Video accessibility
Description
Accessible video ensures that everyone can engage fully with multimedia localization content – whether watching, listening or reading along. It covers both the visual and auditory dimensions of accessibility, ensuring that information is conveyed clearly through multiple sensory channels.
Key elements of video accessibility include: Captions and subtitling for people who are deaf or hard of hearing; Audio description for viewers who are blind or visually impaired; Transcription that makes dialogue and narration searchable and screen-reader friendly; and Sign language interpretation to support inclusivity and real-time understanding. Video accessibility is guided by standards such as WCAG 2.2 and regional regulations including the European Accessibility Act and ADA. Beyond compliance, accessible video enhances user engagement, search visibility and content reach – especially in multilingual and global contexts. By integrating accessibility early in the video production process, organizations can create richer, more inclusive digital experiences that resonate worldwide.
Example use cases
- Communications: Produce accessible executive messages, training videos and internal updates.
- Education: Deliver video lessons with captions, transcripts and descriptions for all learners.
- Marketing: Localize and caption promotional videos for global audiences.
- Public sector: Meet legal accessibility requirements for online video content.
- Healthcare: Provide accessible video guidance for patients and professionals.
Key benefits
RWS perspective
At RWS, video accessibility brings together our deep localization expertise and intelligent multimedia technology. Our teams combine human creativity – including captioners, AI voiceover artists and sign language specialists – with AI-powered automation for faster, scalable video production.
We ensure every video we adapt is accessible, accurate and culturally appropriate, whether through multilingual captions, AI-generated voiceovers or high-quality sign language interpretation. By blending accessibility and localization, RWS helps global brands deliver video experiences that are inclusive by design – reaching every audience, on every platform, in every language.