What are the best ways to make video content accessible and inclusive?

1 Use captions and transcripts

Captions are text versions of the audio that appear on the screen, usually at the bottom. Transcripts are text versions of the audio that are separate from the video, usually on a web page or a document. Both captions and transcripts can help people who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as people who speak a different language, have low bandwidth, or prefer to read along. You can use automated tools, such as YouTube's auto-caption feature, to generate captions and transcripts, but make sure to review and edit them for accuracy and clarity.

2 Provide audio descriptions

Audio descriptions are narrations that describe what is happening on the screen, such as actions, gestures, expressions, and scenery. They can help people who are blind or visually impaired, as well as people who have cognitive or learning disabilities, or who are multitasking. You can create audio descriptions by adding a separate audio track, using a voice-over tool, or inserting pauses in the original audio. You can also provide a text version of the audio description as an alternative.

3 Choose fonts and colors carefully

Fonts and colors can affect the readability and visibility of your video content, especially for people who have low vision, color blindness, or dyslexia. You should choose fonts that are clear, consistent, and large enough, and avoid fonts that are too fancy, too similar, or too small. You should also choose colors that contrast well, and avoid colors that are too bright, too dull, or too similar. You can use tools, such as WebAIM's Color Contrast Checker, to test your font and color choices.

4 Avoid flashing and flickering

Flashing and flickering can cause seizures, headaches, nausea, and dizziness for some people, especially those who have epilepsy, migraines, or sensory sensitivities. You should avoid using flashing and flickering effects, such as strobe lights, rapid transitions, or animations, in your video content. If you do use them, you should warn your viewers beforehand, and provide an option to skip or turn off the effects.

5 Be mindful of diversity and representation

Diversity and representation are not only about accessibility, but also about inclusion and respect. You should be mindful of how you portray people from different backgrounds, cultures, identities, and experiences in your video content, and avoid stereotypes, biases, or discrimination. You should also seek to include diverse voices and perspectives in your video content, and give credit and acknowledgment where appropriate.

6 Test and improve your video content

Testing and improving your video content is an ongoing process that can help you identify and address any accessibility and inclusion issues. You can use tools, such as WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool, to check your video content for accessibility errors and warnings. You can also ask for feedback from your audience, especially those who have different abilities, preferences, and backgrounds, and listen to their suggestions and concerns.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?