AMI receives prestigious FCC Chairman’s Award for Advancement in Accessibility

Accessible Media Inc. (AMI) announced today that it has been declared a winner of the Annual Chairman’s Award for Advancement in Accessibility for its Integrated Described Video technique, as presented by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. This is AMI’s second Chairman’s award having won previously in 2012 for its Described Video Guide. 

The Chairman’s Award for Advancement in Accessibility launched in 2010 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The award is an FCC project coordinated by the Commission’s Accessibility and Innovation Initiative that recognizes outstanding, innovative products, services, technologies or practices introduced to the public that were specifically designed to advance accessibility for people with disabilities. 

AMI submitted its Best Practices Guide for innovation in Described Video (audio description) known as Integrated Described Video (IDV). IDV modernizes traditional description practices by integrating the description directly into the production itself. The result is a seamless, inclusive experience for the audience which eliminates the need for a secondary audio track containing the descriptions.

“AMI continues to seek effective, ground-breaking ways to increase broadcast and digital media accessibility,” explains Chris O’Brien, AMI’s Accessibility Officer. “Obtaining recognition from an organization such as the FCC, who continue to display their commitment to accessibility through the Disability Advisory Committee and various other initiatives, further legitimizes our efforts.” 

Chris O’Brien accepted the award at a ceremony held at the M-enabling conference in Arlington, VA last night.