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Revolutionising Deaf Accessibility: Transform Your Website with Sign Language Translation

Revolutionising Deaf Accessibility: Transform Your Website with Sign Language Translation

Signapse

Signapse

September 20, 2024

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min read

It is a common misconception that websites are already accessible for Deaf users as they can simply read the text on the page. However, this is not the case! 

For most Deaf individuals, English (or any spoken language) is not their first language. Sign language is. This means that text-based information is not always accessible for the Deaf community. Instead, sign language translation can transform your website into a clear communication device where Deaf audiences can engage properly.

Introducing Our Sign Language Translation Website Plugin

Our innovative plugin overlay translates website content into sign language (ASL or BSL), providing a much-needed solution for Deaf users who rely on sign language as their primary mode of communication. This tool not only enhances the accessibility of websites but also fosters inclusivity and equal access to information. 

Why This Matters 

Out of over 70 million Deaf people worldwide, approximately 8 million prefer sign language as their primary language. This shows written forms of communication are not enough when it comes to websites. By translating digital content into sign language, we can bridge this communication gap and empower Deaf users to engage fully with online resources. 

How It Works 

Our website plugin acts as an overlay on your website, translating paragraphs into sign language videos that are easy to understand. This ensures that Deaf users can navigate and comprehend your content without barriers. Simply integrate our sign language translation plugin with a single line of code and watch as your website is brought to life through our Digital Signers.  

Who Benefits from Digital Accessibility?

In 2024, Google.org awarded a $1.5 million grant to the University of Surrey to develop an AI-powered sign language translation tool in collaboration with Signapse. We originally built this tool for non-profit organisations, social enterprises and schools based in the US and UK. 

Following its success, we decided to bring our website plugin to all organisations no matter what industry they are in as accessibility should have no barriers, just like communication. Whether your focus is solely on the Deaf community or you aim to create a more inclusive environment for your audience, our translation tool can help you achieve greater accessibility and strengthen communication. 

Implement Simple Sign Language Translation On Your Website 

We believe, like communication, accessibility tools should be available to all. With our website plugin, you can translate your webpages with ease. Take a look at our Website Plugin or Website Translation Pricing page for more information. 

Want to see how our sign language translation technology could look on your website?

Book a demo today! 

FAQs

What is website sign language translation?

Our website sign language translation converts written web content into sign language, displayed through our Digital Signers. It makes digital content more accessible to Deaf individuals who use sign language as their primary language. 

Is sign language the same in every country?

No, sign languages vary significantly by country. For example, British Sign Language (BSL) is very different from American Sign Language (ASL), each with their own grammar and signs. A website targeting international audiences may need to support multiple sign languages to be truly inclusive. At Signapse, we currently offer both BSL and ASL website translation with more sign language on the way! 

Is adding sign language translation a legal requirement for websites? 

In many countries, accessibility legislation such as the UK’s Equality Act 2010 or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires websites to be accessible to people with disabilities, which can include sign language support. Requirements may vary by jurisdiction and sector, so it’s advisable to consult accessibility guides such as WCAG 2.1 and local legal standards. 

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