Accessibility: Zoom and Teams
Zoom and Microsoft Teams are widely used for meetings, trainings and webinars across campus. Using their built-in accessibility tools ensures that everyone — whether attending live or viewing a recording later — can fully participate. Accessibility settings in these platforms support captioning, keyboard navigation, screen readers and engagement for all participants.
Use Zoom or Teams when hosting virtual or hybrid meetings, online trainings or webinars. Both platforms include robust accessibility features, but the best choice often depends on the type of event, the audience and your need for captions, transcripts or breakout rooms.
Set up your meetings or events with accessibility features turned on from the start.
- Review your platform’s accessibility settings before scheduling a meeting.
- Enable live captions and recording options in advance.
- Provide links and materials in accessible formats.
- Test your setup to confirm screen reader compatibility, caption visibility and keyboard navigation.
Zoom and Teams Accessibility Features
Both Zoom and Microsoft Teams include built-in tools that make meetings, trainings and webinars more accessible. While each platform uses slightly different terminology, the core accessibility features work in similar ways.
Key Accessibility Features
- Live captions and transcripts: Both platforms offer auto-generated captions and transcripts that can be saved and edited for accuracy. Assign a professional captioner for high-stakes or public events.
- Screen reader support: Compatible with JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver and Narrator to ensure full navigation and participation.
- Keyboard navigation: Hosts and participants can navigate, chat and share screens without a mouse.
- Recording accessibility: Recordings can include captions and transcripts — review them before sharing.
- Visual adjustments: Use static or simple backgrounds to reduce distraction and support participants with sensory sensitivities.
- Customization tools: Features like Teams’ Immersive Reader or Zoom’s video-pinning options allow users to personalize their view and focus on interpreters or key speakers.