If you’ve visited the EPIC Carteret Episode 1 show notes page, you may have noticed we now have multiple versions of the episode transcript available. Why?

Foremost in our minds is ensuring that our episodes are fully accessible to those with hearing impairments, because we want more people to be able to engage with our content. However, there are many valid reasons for making transcripts easily usable beyond hearing impairment. Some people can’t, or have no interest in, listening to a podcast, preferring to read the transcript because it’s faster. Or maybe you listened to it and want to quote it correctly on your own blog. Maybe you forgot to charge your headphones (a very modern issue).

Whatever the case, we hear you, and we’re here to make EPIC Carteret more fun for everyone. In fact, we built a whole website to explore, and our super-fancy podcast software can generate a transcript easily, making it convenient for us to share the words behind the podcast. That being said, the auto-generated transcript may not be the best way for everyone to read the content, and we do want everyone to be able to read it if they so choose. Thus, Accessibility Standards. Brought to you by the same people that brought you such perennial favorites as “Fonts” and “Document Formats.”

In one sense, Accessibility Standards can be seen as very mature Typography Rules. By mature, I mean it’s a deep rabbit hole. And by Typography Rules I mean things like ‘don’t put white text on a white background.’ Some of the rules are painfully obvious things that shouldn’t need to be stated while others are much more subtle. None of the accommodations come at the expense of other readers. Ultimately, using the format that is most readable is useful to everyone.

Throughout the entire EPIC Carteret website, consideration has been given to accessibility. The site builder we use is Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) compliant. Detailed information on the builder’s accommodations can be found on the Avada Accessibility Page. As we notice shortcomings and new options become available, we will continue to improve the site.

Online Versions: This format is arguably the most straightforward for anyone with internet access. By having our transcripts available online, we eliminate the need for downloading or installing additional software. They can be read on any device, from smartphones to desktops, and they’re easily shareable, which increases the potential reach.

Word Document: Offering a transcript in Microsoft Word format provides an additional layer of customization for our users. Some individuals may have specific visual needs or preferences when reading content, such as requiring a certain font size, type, or color for comfortable reading. By allowing them to adjust these settings, we’re catering to a diverse range of visual requirements. Additionally, the in-built accessibility checker in Microsoft Word ensures that the document meets accessibility standards, which is a valuable tool for content creators who aim to be inclusive.

PDF: While Microsoft Word is a fantastic tool, not everyone has access to it due to its cost. PDFs, on the other hand, are universally accepted and can be opened with numerous free software options. It’s a lightweight file format, making it easy to download and share. For many assistive technologies, PDFs are more straightforward, ensuring a wider range of people can access the content.

ePub: ePub is not just an ebook format; it’s a commitment to accessibility. The rigorous standards it adheres to ensure that content is not just readable but also usable for people with disabilities. As more assistive technologies lean towards ePub as their preferred standard, offering transcripts in this format allows us to future-proof our content. Additionally, those who regularly consume ebooks may find this format the most comfortable, as they can integrate the transcripts seamlessly into their existing reading libraries.

Migraine Friendly: Migraines can be debilitating, and specific visual stimuli can trigger or make them worse. “Migraine Friendly” version of transcripts use a blue text on a black background to reduce the likelihood of visual strain and potential migraine triggers. While it might seem niche, for someone prone to migraines, this thoughtful addition can make a world of difference. I first saw this format on The Writing Alchemy website where you can find “fairy tales that center marginalized characters in lively stories that tackle serious topics while maintaining a spirit of whimsy and humor” as well as “Elegant Handmade Journals and Sketchbooks” in their Etsy Shop Spell Binding Books.