Google Slides to PowerPoint Accessibility Review

In today’s post, we’re examining what happens when you convert an accessible Google Slides presentation to PowerPoint. You’ll learn what to look for to ensure PowerPoint accessibility in your own conversions.

Video Guide

We begin with a formatted Google Slide, complete with various elements like tables, images, hyperlinks, and titles. After downloading it as a PowerPoint file, we’ll examine how it fares in terms of accessibility.

PowerPoint Accessibility Check

Opening the PowerPoint file, the first step is to run an accessibility check. We quickly identify a missing table header, a common issue due to Google Slides’ limitations in adding table headers. Additionally, there’s a minor reading order discrepancy on slide two, where objects are not in the intended sequence.

Challenges with Basic Templates

While the PowerPoint file generally maintains accessibility, challenges arise with object naming, often appearing as generic “Google shapes.” This can pose difficulties in distinguishing various elements, especially in complex presentations.

Addressing Reading Order

Ensuring proper reading order is crucial for accessibility. Although most slides maintain the correct order, adjustments may be needed, particularly for titles and links. This ensures a seamless experience for users relying on screen readers.

Improving Table Accessibility

To enhance table accessibility, we explore options within PowerPoint, such as adding table headers and applying different styles. These adjustments contribute to clearer organization and understanding of tabular data.

Alt Text Review

Alt text, vital for describing images to users with visual impairments, is examined. Despite minor duplication issues, alt text generally transfers from Google Slides to PowerPoint, aiding in content comprehension.

Uncovered Challenges

Our evaluation highlights certain limitations inherent in the conversion process. Challenges include adjusting reading order within Google Slides, inaccessible chart and graph setups, and issues with master slide design themes.

While converting Google Slides to PowerPoint is feasible, it’s essential to acknowledge the trade-offs in accessibility features. Despite some limitations, basic accessibility standards can be met with careful adjustments and considerations.

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!