Images, charts, processes, and other graphical content must include alternative text to make visual content accessible to people with vision impairments. See the Alternative Text guidelines.

For Word or PowerPoint files, check accessibility using the built-in accessibility checker in those applications. Make any needed edits before uploading the files into UB Learns or sharing them through other channels.

Follow the Word accessibility guidelines and accessibility checklist.

Follow the PowerPoint accessibility guidelines and accessibility checklist.

Note that accessibility checkers have limitations and should be used in conjunction with the Accessibility Checklists to ensure compliance with the ADA Title II regulations.

Remediation depends on how the file was created.

• If the PDF was made from a Word or PowerPoint file, check accessibility in that source file before creating the PDF. The PDF needs to be saved using a format that preserves the digital accessibility features. See the Word and PowerPoint accessibility guidelines and checklists.
• If a source file is not available, use Adobe Acrobat Pro to check and remediate accessibility issues. Use the PDF accessibility guidelines and checklist. Acrobat Pro is available through a UB enterprise license. Please contact your Department IT for support.
• If the PDF is an external document, such as a journal article or eBook from UB Libraries: 
  • Do not assume digital content is accessible from UB Libraries. UB Libraries is working to improve the digital accessibility of publisher content through future licensing agreements, but these changes will take time to implement. Faculty are responsible for ensuring that any resources they assign to students meet accessibility requirements.
  • Reach out to your subject librarian for support.
  • Search for an HTML and EPUB format as they tend to be more accessible and run them through an HTML or EPUB accessibility checker to confirm.
  • Use Adobe Acrobat Pro to check and remediate your PDF content using the PDF accessibility guidelines and checklist. Acrobat Pro is available through a UB enterprise license. Please contact your Department IT for support.
• Note that accessibility checkers have limitations and should be used in conjunction with the Accessibility Checklists to ensure compliance with the ADA Title II regulations.

Depending on the type of video or audio content created, captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions may be required. See the accessibility guidelines on Video and Audio content to determine what is required for your specific case.  

Note that instructor-created videos made in Zoom or Panopto have automated captions, and they may need to be edited manually for accuracy to meet the ADA Title II regulations.

There may be digital course materials that are essential for student learning, but are difficult to remediate. For example, images of historical documents, video animations, artwork, etc. In these cases, please request a consultation to explore options.

For additional training, register for an upcoming CATT virtual session on creating accessible content in UB Learns, Word, PowerPoint, or PDF.  For individual support, reach out to your Unit Accessibility Liaison or submit a ticket through CATT.