About the ODA

Summary

The Office for Digital Accessibility (ODA) is a cross-unit virtual office which organizes and coordinates the University’s efforts to support accessible and inclusive digital experiences for all who engage with the University’s services, programs, and activities.

Why Does Digital Accessibility Matter?

Digital accessibility is the practice of designing, creating, and sharing digital content so it can be used by everyone—including people with disabilities—in an equitable manner. Following digital accessibility best practices and adhering to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 AA) helps to ensure that everyone, including disabled individuals, have equal access to webpages, software, mobile applications, documents, videos, and other electronic resources. Improving accessibility improves the user experience for everyone. 

History of Digital Accessibility at UMN

Over the past several decades, the dedicated efforts of numerous passionate individuals have propelled the University of Minnesota towards a more accessible digital landscape. The creation of the ODA formalizes, builds upon, and expands these efforts.

2002

2010

The University launches the accessibility.umn.edu site.

2016

The University launches its next iteration of accessibility.umn.edu, which is called Accessible U.

2017

2018

  • Starting in February, all uploads to the University’s Kaltura media management system receive auto-generated captions; our implementation includes a comprehensive process for editing those captions and paying for human-reviewed captions.

2019

2020

2022

The University first offers Pope Tech.

2023

The first accessibility course required for faculty and instructors at a university is launched, called Fundamentals of Disability Accommodations and Inclusive Course Design.

2024

A cross-unit virtual "Office for Digital Accessibility (ODA)" is established and the Accessible U website is renamed accordingly.