Accessibility Services
Social Media Accessibility
Guidelines
Content
- Provide alt text or detailed image descriptions. This can be done using a platform’s alt text tools or by putting a brief description in the caption of a post.
- Minimize the use of emojis and place a space between each one. Screen readers read out each emoji, so be mindful of how the emoji will translate to text.
- Avoid overusing capital letters. Many screen readers read each letter aloud rather than the entire word if in all caps.
- Provide clear wording, avoiding the use of abbreviations and acronyms.
- Avoid special characters. Using special fonts decreases legibility for assistive tools.
- Use shortened hyperlinks to allow easier navigation for users with screen readers.
Hashtags
- All hashtags and mentions should be included at the end of posts to assist users of screen readers.
- CamelCase should be used for all hashtags, where the first letter of all words is capitalized (e.g. #AccessToAll).
Images
- Do not use text inside the image, since screen readers are unable to read it.
- Do not rely on color to convey meaning in images.
- All descriptions for images should go beyond labelling. Try to use details such as color, what object is being shown, and the purpose of the image.
- Avoid flashing, flickering, or blinking items like GIFs. They are not compatible with most screen readers and can be dangerous for some.
Videos
- All videos should have accurate open or closed captioning.
- Use larger text for captioning with good contrast between the background and chosen captions.
- When possible, avoid having videos play automatically.
Instructions
For platform-specific instructions on how to make content accessible, please visit the links below:
Resources
WAVE Browser extensions- This extension allows for users to check any website and its content for accessibility.
Cliptomatic- This app automatically adds captions to Instagram Stories, TikTok videos and Snaps.
Contrast Checker- This webpage allows for users to upload an image to check for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards for color contrast.
YouDescribe- This webpage can be used to create descriptive audio for YouTube videos.
Readability Test Tool- This tool allows for users to input a web URL or text to check for readability to comply with standards for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines.
For more details on the industry standard for accessibility online, please visit https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/