Microsoft Enhances PowerPoint for Mac with Reading Order Pane
In a significant move to boost accessibility, Microsoft has introduced the Reading Order Pane to its PowerPoint application for macOS. This new feature is currently being rolled out to users participating in the Beta channel who are operating version 16.98 (Build 25050901) or newer.
Improving Accessibility in Presentations
The Reading Order Pane, which has already been available to Windows users, enhances the usability of PowerPoint presentations for individuals who depend on screen readers. By allowing users to specify the sequence in which content is presented, it ensures that important information is conveyed accurately.
The Importance of Logical Reading Order
For users with visual impairments, screen readers can sometimes read content in an unexpected order, leading to confusion or misinterpretation of the message. The Reading Order Pane empowers users to visualize and adjust the reading flow of their slides, facilitating a clearer understanding of the presented material. Microsoft highlighted that providing a logical sequence is critical, stating that misreading can lead to missing key points or receiving inaccurate information.
A New Feature for Global Accessibility Awareness Day
This recent update also coincides with Global Accessibility Awareness Day, which underscores Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility features. In addition to the Reading Order Pane, PowerPoint for Mac users now have the capability to generate captions through advanced speech recognition technology.
How to Access the Reading Order Pane
Users can access the Reading Order Pane for both new and existing presentations via the ‘Review’ tab. Simply click the drop-down menu adjacent to the ‘Check Accessibility’ feature to locate the ‘Reading Order Pane.’
Utilizing the Reading Order Pane
This powerful accessibility tool enables several actions to optimize presentation content:
- Group objects by holding the Command key and selecting the items, then press Command + Option + G to save.
- Exclude items from the reading order by unchecking them or add alt text by clicking the Edit button next to each item.
- To enhance understanding, sort the reading order by dragging and dropping items as needed.
Ensuring Comprehensive Alt Text
Alt text, which is read aloud by screen readers, plays an essential role in conveying information about visual elements. Users will receive alerts for items lacking alt text, prompting necessary adjustments to improve accessibility.
Final Adjustments for Optimal Presentation
PowerPoint’s Accessibility Assistant can help identify slides with potentially poor reading orders, although users are encouraged to apply their judgment regarding the final arrangement. It’s also important to note that altering the reading order of overlapping objects may change their visual presentation, so it’s advisable to revert any changes that affect the overall layout unfavorably.
For more details on this feature and its capabilities, you can visit Microsoft’s official page here.
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