By: Sarah Tarpey and Marta Swirydowicz
Communication has been the cornerstone of civilisation’s growth and success since the beginning. It’s the tool we use to connect, share and refine ideas, and make an impact. In today’s digital age, making sure our communications are accessible to everyone is crucial. Digital accessibility not only bridges that gap but also promotes inclusivity and equal opportunity.
When we share digital information, it's important to take steps that ensure a barrier-free experience for everyone, including the many Canadians who rely on assistive technology. At Abilities Centre, we are committed to making digital communications accessible for all. By learning how to create accessible documents, you can help build inclusive communications that allow everyone to participate in their community.
Understanding Barriers to Digital Accessibility
Assistive technology (AT) includes products that maintain or improve an individual’s functioning and independence. For digital documents such as PDF(Portable Document Format), Microsoft Word, PowerPoint files, or Google Docs, individuals may use devices like screen readers to access the information. These technologies foster inclusion and participation, particularly for people with disabilities.
However, among the 6.2 million Canadians with disabilities, over 54% do not have the tools they need to fully participate in their communities (Statistics Canada, 2017). This number grows when considering all types of disabilities and the broader need for accessible digital content.
Creating accessible documents removes barriers, ensuring everyone can access information that is easy to read and understand. This includes using proper headings, alternative text for images, accessible tables, and ensuring documents are compatible with screen readers. Beyond the ethical and legal requirements, such as compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), creating accessible documents fosters a more inclusive society where everyone is given an equal opportunity to participate.
Innovative Approaches to Digital Accessibility
Building accessible documents is the first step toward BIG change. Here at Abilities Centre, we are committed to continuously learning and researching new ways to remove barriers, not just for people with disabilities but for EVERYONE!
Our Accessible Document Training focuses on the technical skills and software needed to create accessible digital content. We emphasize a comprehensive approach because not all technology addresses all disabilities. It’s essential to think beyond basic accessibility checkers to include as many people as possible.
We teach participants how to use proper heading styles, create logical document structures, and use accessible color contrasts. We also highlight common mistakes, such as using images without alternative text, and show how to avoid them. Our training covers various tools and software, including the Microsoft Accessibility Assistant, to help participants create documents that are both accessible and compliant.
By making accessibility part of the planning stage for any document or project, we can make a meaningful difference. This proactive approach ensures that accessibility is not just an afterthought but an integral part of the creation process, benefiting a wider audience and promoting inclusivity.
Transforming Digital Content Through Training
Abilities Centre offers Accessible Documents Training to both internal staff and external organizations. Participants have found the training to be transformative, providing them with practical skills and a deeper understanding of accessibility.
These testimonials illustrate the positive impact of the training. Participants leave with the confidence and knowledge to create accessible documents, ensuring that their communications are inclusive and reach a broader audience. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the real-world benefits and the difference this training makes in fostering an inclusive day-to-day environment.
Now I know how to make sure my work is accessible for those using [assistive technologies.]
[This training shows] the importance of building accessible [from the beginning] so it's not an afterthought.
Thank you very much to [Abilities Centre] for sharing this skillset with us all so we can ensure we are distributing accessible content to our staff, students and community.
Conclusion: Make A Difference Today
Learn how you can create accessible documents and make a difference. Contact Training and Education at edu@abilitiescentre.org to get started today!
About the Authors:
Sarah Tarpey
Senior Graphic Designer
A seasoned Senior Graphic Designer, who is deeply passionate about purpose-driven projects that champion accessibility and inclusivity. her expertise lies in crafting accessible designs for both print and online mediums, bridging gaps and bringing people closer together through cohesive and engaging content.
With a rich background spanning over a decade in the not-for-profit sector, she is dedicated to diverse portfolios encompassing sport and recreation, revenue development, as well as training and education.
Marta Swirydowicz
Senior Coordinator, Training and Education
Marta Swirydowicz has been at the Abilities Centre since 2021 and that is when she began her learnings on Accessible Communication and Accessible Spaces utilizing the AODA, OBC and Universal Design Standards going above and beyond legislation.
Marta brings a wealth of experience supporting her son in the neuro-diverse community as well as her sister who has vision loss and hearing loss has accelerated her learnings to push accessibility and inclusion forward. Marta is also passionate in ensuring that our physical spaces are accessible to everyone. Furthermore, she has expertise in auditing healthcare organizations, hotels, municipal and recreational buildings as well as external facilities including parks and playgrounds.
In her spare time, she likes traveling, working out, and spending time with her family and volunteering on the Whitby Accessibility Advisory Committee including two sub committees, Customer Service and Design of Public Spaces.
Resources
Accessibility Findings from the Canadian Survey on Disability, 2017 (statcan.gc.ca)
Accessibility Statistics (statcan.gc.ca)