PDFs frequently pose accessibility challenges due to their inconsistent structure and lack of semantic tagging. Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) now offers efficient tools to transform these documents into accessible formats, making them inclusive for users with disabilities. Today, I’m sharing 3 ways to enhance PDF accessibility using AI.
Video Guide
1. Use Adobe Acrobat to Automate Accessibility
Step 1: Enable Cloud-Based Auto Tagging
Access Adobe Acrobat Pro DC and open the Preferences menu under the Accessibility section. Enable the option for “Cloud-based auto-tagging for accessibility” to activate automated tagging powered by AI.
Step 2: Auto-Tag the Document
Select “Prepare for Accessibility” and choose the auto-tag option. The tool applies a structured heading hierarchy, labels tables, and organizes basic content. This provides a solid starting point for accessibility improvements.
Don’t forget to apply The Accessibility Guy method for PDF accessibility once you’ve run the auto-tagger.
2. Use AI to Write Image Descriptions
AI can generate detailed and concise alternate text for complex graphics. For example, inputting a zoning map into tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google Gemini produces varied and context-aware descriptions.
Example Prompt from the companion video
“I am writing alternate text for a person with no vision. I have a complicated graphic that I want you to describe in detail. This is for a geology course.”
The tools identify map titles, zoning colors, geographic features, and layout orientation. They also create accurate alt text summaries in 150 characters or less, suitable for web accessibility.
3. Convert PDFs to HTML Using Doc Access
Doc Access, an AI-powered tool by Streamline, converts inaccessible PDFs into fully accessible HTML instantly.
Key Features
- Transforms scanned or untagged PDFs into structured, readable HTML
- Automatically detects headings and outlines
- Allows users to query document content
- Offers live translation in over 150 languages
- Provides seamless screen reader compatibility
Use the tool to make even the most difficult PDFs accessible within seconds, significantly reducing the need for manual remediation.
AI technologies have revolutionized PDF accessibility. Automated tagging, intelligent image description, and AI-driven conversion tools streamline the process of creating inclusive documents. By using Adobe Acrobat’s features and integrating AI solutions like Doc Access, organizations can meet compliance standards and support users with diverse needs more effectively.
Let me be your champion for inclusion. I offer tailored solutions (and self-paced courses!) to ensure your documents meet and exceed compliance expectations. For more detailed insights, tutorials, and in-depth discussions on accessibility and related topics, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel: The Accessibility Guy on YouTube. Subscribe for regular updates!
