How to Create an Accessible PowerPoint Export
Audiovisual Media
Slides
In the latest version of PowerPoint, you can use the built-in Accessibility Checker to make sure your presentation is accessible and meets all key requirements. After making the adjustments, export the file as an accessible PDF. This ensures that SlideSync can read the document correctly and completely. A step-by-step guide is provided below.:
- To do this, please go to the “Review” tab.
IMPORTANT: PowerPoint’s Accessibility tool helps you spot common barriers, especially in presentations with simple content. The same basic principles apply as for accessible web content: clear structure, meaningful alternative text, and correct tagging of elements are essential.
Our article “Hierarchy & Structure” is a good starting point, though it focuses on text within the description editor. Since presentations may include other elements not covered there, we recommend exploring more resources on accessible presentation design.
Please note: SlideSync does not currently support accessible HTML conversion of tables, images, or diagrams from PowerPoint files.
3. Once your presentation meets accessibility standards, export it as a PDF: In PowerPoint, go to “File” and select “Create PDF/XPS Document” at the bottom. PowerPoint will alert you if any accessibility issues remain.
You can now upload the exported PDF to SlideSync as usual and use it as your presentation.
Impact for Screen Readers
When you create an accessible PowerPoint presentation as described in the previous step, export it, and upload it to SlideSync, a structured alternative text in HTML format is automatically generated. This allows screen reader users to follow along with the slide content.
For example, a slide like this:
Displayed as the following alternative text:
The text is structured so screen readers can interpret it completely and accurately. It is placed directly next to the slide image to give users clear and logical orientation.
In addition, SlideSync recognizes when slides change and announces this through the screen reader, keeping all participants informed at all times.