The MYAP included the following objectives under the Information and Communication theme:
- Identify the most commonly required communication formats and develop a strategy to meet those needs.
- Develop a sustainable strategy to ensure consistency across all publicly facing websites including open and online learning platforms.
C1. Alternate communication formats
Status: somewhat complete
Progress: on track
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the way the University communicates with our community has drastically changed. As with most of the world, most of our communication channels pivoted to a digital format, whether that be providing information, receiving feedback or hosting sessions. Thankfully, with the University’s launch of Microsoft Office 365 to all University owned computers, current staff, faculty, and students could access a platform that provides various built-in accessibility features to ensure our digital platform can 
service all individuals. Faculty, students, and staff were also able to download this software suite for up to 5 personal devices, free of charge. This includes autocaptioning of speech in the virtual meeting platform TEAMS, subtitle functionality in presentation mode for PowerPoint, and alternate text suggestions for use of images. Furthermore, internal training was made available to all employees on use of Office 365 features to ensure content creators understood the tools that were available to them in creating accessible information.
Over the next year, the University will be developing a central process in sourcing third-party provider services to deliver alternate communication formats that we may not be able to complete in-house (see objective G1 – Resource Guide for Procurement). A centralized process will ensure consistent quality of communication across the University and delivery of service in a timely manner.
C2. Website accessibility
Status: somewhat complete
Progress: on track
The Information Systems and Technology (IST) team remains on track in updating Waterloo’s web content management system, WCMS 3, with a planned project completion date of November 2022. This new system is designed to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA standard. Upgrades are anticipated to address some historically difficult areas such as math equations, timeline presentation, and more. It is anticipated that with the launch of WCMS 3, the remaining sites hosted outside of the WCMS will be in a better position to migrate over, which will ensure all our publicly-facing websites meet WCAG 2.0 Level AA standards. Following successful migration, an awareness campaign specifically related to accessible web content will be launched in 2022 for all digital content creators. This campaign will include resources such as tip sheets, in-house training, and technical support available through the WCMS Training and Support team.
