Video & Multimedia

Video and multimedia content must be accessible to users who cannot see, hear, or interact with content in the same way.

This includes providing captions for all videos, transcripts for audio-only content, and audio descriptions when visuals convey important information.

Images should include alt text that explains their purpose, while decorative images should be marked appropriately. Multimedia should never be the only way information is shared— key messages must also be available in text form.

Why This Matters

Captions, descriptions, and transcripts ensure content can be accessed in multiple ways.

Do

• Always provide captions for videos. This allows people who are hearing impaired to engage with your content.
• Review captions throughly for accuracy before publication.
• Always provide transcripts for audio-only content. This allows people who are visually impaired to engage with your content.
• Consider providing audio descriptions (narration that describes visual content for blind or low-vision users.)

Don’t

• Don’t post silent, uncaptioned video.
• Don't rely on auto-captioning features without checking for accuracy.
• Don't enable auto-playing features for videos or audio.
• Do not use features that create flashing or strobe effects. This can be harmful to those who experience seizures.
• Be weary of social media format that don't support captions, such as Instagram Stories.

Resources

CAPTIONS

• Captions on YouTube
• Captions on Google Meet recordings

transcripts

• Google Docs Voice Typing
• YouTube auto-captioning
• Otter.ai