How to Make Accessible Word Documents

This virtual training is designed to clearly explain how to create an accessible document using Microsoft Word. It will demonstrate converting documents to PDF format and examine the required structure for assistive technologies.

This session is a comprehensive review of how layout and design principles and practices influence the outcome in the construction of a document intended for accessibility.

Through exercises and group discussions, participants will review the background and theory of accessibility and how it affects document creation; the necessary changes to their current workflow and processes; and how to layout content in documents for those with vision, motor and cognitive impairments.

Microsoft Word will be used to build an accessible document, followed by using Adobe Acrobat Professional DC to inspect any conversion issues or errors.

Best training I have ever had in a session!    Ontario College of Teachers

I have taken a few training courses but this was by far the most in-depth and informative.   Toronto Transit Commission (TTC)

Very interesting! Wish I had learned this earlier in my career. (Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada)

Learning outcomes

By completing this virtual training, participants will:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of accessible word document creation
• Learn how to prepare all text content for accessibility
• Will prepare graphical content for accessibility
• Understand why navigation is important in a document
• Review who is using accessible documents and their needs
• Become familiar with content design best practices – the do’s and don’ts
• Understand the importance of using accessible fonts
• Learn about how to modify and create custom text styles
• Understanding color blindness and the impact on graphic communications
• How to make graphic, WordArt and charts accessible
• Add custom bookmarks for navigation in their documents
• Review how to add descriptive file properties to a file
• Review the built-in accessibility checkers in both Microsoft and Acrobat
• And much more!

Great practical, hands-on exercises. (City of Pembroke)

Content was great and good delivery! I am leaving feeling educated about accessible communications and inspired to apply my knowledge immediately. (Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada)

Take Away 

Participants will be given a handout with reference to the content covered including step-by-step procedures.

Webinar Requirements

• Computer and computer mouse
• Microsoft Word 2016 or 2013
• Acrobat Professional Version DC or 11

This webinar was very helpful. I enjoyed the hands-on learning as well as being able to follow along with the trainer. The trainer answered all of our questions in a timely manner. (Durham Catholic District School Board)

Technical Notes

• Please ensure that your Acrobat Professional (not Reader) has been installed correctly within your Microsoft Word application.
• We suggest you do any installations a day or two before the webinar to ensure it is working properly.
• MAC users are welcome but must have the newest version of Microsoft Office and Acrobat Professional DC

Great tips and tools to aid in the process of making docs accessible. Looking forward to Part 2!  (Niagara Parks Commission)

Perfect! Met the level of accessibility training I need in my job and I learned a few new tricks.  (Ontario Government)

INCLUDED IN THE VIRTUAL TRAINING:

• High quality instruction by a Document Accessibility Specialist
• A Step-by-Step Reference Guide
• Digital Certificate of Completion