Accessible Design Tactics for PowerPoint

The Accessibility Checker in PowerPoint is a great starting point—but it only scratches the surface of what makes a presentation truly inclusive. In this session, we’ll explore real-world accessibility challenges like flattened graphics, non-editable charts, and hard-to-read layouts. You’ll learn how to spot barriers that the checker can’t catch, how to use the tools PowerPoint does offer more effectively, and how to make smart, audience-focused design decisions when you’re working with less-than-ideal content. Whether you’re cleaning up someone else’s slides or trying to improve your own, youll walk away with practical techniques, a clear understanding of the checker’s capabilities, and the confidence to make better design choices that serve everyone.

Key Takeaways:

• What the PowerPoint Accessibility Checker does well—and where it falls short
• Workarounds for inaccessible elements like image-based charts and graphic-heavy layouts
• Tips for using built-in tools (like the Selection Pane, reading order view, and alt text fields) to troubleshoot and improve accessibility
• How to evaluate and improve templates and externally designed slides without losing brand fidelity
• Downloadable “Accessibility Rescue Kit” with checklists, common fixes, and alt text guidance