-to-Read Text
Ensure that any on-screen text is large, clear, and contrasts with the background. Avoid complex fonts and consider how color-blind users might perceive the colors you choose.
Sign Language Interpretation
For some deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, sign language is their first language. Including sign language interpretation in video can make your content more inclusive.
Optimized Video Player
Ensure your video player is accessible, with controls that are clearly labeled and can be operated using a keyboard. Support for assistive technologies, like screen readers, is also crucial.
Content Warnings
If your video contains content that may trigger physical or psychological reactions, such as flashing images or sensitive topics, include a clear warning at the start.
Consider Pacing
Fast-paced videos can be hard to follow for some viewers. Consider the pacing of your video, providing adequate time for viewers to process each scene.
At Flikli, we take accessibility seriously. We strive to create animated video content that is engaging, inclusive, and accessible to all. Join us in our commitment to making the digital world more inclusive.
While standards are rapidly changing as technology advances to be more inclusive, hopefully, this list will serve as a good starting point.
Get in touch with Flikli to learn more.