What is Captioning?
Captioning is the process of displaying text representation of spoken dialogue, sound effects, and other audio cues from videos or live audio content. Captions allow deaf and hard of hearing users to access the information conveyed through audio content.
Example: A video tutorial includes on-screen text like:
[Music playing], Narrator: Welcome to our TYPO3 accessibility guide.
Captions appear in sync with the video and help users understand both speech and sounds that are essential for context.
Why Captioning is Critical in Web Accessibility
Captioning is essential to video accessibility, making multimedia content inclusive to a wide range of users. It supports:
- Deaf and hard of hearing communities
- Non-native speakers
- Users in noisy or sound-sensitive environments
- Search engine indexing, as captions improve discoverability
Captioning is a key requirement under global accessibility standards, including:
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) – Requires captions for prerecorded and live video.
- ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) – U.S. law that mandates accessible public content, including videos.
- BFSG (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz) – Germany’s law aligning with EU accessibility directives, including media content.
Without captioning, any video or audio content becomes a barrier to users who rely on visual forms of communication.
How to Implement Captioning (for TYPO3, WordPress, and More)
Whether you're a content creator, developer, or site manager using TYPO3, WordPress, or any modern CMS, here’s how to add captions effectively:
✅ Use captioning tools – Platforms like YouTube and Vimeo offer auto-captioning, but always review and correct them.
✅ Upload caption files – Use standard formats like .srt or .vtt to manually add high-quality captions.
✅ In TYPO3: Use accessible video players like Video.js or Plyr with caption track support.
✅ In WordPress: Use block editors or plugins like “Video Embed & Thumbnail Generator” that support captioning.
✅ Include sound cues – Not just speech. For example: [laughter] or [door creaks open].
Pro tip: Use closed captions (CC) which can be toggled on/off, providing flexibility for all users.
Common Mistakes & Misconceptions
Here are the pitfalls to avoid:
❌ “Subtitles and captions are the same.”
✔️ No. Subtitles translate spoken words for multilingual audiences. Captions include all sound information for accessibility.
❌ “Auto-generated captions are enough.”
✔️ They often lack accuracy, timing, or context. Always review and edit.
❌ “Only public sector websites need captions.”
✔️ False. If your business offers video content, you are responsible for making it accessible under laws like ADA and WCAG.
Explore related terms: Web Accessibility, WCAG, Assistive Technology, Transcripts
Key Takeaway
Captioning isn’t an extra—it’s essential.
It ensures digital inclusion, supports accessibility compliance, and enhances user experience for everyone. Whether you publish tutorials, webinars, or product videos, adding captions is a best practice that benefits all.
Download our Captioning Guidelines for Developers or check your media with the T3AA Accessibility Analyzer.
Make every word count—on screen, for everyone.