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Television Closed Captioning and Accessibility Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing television closed captioning and accessibility features, ensuring inclusive viewing experiences and regulatory compliance.

Television Closed Captioning and Accessibility Audit Checklist

by: audit-now
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About This Checklist

In the inclusive landscape of modern television broadcasting, ensuring accessibility for all viewers is not just a legal requirement but a moral imperative. This Television Closed Captioning and Accessibility Audit Checklist is a vital tool for compliance officers, production teams, and accessibility specialists to evaluate and enhance the quality of closed captions, audio descriptions, and other accessibility features. Regular implementation of this checklist helps broadcasters meet regulatory standards, improve the viewing experience for audiences with diverse needs, and demonstrate commitment to inclusive media practices. By systematically reviewing all aspects of accessibility in television content, networks can broaden their reach and ensure that their programming is available to the widest possible audience.

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Industry

Media and Entertainment

Standard

Media Accessibility Standards

Workspaces

Television Studios

Occupations

Accessibility Compliance Officer
Closed Captioning Specialist
Audio Description Writer
Accessibility QA Tester
Broadcast Standards Manager
1
Is the closed captioning implemented according to FCC Closed Captioning Quality Standards?
2
Are the captions timed correctly?
3
Is the audio description clear and informative?
4
Does the broadcast content reflect diverse perspectives?
5
Are the captions easy to read and understand?
6
Does the broadcast meet technical standards for accessibility?
7
Has user feedback been considered in the accessibility features?
8
Are there innovative approaches to enhance accessibility?
9
Are the captions accurate in representing the spoken language?
10
Is the font size and style of the captions appropriate for viewing?
11
Do the captions respect cultural sensitivities?
12
Is emergency information provided in the captions?
13
Are the captions synchronized with the video content?
14
Are additional accessibility features available (e.g., sign language interpretation)?
15
Is there accessible technical support available for users with disabilities?
16
Is there a mechanism for users to provide feedback on accessibility features?
17
Is the language used in captions consistent with the spoken content?
18
Are the captions visually clear against the background?
19
Is the overall user experience satisfactory regarding captioning?
20
Do the captions reflect diverse voices and perspectives?

FAQs

It's recommended to perform a comprehensive audit quarterly, with ongoing spot checks on a weekly basis. Additionally, specific audits should be conducted for new program launches or when implementing new accessibility technologies.

The audit examines closed caption accuracy, timing, and placement; audio description quality and appropriateness; subtitle options for multiple languages; user interface accessibility for electronic program guides; and compliance with specific regulations like the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA).

The audit should be led by the accessibility compliance officer, with input from captioning specialists, audio description writers, quality control teams, and representatives from deaf and blind communities to ensure comprehensive evaluation.

Enhanced accessibility features can lead to increased viewership, improved audience satisfaction across all demographics, positive brand perception, and potential new market opportunities, particularly in diverse and aging populations.

Advancements in AI-driven captioning, real-time translation technologies, and customizable user interfaces are enhancing the quality and efficiency of accessibility features. The audit should assess the implementation and effectiveness of these technologies.

Benefits of Television Closed Captioning and Accessibility Audit Checklist

Ensures compliance with accessibility regulations and standards

Improves viewing experience for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and visually impaired audiences

Reduces the risk of complaints and potential legal issues related to accessibility

Enhances the network's reputation for inclusivity and social responsibility

Expands the potential audience reach by making content accessible to more viewers