It feels like every week there are new updates, new functions and new opportunities for creators on the world's social media platforms. And despite the growing opportunities for companies, creators and private individuals, not many have yet put the topic of “accessibility” on their agenda. Accessible content not only plays a role for websites, but also in social networks - and not only for good karma points, but also for rewards with reach through algorithms. 

What is accessibility on social media?

We have examined “accessibility on the internet” in relation to websites in another article and prepared it for you. You can find it on our blog. But now let's take a look at what “accessibility” means on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and the like. 

On social media, we talk about “accessible posting” in this context. The major social networks are highly visual, with images and videos making up the majority of content. However, not everyone is able to consume this content.

Accessible posting means, on the one hand, being aware of the responsibility we have as content providers towards people with disabilities and, on the other, integrating these special needs into our media planning. This means designing our social media content in such a way that it is also accessible and usable for people with disabilities.

Accessible and consumable for everyone - that is our credo. For people with visual and hearing impairments, content on platforms with a strong visual and auditory focus such as Instagram and the like should be adapted accordingly. 

How can you make social media accessible?

Sounds wonderful, but it's not that easy to implement, is it? As this topic has been on the agenda for some time, there are measures, tools and options that can help. 

A few examples: 

• Text descriptions for images and videos to listen to: People with visual impairments can listen to these descriptions of images and videos to find out what the content is. 

• Subtitles for videos: Subtitles for videos are probably the simplest and “best known” option and are already used in many places. 

• Simple language: The use of simple language and short sentences can make it easier for people with learning difficulties or cognitive impairments to understand content.

• Accessible keyboard operation: All functions of a platform should also be controllable via the keyboard so that they can be used by people with motor impairments.

We have therefore understood that it is not just about the content itself, but that the operation should also be adapted accordingly. 

What are the benefits for companies of accessible content on social media?

Accessibility on social media offers businesses a number of benefits, including increased reach. Today's algorithms are already starting to reward content that can be consumed in a variety of ways. 

By making social media presences accessible, companies can reach a wider audience, including people with disabilities. This can have a positive impact on your own image, as acting responsibly and being considerate, especially when it comes to content, shows that the needs of all people are taken equally seriously. Of course, this is not indispensable in terms of increasing customer satisfaction. 

Establishing contact can be made easier, because a barrier-free option for controlling or operating the platforms can make many things easier. 

And of course: companies demonstrate that they care about who sees and can consume their content. A point that should definitely not be neglected. 

You can read more, for example, in the OMR article or at OMT.

Summary

Accessible social media is not only a moral obligation, but also an economic opportunity for companies. By making their social media presence accessible, companies can expand their reach, improve their image, increase customer satisfaction and make a decisive statement: People matter to this company. 

You can find more exciting topics in our blog - please click here.