Use simple, clear language and avoid jargon to enhance understanding. Add descriptive alt text for images, ensure high-contrast colors, and use readable fonts (18pt+). Provide materials in multiple accessible formats, structure content with headings, offer live captions/sign language, test accessibility, enable flexible interaction, and give clear support instructions.
How Do You Create Accessible Presentation Materials That Promote Inclusion in Tech Talks?
AdminUse simple, clear language and avoid jargon to enhance understanding. Add descriptive alt text for images, ensure high-contrast colors, and use readable fonts (18pt+). Provide materials in multiple accessible formats, structure content with headings, offer live captions/sign language, test accessibility, enable flexible interaction, and give clear support instructions.
Empowered by Artificial Intelligence and the women in tech community.
Like this article?
Speaking at Tech Conferences as a First-Timer
Interested in sharing your knowledge ?
Learn more about how to contribute.
Sponsor this category.
Use Clear and Simple Language
When creating presentation materials, use plain and straightforward language. Avoid jargon unless it’s clearly defined, and keep sentences concise. This helps people with cognitive disabilities or those who are non-native English speakers better understand your content.
Incorporate Alt Text for Images
Ensure all images, diagrams, and graphics have descriptive alt text. This allows screen reader users to understand the visual content you're presenting. Be specific and explain the purpose of each image, not just what it depicts.
Choose High-Contrast Colors
Use color combinations with sufficient contrast between text and background to make reading easier for people with visual impairments, including color blindness. Tools like the WebAIM Contrast Checker can help verify appropriate contrast ratios.
Provide Multiple Formats of Materials
Offer your presentation slides and handouts in accessible formats such as PDF tagged for accessibility, text-only files, or HTML versions. Also, consider providing transcripts and captions for any embedded videos or audio.
Use Accessible Fonts and Sizes
Select fonts that are easy to read, like Arial or Verdana, and use a minimum font size of 18pt for presentations. Avoid decorative fonts, all caps, or tightly spaced text to improve readability for all attendees.
Structure Content with Headings and Lists
Organize your content with clear headings and bullet points. This helps screen readers navigate your materials efficiently and assists all users in following your key points and logical flow.
Offer Live Captioning and Sign Language Interpretation
During tech talks, providing live captions and sign language interpreters can greatly increase accessibility for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing. Include this support in your planning and announce it beforehand.
Test Accessibility Before Presenting
Use accessibility checkers and gather feedback from individuals with disabilities to test your materials. This testing helps identify and fix barriers before the talk, creating a more inclusive experience.
Allow Flexible Interaction Channels
Encourage questions and interactions through various channels such as chat, Q&A forms, or verbal participation. This ensures that attendees with different needs can engage comfortably.
Provide Clear Instructions and Support
Include instructions on how to access and use any digital tools or assistive technology relevant to your tech talk. Also, offer contacts or support for attendees needing additional help, signaling your commitment to inclusion.
What else to take into account
This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?