Recorded Video Quick Start Guide

If you record or publish video content, make sure it is accessible before sharing.

1. Captions Are Required. All recorded videos must include accurate captions.
   • Use auto-captions as a starting point only.
   • Review and correct errors.
   • Make sure captions are synced with the audio.
2. Don’t Rely on Audio Alone. Avoid sharing important information only through speech.
   • If something is shown visually (like a button, chart, or slide content), describe it clearly in the audio.
3. Make On-Screen Text Readable. If your video includes slides or screen recordings:
   • Use large, legible fonts
   • Ensure strong color contrast
   • Avoid overcrowded slides
4. Describe Important Visuals. Briefly explain what the viewer should notice, if you show:
   • Charts
   • Graphs
   • Demonstrations
   • On-screen instructions
5. Provide a Transcript (Recommended).
   • Transcripts improve accessibility, comprehension, and searchability — especially for longer or instructional videos.

Recorded Video Courses & Tutorials

• Google
  • Add subtitles & captions in YouTube Studio
  • Add caption tracks to your video files
  • How to add captions or subtitles to your video on Vimeo

If you host or stream a live event (webinar, virtual meeting, or live broadcast), accessibility must be considered during planning — not after. Use this guide before and during your event.

Live Video Quick Start Guide

1. Provide Live Captions. Whenever possible, enable live captioning (CART or platform-generated captions).
   • Confirm captions are turned on before the event begins.
   • Inform participants that captions are available and how to enable them.
   • For high-profile or large events, consider professional captioning services.
2. Identify Yourself Before Speaking. In larger meetings, say your name before speaking. For example, “This is Maria from Admissions…” This helps participants who rely on captions or are joining by phone.
3. Speak Clearly and at a Moderate Pace.
   • Avoid talking over others.
   • Pause between topics.
   • Mute when not speaking to reduce background noise.
4. Describe Important Visual Content. Do not assume everyone can see the screen clearly. Briefly describe what is being shown. Example: “This slide shows three steps: Apply, Submit Documents, and Confirm Enrollment.” Do this if you show:
   • Slides
   • Charts or graphs
   • Demonstrations
   • On-screen text
5. Use Accessible Slides. If presenting slides:
   • Use large, readable fonts
   • Ensure strong color contrast
   • Avoid overcrowded slides
   • Limit excessive animations
   • After the event, share accessible slide files whenever possible.
6. Avoid Relying on Color Alone.
   • Do not say: “Focus on the items in red.”
   • Instead say: “Focus on the items marked with an asterisk in the second column.”
7. Repeat Audience Questions. This helps participants who rely on captions or audio-only access. So, when participants ask questions:
   • Repeat the question before answering.
   • Ensure virtual questions in chat are read aloud.
8. Share Materials in Advance (When Possible). Providing slides or materials ahead of time allows participants using assistive technology to review content at their own pace.

Live Video Courses & Tutorials

• Google
  • Use live captions in Google Meet
  • Use Transcripts with Google Meet
  • View video transcripts
• Microsoft
  • Use live captions in Microsoft Teams meetings
  • View live transcription in Microsoft Teams meetings

• Google
  • Manage caption settings
  • Accessibility for YouTube mobile app
  • Use automatic dubbing
• Vimeo
  • Video accessibility at Vimeo
  • What you need to know