M365 Accessibility features
Microsoft includes a number of built-in accessibility tools in Microsoft 365 applications and the Windows operating system. For a full overview of their tools and learning opportunities, check out the on Microsoft Support.
They also have extensive resources you can use to make sure any content you create—like documents, emails, or SharePoint sites— is accessible for your audience.
Resources for users
If you're looking for accessibility tools for yourself or others, Microsoft Support has several easy to read lists of their tools.
- has tools for people who are blind, people with low vision, and people with a vision disability, such as colour blindness.
- has tools for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- has tools for people with dyslexia, seizures, autism, ADHD, or other cognitive disabilities.
- has tools to improve reading, writing, and math skills.
- has tools for people who have limited reach, strength, or dexterity or physical or mobility disabilities.
Resources for making accessible content
It's important to think about accessibility when making content for others at UVic. Every document, email, and webpage we write should be created with as few barriers as possible. Some simple changes in your process can make a world of difference to a student, colleague, or community member with different physical and cognitive abilities.
This section includes UVic resources as well as information from vendors like Microsoft and Adobe.
How to make accessible UVic webpages and SharePoint sites
- UCAM created a great guide to web accessibility. It includes examples and resources on how to improve your site content so it reaches a broader audience.
How to make accessible documents and emails
- teaches you how to create accessible documents, emails, and presentations using Microsoft 365.
- from Adobe Help is a comprehensive guide on making accessible PDFs.
- using the Accessibility Checker in Microsoft 365.
How to make your presentations more accessible
- teaches you how to run accessible events. It covers communications and advertising, running virtual and hybrid events, venue selection, and more.
- covers designing and creating good presentations.
How to make Microsoft Teams more accessible
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- so your participants can turn accessibility features like captions or high contrast mode.
- covers information for organizers and presenters.
Support
If you need any help with setting up an accessibility feature in Microsoft 365 or have questions about creating accessible content, please contact the Computer Help Desk.