Media Alternative (Prerecorded) ensures that everyone can follow the narrative by providing a complete text-based alternative that describes both the audio and visual elements, so nothing is left out.
Who this impacts
- People who are deaf-blind: A text alternative is crucial for accessing content that relies on both sight and sound.
- People using Braille displays or screen readers: A written description helps convey the content in a format that can be read aloud or displayed.
- Anyone in low-bandwidth situations: In places where streaming video isn’t feasible, a text alternative provides an accessible option.
How to meet Media Alternative (Prerecorded)
- Write a comprehensive text alternative: Cover dialogue, important sounds, visual actions, and on-screen text. Aim to describe the content as though the reader can neither see nor hear.
- Link it clearly: Make sure the alternative is easy to access, such as placing it immediately below the video or in a dedicated section.
- Update the text as needed: If the video content is edited, make sure the text alternative reflects any changes to maintain accuracy.
Example
Check out our Time-based Media transcript (or any of the other guidelines) as it has a full transcript with descriptions of visuals.
Top tips
- Consider the format: HTML-based text can be more accessible than downloadable files (like PDFs).
- Break down the content into sections: Use headings and subheadings to organize longer descriptions for better readability.
- Write with clarity: Make sure the text alternative is detailed but not overwhelming; focus on key elements.
- Provide context: Describe the purpose of visual elements and their role in the content, not just what they look like.
- Use plain language: Ensure the text is accessible to a wide range of readers, avoiding overly technical jargon.