Podcasts

Adding podcasts to a website is a popular way to provide more dynamic content to a website. Podcasts, like any audio content, should be accessible.

Provide a transcript

The most important way to create an accessible podcast is to provide a transcript. All prerecorded audio must provide the equivalent information, typically in the form of a text transcript.

• Include a descriptive link to the podcast transcript near the audio file or embedded player, preferably immediately after.
• Transcripts should be provided via:
  • A page within your site
  • Simple text file. If linking to a text file, append “(.txt)” to the link text.
• When using an automated speech-to-text process, be sure to review the generated transcript for accuracy.
• In addition to being accessible to a wider audience, including a transcript will also increase search engine optimization (SEO).

Use an Accessible Player

Many audio hosting services provide an audio player when embedding a podcast in a web page. Make sure the player you select is accessible.

• Do not set to auto-play. It can be distracting when an unexpected audio starts, let the user decide.
• Player controls should be keyboard accessible. Can the user operate all the controls only with the keyboard without requiring a mouse?

If you decide to provide a direct link to the audio file, instead of using an embedded player, append the file type to the link text (example: “Commencement Podcast May 2021 (mp3)”)

Reference: WCAG 1.2.1 Audio Only (prerecorded)