Inclusive communication

Inclusive communication means communicating in ways that embrace diversity in languages, cultures, and needs, and making sure that content is clear, easy, and enjoyable to read.

Inclusive communication involves not just language, but also tools and platforms.

Documents, presentations and emails

Particular things to be mindful of:

• What devices will this format work on? Will it work on a phone, tablet or computer?

• Can a screen reader understand and read this content? For instance, data tables are difficult for screen readers to read

• Color! Be mindful of your color choices, always aiming for contrasting colors which are easier to read. This TGPI tool can help verify accessible color choices. For Apple devices you can also use this accessibility checker for checking color contrast choices.

• Fonts: Use clean and legible fonts in readable sizes such as 11 or 12pt. Sans-serif fonts are noted to be easier to read than their serif alternatives. Strong choices include Verdana, Tahoma, Calibri, Helvetica, Lucinda sans and Arial. If using a serif font, Times New Roman and Georgia are good contenders. Read more on fonts here.

Useful resources

• Powerpoint: Microsoft has an accessibility guide for creating more accessible Powerpoints. They also include an accessibility checker on the “review” tab of most of their platforms (powerpoint, word, excel, outlook), which can be used for reviewing content you create.

• PDFs: Accessibilitychecker.org has a list of accessibility checkers that can be used for determining whather your PDF is compliant with Website Content Accessibility Guidelines.

• Video conferencing: The University of Virginia offers guidance for selecting more accessible features for video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Teams, Google Meet and Webex.