Berkeley Lab

Tips for More Accessible Meetings

A hybrid work environment presents many challenges; one of the most frequent is preparing for meetings, specifically making meetings accessible for all participants. If you are planning a meeting – hybrid or onsite – Berkeley Lab’s IDEA Office has some tips for making the meeting accessible to all attendees.

A hybrid work environment presents many challenges; one of the most frequent is preparing for meetings, specifically making meetings accessible for all participants.

“Making meetings accessible demonstrates how the Lab is a welcoming and inclusive environment,” said IDEA Program Manager Kelly Perce.  “When planning a meeting, it is good practice to view the event through an accessibility lens.”

The Lab’s IDEA Office has put together a helpful guide on planning accessible meetings, including suggestions such as supplying maps to ADA parking spaces, all-gender restrooms, and lactation rooms. Other tips to consider are dietary restrictions, how to use closed captions and general resources that help make a meeting a success.

“Thinking of how to make participation possible for everyone allows people to concentrate on engaging with their colleagues and exchanging of information,” said Perce.

You can download your copy of  Improving Accessibility at In Person and Hybrid Meetings & Events.

The original article ran in Elements on February 21, 2024.