Transcripts are a text alternative for audio in any media containing audio. This media can be audio-only media or audio-visual media. Transcripts encapsulate all elements essential to understanding the media audio, including dialogue, non-speech sounds, and speaker identification.
Transcripts are similar to captions, except transcripts are not visually overlayed on audio-visual media nor are they synchronized with the audio content. Transcripts can be displayed as a block of text under media or with dynamic “scrolling” features as the media is played. Additionally, transcripts are used for audio-only content, such as podcasts and songs, where captions would be irrelevant. For more information on captions, please visit our captioning page.
When a transcript includes audio descriptions for audio-visual media, the result is often referred to as a “descriptive transcript,” as it contains information not only relating to the audio content but the visual content as well. For more information on audio descriptions, please visit our audio description page.
Expectations
Pre-recorded audio-only content such as podcasts, songs, or audio instruction must be accompanied by transcripts. Transcripts must capture all essential elements of the original audio including spoken dialogue, speaker identification, and any relevant non-speech sounds. Live audio content should also have a text alternative, such as a live text stream.
For pre-recorded audio-video media, a transcript should be provided (alongside captions, which are already required). If the audio-video media has audio descriptions, these visual descriptions should be combined with the captions to form a descriptive transcript.
Note: Transcripts are not needed when audio-only content is provided solely as an alternative to what is already fully available elsewhere on the same page and when the media is clearly distinguished as an alternative to this written content. This also applies to audio-video content, where transcripts are only ever recommended but not required.
Why Transcripts are Important
Transcripts provide a text-based alternative to audio-only and audio-video content.
Transcripts impact:
- Assistive technology: Screen readers and Braille displays can present transcripts to users who are blind, low vision, or deafblind.
- Transcripts allow audience members who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing to access audio-only content.
- Cognitive support: Text format can be easier to process and review for individuals with cognitive disabilities.
- Language access: English language learners can read transcripts at their own pace or translate them into another language on their own.
- Searchability and SEO: Transcripts improve media content by making it fully indexable, enhancing search engine optimization, and allowing users to easily find specific information within the content.
How To Implement
Transcripts can be provided as a link near the content OR as text provided on the same page.
Example 1: Transcript linked or available near the content
In the example below, a transcript of the audio content is provided as a link near the video.
Example 2: Transcript provided on the same page
In the example below, a transcript of the audio is provided on the same page below the video in an expandable region.
[Music]
>> (Narrator): We are the Dukes of JMU! We bleed purple, and our connections run deep.
[Music continues]
We learn and grow together. We do the work, and put intellect into action. We find our people, bask in the beauty, and make a difference in the world. We are owning the future, opening doors, being the change.
Example 3: Descriptive transcript provided on the same page
In the example below, a descriptive transcript is provided. A descriptive transcript captures not only the original spoken narration, but also the audio description narration. For more information, please visit the audio descriptions page.
[Music]
>> (Narrator): We are the Dukes of JMU! We bleed purple, and our connections run deep.
>> (Audio Descriptions): Words appear: “Sharing the bonds”, excited fans at sporting events, the JMU campus, students working with professors.
[Music continues]
>> (Narrator): We learn and grow together. We do the work, and put intellect into action.
>> (Audio Descriptions): Drone footage of campus, fireworks at football, students hiking, dancing, and wheelchair basketball.
>> (Narrator): We find our people, bask in the beauty, and make a difference in the world. We are owning the future, opening doors, being the change.
>> (Audio Descriptions): Words appear: “Being the change.” Fades to purple with a JMU logo.
WCAG Success Critera
Meeting all of the above requirements (must statements) ensures that audio content is in compliance with WCAG 2.1 (AA) as it relates to the following:
Further, meeting all of the above recommendations (should statements) ensures that audio content and audio-video content is aligned with best practices as they relate to the following: