• Ensure your presentation is accessible (whether Powerpoint or Word Document or PDF)
• Verbally describe visual materials to the audience such as slides, charts, etc for guests in the audience who may have low vision.
• Videos used during the presentation should be captioned in advance for guests who may be deaf or hard of hearing. If the video is not captioned, sign language interpreters or real-time captionists may be needed for access to video content of the event.
• If requested, print and/or digital materials should be made available in alternative formats. (For example, someone who is blind or has low vision may request an audio file, Braille, large print, etc.)
• Post printed materials electronically, if possible, for reference after the event.

• Control background noise to the greatest extent possible.
• Microphones should be used by all speakers and attendees. 
• Repeat questions posted by the audience before responding, especially if there is not a roving microphone available. Presenters or audience members may express confidence that they are loud enough and do not need a microphone. Regardless, ask them to speak into one to ensure accessibility.

Handheld Microphones

• Many people tend to get quieter when talking into a microphone. Maintain a full, normal speaking voice when using a microphone.

• Hold the microphone no closer than the width of two fingers (about two inches) away from the mouth. The microphone is designed to capture a voice that flows over or across it, not into it, so if used too close to the mouth, the microphone will amplify every breath, click and hiss of words said.

• Conversely, keeping the mic too far away from the mouth will result in not being heard. Keep the microphone no further away than the width of your hand (about 6 inches).

• Hold the microphone at a 45 degree angle for perfect placement. Holding it too low will result in being unheard, while holding it too close may block the face.

Lapel Microphones

• Lavaliere, or “lapel” microphones, work best when clipped to clothing and placed 8 to 10 inches below the chin - ideally, in the center. If presenting and using a PowerPoint, fasten the mic slightly towards the side where the slides will be shown, since presenters will be looking at the slides from time to time while speaking. If the mic is placed too high, it will create hot and cold spots when the head is turned. One good rule of thumb is to imagine a shape of the letter "V" coming up from microphone. Speaking within this “V” area should be heard clearly.

• Make sure buttons, material, jewelry, and strands of hair are well out of the way. Remember that each small rustle will be amplified and transmitted with movement.

The primary types of effective communication access includes the use of:

• Sign Language Interpreters
  • Provide reserved seating in the front of the event for the participant who has requested sign language interpretation. 
  • Sign language interpreters should be situated in the front of the room proximate to the speaker and within the sight line of the Deaf attendee so that both the interpreter and speaker can be viewed simultaneously.
  • A spotlight should be on the interpreter if the lighting in the room is dimmed.
  • Provide an advance copy of presentation materials so that the interpreter will be well prepared to sign any specialized vocabulary and names.
• Communication Access in Real Time (CART)
  • CART reporters will require some space for equipment set-up.
  • Reporters using projection equipment should be situated in close proximity to the projection unit.
  • Provide an advance copy of presentation materials to the CART reporter to prepare him/her for any specialized vocabulary and names used in presentation.
• Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs):
  • If ALDs will be used during the event, the speaker must use the transmitter and the listener must use the receiver.
  • Test ALDs in advance of the event.

• Clearly indicate allergens and gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or other options on any food served.

• Under the ADA, organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed to go. Therefore, Service Animals accompanying visitors to campus are permitted access and visitors do not have to formally notify the campus of the animal’s presence.