Accessibility matters because disability is part of everyday life: more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States report having a disability. To support participation, share accessible materials in advance, offer Communication Access Realtime Translation when needed, schedule sign language interpreters early, describe key visuals aloud, ensure polls and activities are accessible, and provide multiple ways to take part.

• Share accessible materials before the event.
• Offer Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) Services.
• Schedule American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters as early as possible.
• Use accurate captions for live or recorded content.
• Describe important visuals, charts, and activities aloud.
• Make sure polls, links, and activities work with keyboard-only navigation and screen readers.
• Offer more than one way to participate or ask questions.
• Provide contact information and accessibility support before and during the event.

For virtual and In-person events, ensure a seamless, inclusive experience for all attendees by leveraging Microsoft Teams' built-in accessibility features, virtual meetings guidelines, live streaming, and event production resources. 

• Visit the Modern Workplace SharePoint for additional information on hosting a Teams Meeting or a Webinar.
• Explore Microsoft Teams Accessibility features to better support all participants.
• Contact Media Services for support with internal and external live-streaming events, coordinate sound, lighting, and multiple camera setups for your event production needs?

1. Submit an A/V Equipment Request and Even Assistance.
2. Submit a Video Recording or Live Streaming Request.
3. Visit the Conference and Event Services for additional event planning support.
4. Contact the Digital Accessibility and Assistive Technology Team at [email protected].

When using a virtual platform other than Microsoft Teams, review its accessibility features and confirm they are available to support all participants.. 

• Zoom – Accessibility

• Zoom – Getting Started with Closed Captioning

• GoToMeeting Accessibility Features

• Using Hangouts with a Screen Reader; Keyboard Shortcuts for Hangouts

• Google Meet Accessibility

• BlueJeans Accessibility Features 

• Students may notify the Online Accessibility Center or Campus Accessibility Center.
• If an employee indicates that camera use creates a hardship due to a medical condition or disability, direct them to complete an accommodation request form so the situation can be reviewed through the appropriate process.

Use these accessibility articles to help plan and deliver virtual and in-person events that support different audience needs and encourage participation.

• Download the Accessibility Presentation Checklist
• Accessible Speaking Best Practices - Deque Systems
• Download the American Bar Association’s Virtual Meetings: Accessibility Checklist & Best Practices guide.
• Guidelines for Writing About People with Disabilities

• Disability Language Style Guide