Accessible Technology

Social Media Accessibility

The use of social media provides people with disabilities greater access to information and participation in community programs and services through the use of technology.

At the same time, the dynamic nature of social media may introduce challenges for some users with disabilities. Some tools do not adequately address accessibility and users of assistive technology find social media difficult to use.

Being mindful of the accessibility challenges and knowing ways to create accessible social media will allow you to more effectively reach your audience.

Quick Tips for User-Friendly Accessible Social Media

  • Use inclusive imagery -demonstrate the interests and concerns of a variety of participants in issues.
  • If a tweet contains an image, video or audio indicate this at the beginning of the content using the prefix [PIC], [VIDEO] or [AUDIO]. In addition, if a tweet or Facebook post includes one of these items, be sure to link back to the web page that contains the image, video or audio with a full caption/transcript.
  • Always put your main content first and put hashtags and @mentions at the end of a post - this is particularly important for screen reader users.
  • Avoid the use of acronyms, abbreviations and text messaging shortcuts.
  • If you are linking to a PDF document, make sure the document is tagged properly and accessible.  If it is not, also provide a link to a text alternative.
  • For blogs, ensure proper HTML markup is used such as headings, paragraphs and lists to help orient users and ensure clarity of the content.
  • Provide multiple ways to contact your organization such as, a Contact Us form or a general contact e-mail address for more information.
  • Announce new accessibility through blog/Facebook post.
  • Make accessibility practices the norm!

More information can be found at Cal Poly Pomona's Social Media & Accessibility Overview Guide (PDF).

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