Video accessibility and inclusion are essential for reaching a wider and more diverse audience, as well as complying with legal and ethical standards. In this article, you will learn what are the best tools and practices for video transcription and audio description, two key components of video accessibility.
Video transcription is the process of creating a text version of the audio content of a video. Video transcription can be done manually or automatically, depending on the quality, accuracy, and budget required. Video transcription can help viewers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speak a different language to access the information and emotions of the video. Video transcription can also improve the searchability and discoverability of your video content online.
Audio description is the process of adding a voice-over narration that describes the visual elements of a video, such as actions, settings, characters, and expressions. Audio description can be done live or pre-recorded, depending on the format and distribution of the video. Audio description can help viewers who are blind, visually impaired, or have cognitive disabilities to enjoy the story and aesthetics of the video. Audio description can also enhance the engagement and comprehension of your video content for all viewers.
When it comes to transcribing your video, there are a variety of tools and methods to choose from depending on your needs and preferences. For example, you could use a professional transcription service, which can provide high-quality and accurate transcripts but at a cost. Alternatively, you could use an online transcription platform for fast and affordable transcripts, though the accuracy may be limited. You could also try a transcription software, allowing you to transcribe the video yourself with technical skills and manual editing. Lastly, you could use a transcription plugin or extension which can be used directly from your video editing software or browser, but its compatibility and functionality may vary.
I use AI to transcribe my videos, and I edit every single line afterwards to ensure it is accurate. I use the CapCut AI transcription tool called "Auto captions" under the "Text" tool in the menu bar. The AI transcription tool in Riverside.fm that I use for podcasts cannot be used to edit the text - so I have to export the video into CapCut. I have been recommended DeScript, where you edit the AI text and it edits the video at the same time. However, this might lead to awkward cuts in the video. AI transcription does save time, but it is not 100% accurate yet. Funny examples include AI picking up "free dancer" instead of the word "free lancer" and "Wright Clinic" instead of "Write Clinic". Transcribing is hard work, but worth it!
When adding audio description to your video, there are various tools and techniques you can use, depending on your goals and resources. For example, a professional audio description service can ensure high-quality narration, but it can also be expensive and complex. Alternatively, an online audio description platform can offer flexible narration, but it may have limitations in terms of voice options and customization. Additionally, an audio description software allows you to create your own narration, but it requires creative skills and audio editing. Lastly, an audio description plugin or extension enables you to add audio description without leaving your video editing software or browser; however, it depends on the compatibility and functionality of the plugin or extension.
After transcribing and describing your video, it is important to test and improve its accessibility to meet the standards and expectations of your audience. This can be done by checking the quality and accuracy of transcripts and audio descriptions with tools such as spell checkers, grammar checkers, and readability scores. Additionally, you should check the timing and synchronization of the text and audio with the video using waveform editors, caption editors, and audio description editors. It is also important to consider the format and delivery of your transcripts and audio descriptions with video players, converters, and embedders. Finally, feedback and analytics should be checked with surveys, comments, and metrics to measure and improve satisfaction and performance.