Wondering How AODA Applies To Video?
Did you know that Ontario has a mandate for all organizations who use video content, to follow the AODA video requirements. When thinking about all of the elements that must be considered for full accessibility, it can become slightly overwhelming. But, don’t worry we are here to give you some insight to what this means. AODA video requirements help ensure that video content is fully accessible to all individuals with disabilities. This guideline is an important factor, considering Ontario’s movement towards a fully inclusive digital space by 2025.
For video content to be considered fully accessible, it must include closed captioning for deaf or hard-of-hearing viewers and audio description or an alternative for blind or low-vision users. It is interesting to note that there is an official WCAG guideline for web designers to include audio description for all visual content in videos. However, the AODA guidelines do not require the same for audio description elements. Instead, there is an option for both creators and publishers to choose to include this element as a best practice. A strong alternative to this, suggests inclusion to all individuals with disabilities. This is possible, by making visual elements accessible in a different way, such as by providing transcripts that include both audio and visual elements.
After reading this you may feel overwhelmed, like wow, if I hadn’t thought of this, what other accessibility guidelines am I missing? If you need help making sure your digital elements meet the accessibility guidelines, don’t hesitate, reach out. We have a team of experts that would be glad to help. Let’s make the digital community a space where all individuals are included!