Collaboration apps like Blink are at the heart of modern work, so it's essential that everyone on your team can participate. Clear, inclusive, and accessible communication ensures that no one is left out.
Here are six simple ways to make your communication in Blink more accessible for everyone.
1. Structure your content with headings
Headings act as an outline for your content, making it easy to scan and navigate. Think of them like chapters in a book, introducing new sections and subsections. They also help people using assistive technology to understand your content.
For example, when using Blink’s built-in formatting tools, use headings to organize your message and break up long blocks of text.
2. Describe your images
Images named “screenshot.png” or “IMG_1234” don’t provide context for everyone. By adding a short description when you upload an image, you can help colleagues using assistive technology understand what you're sharing.
How to do it:
Upload your image to Blink.
Click on the ··· menu in the top-right corner of each image and select "Alt text"
In the next window, write your alternative text for this image. If you're not sure what to write, this website has a decision tree exercise that will help you form the perfect alternative text.
3. Share links with context
A long URL or a vague "Click here" doesn’t tell colleagues what to expect. Instead, use descriptive text and let people know where the link goes.
Best practices:
Use linked text like "Complete the Blink feedback form" instead of "Click here."
Mention the outcome, such as "(opens in a new tab)" or "(downloads a file)."
Embed links in the actual descriptive words.
4. Avoid using emoji as formatting tools
Screen readers read emoji one by one, which can be distracting when they're used as dividers or bullet points. Keep emoji for personality and context, not for layout.
Instead:
Use Blink’s formatting tools (headings, bullet points, numbered lists).
Keep emoji for personality and context, not for layout.
5. Use lists to organise information
Lists help break up long sentences and make information easy to read and scan. When screen readers come to a list, they’ll announce how many items are in it, which helps users understand the information.
For example, instead of writing one long sentence, like this "To request a team uniform, you must be a full-time employee with at least three months of service, have completed the required uniform training module, and get approval from your shift supervisor." Organise the information in a list.
To request a team uniform, you must:
Be a full-time employee with at least three months of service.
Have completed the required uniform training module.
Get approval from your shift supervisor.
6. Pause before you post
To make your collaboration more accessible, remember to:
Provide context by adding descriptions for images, GIFs, and videos.
Be clear by explaining what happens when someone clicks a link.
Pause before you post. If your message were read aloud without visuals, would it make sense?
By making your communication inclusive, you can help your team work better together.