Accessible by Design
Accessible publishing is primarily about enriching content with additional features, such as image descriptions and metadata, so that publications are readable (accessible) for everyone. For Crius Group, this also involves a design element, or how we can integrate accessibility into a book's design from the very beginning. Hence the title and slogan, 'Accessible by Design'.
Inne Engels
The impact of the European Accessibility Act (EAA)
The production of accessible ePubs is a standard topic these days in my conversations with publishers. We've been working on this for quite some time, of course, as the arrival of the new ePub format was known long before the European Accessibility Act (EAA) came into effect. By delving into this, we help publishers with practical solutions to meet accessibility requirements.
The many facets of an accessible ePub
Yet, most parties seemed to be ready for the new Accessibility Act just in time. That may sound strange, but it isn't. Creating an accessible ePub involves many aspects. Think of the layout of the book itself, but also, of course, the (ONIX) metadata required to get the book into the retail and distribution chain. Moreover, the division of roles is also important: what additional tasks does this entail for the editorial team? Once this is clear, how do you ensure everyone is doing the right things? And what do you expect from a supplier? Is it the typesetter who does everything? Do you first finish the entire print file and then create the ePub? And how do you handle that metadata?
'Design' at Crius Group: more than just typesetting
That's where the concept of 'design' comes into play at Crius Group. We certainly employ a lot of DTP specialists, but 'design' also means something else to us. We always approach everything process-oriented and focus on consistent workflows that ensure efficient processes and high-quality products. Sound abstract? The best example is our Core tool, which we've been successfully supporting publishers with for years. The secret? Automate where possible and manually work where necessary to guarantee quality.
Accessible books initiative
Our existing clients who already work with Core are familiar with our approach and already have us create accessible ePubs. In many cases, these are trade books from publishers with many books and pages who have adapted their workflow to Core. In addition, we are now launching a new initiative.
We will make it relatively simple and efficient for everyone to create (trade) books with us. Whether it's print, accessible ePubs, or both: we support the entire chain, including ONIX metadata.
Returning to the title, 'Accessible by Design', this means multiple things for us. It's important to consider accessibility from the start when designing a book. A clear process with logical steps, utilizing the right tools and software available. Crius Group can help with this.
In the coming period, I'll tell you more about the new 'products' we're launching. So be sure to keep an eye on our social media channels and website!
Webinar 'Accessible by design'
On Thursday, October 2nd, we're hosting another webinar on this topic. Want to learn more about how Crius Group approaches creating accessible ePubs? Register now!
Want to know more?
In the meantime, if you have any questions or would like to learn more about our services or creating accessible ePubs, please feel free to contact me or stop by for a sneak preview and/or to catch up at the Frankfurter Buchmesse (October 14-19).
