The Accessibility of Digital Streaming Platforms in Italy for the Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics represent a globally significant event, and the ability to follow it through digital streaming platforms is crucial for many viewers. However, it is essential that these services are accessible to everyone, including users with disabilities. A recent report by our Chief Accessibility Officer, Paolo Berro, examined the accessibility of the main digital streaming platforms in Italy for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Objective of the Report The report aims to analyze the suitability of streaming platforms for users with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities, identifying existing barriers and proposing solutions for equitable access. With the increase in participation in global events, ensuring accessibility is fundamental not only for social inclusion but also for the image of the platforms themselves. Importance of Digital Accessibility Digital accessibility is crucial for promoting equitable access to online information and services, fostering social and economic inclusion. During the Olympics, platforms must implement features such as subtitles, audio descriptions, shortcut keys, and interfaces compatible with screen readers. These measures improve the user experience and strengthen the reputation of the platforms as socially responsible entities.

‍Social Aspects: Promoting Inclusion and Social Cohesion During the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, the digital accessibility of streaming platforms is not just a technical issue but a social imperative. Ensuring that all people, including those with disabilities, can easily access digital content means promoting social inclusion and the universal right to information and entertainment. This event represents an opportunity to break down the barriers that traditionally limit access to information for people with visual, auditory, motor, or cognitive disabilities. Implementing features such as subtitles, audio descriptions, and interfaces compatible with screen readers not only ensures equitable access but also values diversity and respect for all people, strengthening the social fabric through the sharing of common experiences. Platforms that actively work to improve accessibility will be perceived as socially responsible leaders, thus enhancing their reputation and creating a positive impact on society.

Economic Aspects: Market Opportunities and Competitive Advantage Digital accessibility during major events like the Olympics offers significant economic opportunities. The market for people with disabilities is growing and represents a consumer segment that is often overlooked but extremely potential. Offering accessible streaming services can not only improve the experience for users with disabilities but also increase the number of subscribers and, consequently, the revenues for platforms that invest in inclusive solutions. Moreover, companies that demonstrate attention to accessibility needs can benefit from tax incentives and funding dedicated to projects that promote inclusion. Investing in accessibility is not just a cost but a long-term investment that can lead to competitive advantages. Improving the user experience for everyone reduces assistance and support costs and opens new opportunities for commercial partnerships with organizations that support inclusion and diversity.

Technological Aspects: Innovation and Adoption of International Standards The integration of advanced technologies is fundamental to ensuring that streaming platforms are accessible to all users. The adoption of international accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), represents an essential starting point. Platforms must invest in innovative solutions that facilitate access to content, such as artificial intelligence algorithms for automatic subtitle enhancement and voice recognition systems for hands-free commands. Adaptive interfaces that automatically configure to meet the specific needs of users with motor, visual, or auditory disabilities ensure a personalized and barrier-free experience. The use of technologies such as augmented and virtual reality can offer immersive experiences for viewers, while continuous monitoring and updating of security systems ensure the protection of personal data, creating a safe and accessible online environment.

Platforms that adopt such technologies not only improve their service offerings but also demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation and inclusion.

Methodology and Results The analysis used assistive and automated tools to evaluate various platforms. The results indicate that no Italian platform is fully compliant with accessibility standards, despite many progressions being made. The main challenges include the lack of adequate subtitles and audio descriptions and the limited use of the keyboard for navigation. Discussion and Recommendations Platforms must adopt an integrated approach, involving users with disabilities in the design process to obtain useful feedback. It is necessary to implement technical solutions such as advanced algorithms for subtitles, adaptive interfaces, and voice recognition systems. Recommendations include the use of artificial intelligence for real-time subtitles, adaptive interfaces, and immersive technologies such as augmented and virtual reality.

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Investing in accessibility not only improves the experience for users with disabilities but also represents a competitive advantage that can lead to new market opportunities. Streaming platforms must overcome current barriers and implement innovative strategies to ensure equitable access for all users.

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