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Accessible events matter

Events — both in person and virtual — can be challenging for people with disabilities. By prioritizing accessibility in early event planning stages, we can all help break down these barriers.

Wondering how to make an event accessible? Take a look at our guide below on how to get started.

Four people present at a Salesforce conference while the audience listens.

1. Use people-first language

Refer to the person first, disability second. For example, "a guest with a disability" versus "a disabled guest."

But remember, a person's disability is private information. Unless they've given you permission, don't disclose their disability to anyone. Stick to simply sharing information about their accommodation.

Learn about people-first language
Astro and Zig mascots together at an event.

2. Collect requests for accommodations and adjustments at registration

An accommodation (or "adjustment" in some regions) is assistance that allows a person to fully participate successfully with dignity.

An effective way to make your event accessible is to collect requests for accommodations at registration. This allows you to plan for and provide support like sign language interpreters, reserved parking, or sighted guides.

See examples of event accommodations
Two people talk during Dreamforce.

3. Take "invisible disabilities" into account

Just because you can't see a disability doesn't mean it's not there. These "invisible disabilities" like autism, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or dyslexia (difficulty reading), can significantly impact how neurodiverse individuals engage with event content — but it doesn't mean people with disabilities cannot participate.

To be inclusive, remember to be kind and open, use simple language, and provide multisensory content that fits various learning styles (like long and detailed vs. short and concise).

Find insight into neurodiversity
A sign language interpreter at Dreamforce.

4. Make sure virtual events meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

WCAG is the gold standard for accessibility guidelines. It's an internationally recognized set of testable criteria to measure accessibility against.

For more on accessible virtual events, complete the "Get Started with Web Accessibility" trail on our online learning platform, Trailhead.

Take the trail

How to support communities and individuals through accessible events

  • Make content compatible with screen readers (software that allows users to read text on the screen with a speech synthesizer or braille display).
  • Provide alternatives for non-text content so it can be changed into other forms, such as large print, braille, speech, symbols, or simpler language.
  • Use image descriptions and alt text to describe relevant images.
  • Offer sighted escorts, trained volunteers to help guide guests to a specific area of an event or building.
  • Create high-contrast signage, which makes it easier for users to see content.

  • Create captioning or subtitles for all media (including videos, audio clips, and presentations). Use a human captioner for live and remote events.
  • Proactively hire a sign language interpreter for live events. For virtual events, use Virtual Relay Interpreting (VRI).
  • Use accessible streaming services — including Google Meet, Google Livestream, Zoom, and WebEx. Zoom even allows a human captioner.
  • Offer assistive listening devices. These are amplifiers that bring sound directly into the ear.
  • Use a note taker to record highlights and action items.
  • Reserve front-row seats for lip-reading.

  • Use low-height counters at the welcome desk, registration areas, displays, and snack stations.
  • Reserve seating for those who use mobility devices.
  • Make paths and entryways attainable with smooth terrain, stage access for speakers, and elevators.
  • Ensure restrooms are accessible with grab bars, wide stalls, and low-height sinks.
  • Designate a rest area for service animals.
  • Provide wheelchair-friendly travel accommodations and routes.

  • Share maps ahead of the event, and be sure to include quiet rooms.
  • Manage crowd control with clear wayfinding signage and guidance.
  • Consider hosting a petting zoo for animal-assisted therapy.

Remember, just because two people are in the same disability community doesn’t mean they need the same types of support.
Speak directly with individuals to determine what would be most helpful for them.

Four Salesforce employees at the Disability Help Desk during Dreamforce hold signs for accessible seating and accessibility support.

Championing disability inclusion at Salesforce

Every year, Salesforce makes strides to become more inclusive at our annual conference, Dreamforce. Learn about the exciting accessibility experiences we offered at Dreamforce.

Read the blog