When considering hosting a virtual event, it's hard to deny the benefits such a setup brings: lower cost, incredible reach, and advanced analytics tracking, to name a few. Virtual events are a great way to deliver a unique and unforgettable experience to attendees ... all attendees. This is an important opportunity to consider the unique challenges some of your attendees could face when attending your virtual event, and ensure the experience is accessible to everyone.
- Event Navigation: Ensure all navigation items are sequential, labeled clearly, and meets appropriate visibility standards. This will let keyboard-only users navigate easily.
- Pop-Ups: Do not include pop-ups, unexpected sounds, or flashing; this could disrupt the user experience and unintentionally disturb folks with light or sound sensitivities.
- Color Contrast: Ensure text can be read easily so attendees with visual impairment or cognitive disabilities can attend your virtual event and have a positive experience.
- Text Size: Make sure your event still looks great zoomed in -- lots of people have their browsers at up to 200% zoom, or use assistive technology to read webpage text more easily.
- Narration: Create audio descriptions for presentations for people who can't see them, and make sure your pages work well with a screen reader to allow guests with visual impairments to immerse themselves in the event.
- Captioned Webinars & Videos: Use closed captioning to allow users with visual impairments (or even just users without headphones) to consume multimedia content without sound.
An inaccessible virtual event is an inadequate virtual event. It's time to step up and take the needs of your whole audience into account in order to ensure an inclusive experience for all. Respecting participants' needs is important - not only will it positively reinforce your brand experience, but it's the right thing to do.
Interested in learning more about accessibility? Let's connect.