Where to Begin: Getting the Most from the Guide

If you are new to the guide or starting to learn about accessible and inclusion more generally, 9 key considerations can seem like a lot to start with. We encourage you to learn more about each of the key areas, but also want to know you don't have to do everything all at once. Even focusing on one or two of the areas to start is still making your events more inclusive and that will benefit everyone.

Here are a few suggestions of where to start.

Suggestion 1: Start by Reflecting on What You Already Do

Creating inclusive and accessible events doesn't mean starting from scratch. It is likely that you may already do some or many of the inclusive practices discussed in the guide. It is important to build from from those current practices. Review your processes or recent events and create a list of ways in which you focused on accessibility or inclusion. For instance, you may have:

Used videos with captions (Video and Audio)
Shared agendas in advance (Meeting Information and Follow-Up)
Provided digital copies of printed materials (Documents)
Picked locations that are easy for participants to access (Venue Accessibility) (Virtual Platforms)

All four of these things are common practices with event planning, but are also accessible practices. Begin by reflecting on what you already do and dive into modules that relate to your current practices. Again, the point is not to throw out everything you already do, but it is to use this guide to help enhance what you do.

Suggestion 2: Pick a Module Relevant to a Current Project

Though the guide is numbered, it is not intended to be used sequentially. In other words, you don't need to complete module 1 before you proceed to module 2. Rather, you can choose to begin in any module you find most relevant or interesting. For example:

If you have some training and developing coming up with your team, start with Key Consideration 6: Staff Development
If you are going to purchase some new technology for an upcoming event, start with Key Consideration 3: Promotion and Marketing
If you are planning your marketing campaign for your event, start with Key Consideration 3: Promotion and Marketing

The important thing is that there is not a specific place where you have to start. Just pick a module and jump in.

Suggestion 3: Start with One of the "5 Ways to Make Your Event More Accessible"

Make sure your materials are accessible
A great way to increase accessibility is to ensure your documents, images, and graphics are accessible by using Word to create headings with styles, alt-text, and descriptive links. (Key Consideration 1: Accessible Materials and Technology)
Check to make sure your videos have captions
Captions should be included on all videos. Many videos may already have captions, but beware of auto-captions. They are often not very effective. (Key Consideration 1: Accessible Materials and Technology)
Create a plan that allows for flexible participation
Participation and engagement does not have to happen in one way. Provide flexible options for participation. (Key Consideration 9: Participation and Engagement)
Choose an accessible location
Location matters. Whether you are hosting an in-person, remote, or hybrid event, make sure the event space is accessible and inclusive. (Key Consideration 4: Choosing a Location)
Provide a way for participants to request supports
Even when you plan for inclusion and accessibility, participants may still need to request supports. It is important to provide participants with a way to make a request. (Key Consideration 5: Accommodations)

For a visual overview of these 5 key things you can do, the UD Working Group created the following infographic: 5 Ways to Make Your Event More Accessible Download 5 Ways to Make Your Event More Accessible