How can you design video UX for accessibility?

1 Use captions and transcripts

Captions and transcripts are essential for users who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as for those who speak different languages, have low bandwidth, or prefer to read along. Captions are synchronized text that appear on the screen, while transcripts are separate documents that contain the full audio content. To create captions and transcripts, you can use automated tools, but make sure to review and edit them for accuracy, clarity, and readability. You should also provide options to turn on or off captions, adjust their size and color, and choose different languages.

2 Provide audio descriptions

Audio descriptions are narrated explanations of the visual elements in a video, such as actions, gestures, expressions, settings, or graphics. They are useful for users who are blind or have low vision, as well as for those who multitask or learn better by listening. Audio descriptions are usually inserted in the pauses between dialogues or sounds, but they can also be provided as a separate audio track. To create audio descriptions, you can use professional services, volunteers, or your own voice, but make sure to describe only the relevant and essential information, avoid spoilers, and match the tone and pace of the video.

3 Optimize video quality and performance

Video quality and performance can affect the accessibility and usability of your video UX, especially for users who have slow internet connections, limited data plans, or older devices. To optimize video quality and performance, you should use appropriate formats, codecs, resolutions, and bitrates, as well as adaptive streaming technologies that adjust the video quality based on the network conditions. You should also provide options to change the video quality manually, pause or resume the video, and download the video for offline viewing.

4 Design clear and consistent controls

Controls are the interactive elements that allow users to play, pause, rewind, fast-forward, mute, unmute, or adjust the volume of the video. They are important for users who have different preferences, abilities, or devices. To design clear and consistent controls, you should use recognizable icons, labels, and tooltips, as well as keyboard shortcuts, touch gestures, and voice commands. You should also ensure that the controls are visible, accessible, and responsive, and that they do not obscure or interfere with the video content.

5 Test and evaluate your video UX

Testing and evaluating your video UX is the final and crucial step to ensure that your video UX is accessible and user-friendly. You should test your video UX with different browsers, devices, and platforms, as well as with different tools and settings, such as screen readers, magnifiers, color filters, or captions. You should also test your video UX with real users, especially those who have disabilities or accessibility needs, and collect their feedback and suggestions. You should then analyze the results and make improvements based on the findings.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?