Hi all, let's begin our next edition of the Tip of the Week discussion! Accessibility and inclusion have always been important, but with rising numbers of people living with a disability, it's now, more than ever, a fundamental part of your event planning.
Whether staging a small meeting or a large conference, carefully considering accessibility will ensure all your attendees have a positive and inclusive event experience.
5 Steps to Planning Accessible Events
1. Registration
These could include questions such as:
- Do you require captions?
- Do you require a sign language interpreter?
- Will you be accompanied by a service animal or Personal Care Assistant (PCA)?
- Do you need wheelchair access?
2. Onsite Experience
To improve the onsite experience, put yourself in the shoes of a person with disabilities (PWD) and consider their entire attendee journey.
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Service animals
- Wellness spaces
- Stage sets and lighting
3. Virtual and Hybrid Events
Making your events accessible also extends to virtual and hybrid formats. Here are some tips:
- Since not everyone attending virtually can see or interpret the presentation slides, ask presenters to explain visual content.
- If you can offer a sign language interpreter, make sure they're always on screen and appropriate size to be legible.
4. Communication and Information Accessibility
Including accessibility information in the design of your pre-event communications is critical.
For instance, add a simple line at the base of posters or flyers written in black text on a light background that reads, 'Our theatre is wheelchair accessible' or 'A sign language interpreter will be available.'
5. Staff Training and Awareness
Create a culture of inclusion by ensuring that everyone involved in the planning and execution of your event is given training.
Accessibility in event planning is a must. With over a billion people, or 16% of the world's population, experiencing some form of disability, making your events more accessible and inclusive is a moral and legal obligation.
- Have you ever worked with attendees who have specific accessibility needs? If yes, how did you ensure they were accommodated?
- How do you see the future of event planning evolving to better accommodate people with disabilities?
Your opinions really help other community peers stay in the know. So, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below! #CventTip
#ManagingOn-site
#ManagingVirtualEvents
#ManagingOn-site
#ManagingVirtualEvents
------------------------------
Megha Jetley
Manager
Cvent Marketing Department
------------------------------