The power of video content is undeniable. Over three billion internet users engage with videos monthly and that number keeps growing. In short, the potential for reaching a massive audience with video content is exponential. In order to capture maximum reach, marketers and creators must maximize accessibility in their video content. Our video accessibility checklist can help you take full advantage.
Marketers and content creators have a pervasive blind spot when it comes to video content: accessibility. Today, 42.5 million Americans have a disability and an estimated 1.3 billion people experience disability worldwide. In other words, non-accessible video content misses out on 13% of the American population and 16% of the global population.
Not only is video accessibility ethically essential, but it’s also a huge opportunity to maximize performance. At SketchDeck, we ensure all of our video projects are riveting and accessible, so our clients can captivate the widest audience possible. We’ve created a fool-proof overview of video accessibility and a video accessibility checklist to help ensure your future video content is open to everyone.
What is Video Accessibility and why does it matter?
Video accessibility, part of the broader practice of digital media accessibility and web accessibility, ensures differently-abled viewers can access and understand video content. Whether it’s hearing, visual, or mobility impairments, language barriers, or cognitive differences, addressing these different needs is crucial to creating an inclusive viewing experience.
The Benefits of Accessible Videos
Making videos accessible isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s a strategic move with plenty of advantages. If you know what you’re doing, video accessibility is low-cost, efficient and the easiest way to expand your video reach.
Here are a few of the benefits provided by video accessibility:
Enhanced Viewer Experience
Features like subtitles and audio descriptions improve comprehension for everyone, leading to increased engagement.
Broader Audience Reach
By catering to diverse needs, your content becomes globally inclusive, appealing to a wider demographic.
Increased Engagement
Accessibility features like captions engage viewers regardless of their hearing abilities or volume preferences ensuring your message is universally received.
Longer Watch Times
A better viewing experience means higher retention, impacting the overall effectiveness of your content.
Improved SEO
Accessibility features like captions and transcripts enhance your video’s visibility in search engine rankings, boosting discoverability.
Deepening Brand Connection
Building trust requires videos that tell a brand story rooted in core values, connecting you with viewers on a deeper level. Ensuring your videos are accessible to all viewers reflects your brand’s commitment to inclusivity and helps more viewers connect with your brand.
Video Accessibility Checklist
At SketchDeck, every video project adheres to our comprehensive checklist so our video content is both accessible and inclusive. The good news is most video platforms offer these features, like closed captions and adjustable playback speed, as built-in functions. All you need to do is make sure the features are turned on. For more complex features not built into your hosting platform, it’s best to consult a professional video editor.
Here’s everything included in our video accessibility checklist:
Closed Captions
Include accurate and synchronized captions for all spoken content and vital sound effects. Most platforms will auto generate closed captions. Still, make sure to talk to your editor or production team if you want to ensure your captions match your brand voice.
Audio Descriptions
Include narration of visual elements and actions for the visually impaired.
Comprehensive Transcripts
Provide detailed transcripts covering spoken words and describing visual and non-speech audio.
Readable Text
When it comes to captions, use clear, large-sized text with high-contrast colors for improved visibility.
Color Accessibility
Avoid reliance on color alone to convey critical information.
Screen Reader Optimization
Guarantee and test compatibility with screen readers for interactive elements.
Language Options
Include subtitles in multiple languages for global accessibility.
Adjustable Playback Speed
Include controls for playback speed to account for different comprehension needs.
Keyboard-Navigable Controls
Include keyboard video controls for users reliant on keyboards instead of a mouse or mouse pad.
Seizure-Triggering Content
Use caution and provide warnings when using visuals that could trigger epilepsy (e.g., strobe effect).
Flashing and Sensory Triggers
Always provide warnings for potential health triggers in videos.
Responsive Design
Guarantee and test accessibility across various devices for diverse user needs. Watch your videos on a phone, on a computer, with and without earbuds to get a true sense of the video. Be sure to talk with your editor to ensure you’re meeting industry standards for all settings.
User Testing
Incorporate regular video content testing with diverse audiences, including people with disabilities.
Committing to video accessibility
Ensuring video accessibility isn’t just a box to check—it’s a commitment to inclusivity, audience empowerment, and supporting your KPIs. By following this video accessibility checklist, you can create video content that resonates with a wider audience while affirming your dedication to accessibility and inclusivity. At SketchDeck, we believe that accessible design isn’t just a trend—it’s an ethos and a savvy business strategy. Join us in championing video accessibility, making content more impactful, engaging, and inclusive for all.
