Accessibility in Microsoft 365
Microsoft 365 is used across UC for creating documents, presentations, spreadsheets, email, and collaboration. Because Microsoft updates these tools frequently, your best source for detailed, step‑by‑step instructions is Microsoft’s own documentation. UC’s guidance adds context and points you to the most relevant resources for our environment.
Microsoft accessibility resources
Microsoft maintains central accessibility pages with the most current information about features, updates, and best practices across Microsoft 365. When you are working in any Microsoft app, these are the best places to start:
Microsoft Tools
Select the app you are using to see accessibility tips, quick checks, and links to Microsoft’s help for that tool.
- Word – accessible documents and templates
- PowerPoint – accessible slides and presentations
- Excel – accessible spreadsheets and tables
- Outlook – accessible emails and calendar invites
- Teams – accessible meetings, chat, and collaboration
Common Accessibility Features
Many accessibility practices are the same across Microsoft 365. These actions will improve accessibility in most Microsoft apps:
- Use built-in heading and text styles instead of manually changing font size and weight.
- Run the Accessibility Checker before sharing, posting, or sending a file.
- Add alt text to meaningful images, charts, icons, and other visuals.
- Keep tables simple, use header rows, and avoid complex merged cells when possible.
- Make link text descriptive rather than pasting full URLs.
- Check color contrast between text and background to ensure content is readable.
On the individual app pages, you will see how to do each of these tasks in that specific tool.