How to Make a Section 508 Compliant PowerPoint Template | WCAG

In the digital age, it’s essential to ensure accessibility and inclusivity. A common tool like PowerPoint should be no exception to this rule. This guide will navigate you through the process of creating an accessible PowerPoint template, enabling all users to engage with your content.

Video Guide

Starting the Accessibility Journey

Creating an accessible PowerPoint template starts with the basic steps. Launch PowerPoint and select ‘File’ then ‘New’ or opt for ‘Blank Presentation’. This opens up a blank canvas for designing your accessible template.

Constructing Master Slides for Accessibility

The next step involves the ‘Slide Master’. Access it by clicking on the ‘View’ button. Here, we can customize our master slide deck, forming the foundation for an accessible presentation.

Personal touches can be added in this section, such as including a logo or removing elements like the ‘Date’ field and footer. Remember to set alternate texts for images, aiding visually impaired users.

Content added in the master slides will be more accessible.

Optimizing Text and Bullets for Inclusivity

Customizing the text and bullet points is essential in crafting an accessible template. Changing the color of bullet points and modifying the slide title are just some of the techniques that can enhance accessibility.

Download the Free Section 508 Checklist for Microsoft PowerPoint:

Use a theme to start

Using a theme will keep your content in line with accessibility standards and make it easier to edit down the line.

Other things to do

• Adjust the reading order
• Apply the rest of your accessibility elements

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!