Skip to main content

Provide a Comprehensive Text Alternative for Prerecorded Media

Disabilities Affected: Hearing, Visual
Success Criterion: 1.2.8
Level: AAA
An alternative for time-based media (like a detailed transcript or synchronized text/audio description document) must be provided for all prerecorded synchronized media and for all prerecorded audio-only media.

Why It Matters

This provides a comprehensive text-based alternative that captures all information (audio and visual) from the media. It benefits users who are deaf-blind, those who prefer reading, users who need to search the content, and situations where playing media is not feasible. It combines the requirements for transcripts (1.2.1) and descriptions (1.2.3/1.2.5) into a single, complete alternative document.

Fixing the Issue

Create a single document (e.g., an HTML page) that includes:

  • All spoken dialogue, with speaker identification.
  • Descriptions of all meaningful non-speech sounds.
  • Descriptions of all important visual information (actions, settings, characters, on-screen text).
  • The descriptions should be placed logically within the transcript to reflect the timing and context of the original media. Provide a prominent link to this media alternative near the media player.

Good Code Example

Linking to a full media alternative document:

  • <video controls width="640" height="360" poster="video-poster.jpg">
       <source src="main-video.mp4" type="video/mp4">
       <track label="English Captions" kind="captions" srclang="en" src="captions_en.vtt" default>
       <track label="English Audio Description" kind="descriptions" srclang="en" src="description_en.vtt">
       Your browser doesn't support embedded videos.
    </track></track></source><p>
       <a href="full-media-alternative.html">View Text Alternative (includes dialogue, sound, and visual descriptions)</a>
    </p></video>

Bad Code Example

Providing only captions or standard AD, but no single comprehensive alternative:

  • <video controls width="640" height="360" src="main-video.mp4">
       <track label="English Captions" kind="captions" srclang="en" src="captions_en.vtt">
       <track label="English Audio Description" kind="descriptions" srclang="en" src="description_en.vtt">
    </video>
Search Ultimate Guide
Tablet displaying an eBook cover titled 'Integrating Accessibility Compliance Into Your Budget' by AccessiTREE. The cover features a digital tree with accessibility-related icons, symbolizing inclusive design and compliance.
Free eBook
Integrating Accessibility Compliance Into Your Budget
A Practical Guide for Healthcare Leaders Navigating the New HHS Ruling

Need Help with Compliance?
Our team is here to guide you through the process of meeting accessibility standards. Contact us today to get started.