Videos: Add Videos

There are a number of ways to include videos in your content.  You can use a text link to link to them, use an image link, or embed the video on the page. The method to add the video is up to you; however, there are standards for each method.

General best practice is if there is a single video in one box, embed it. If there are multiple videos, create a YouTube playlist or use text or image links.

Standards

• Embedded videos

• Text link to video

• Linked video thumbnails

You may embed only YouTube videos in Springshare products. If you are using a different video hosting platform, you must link to the video.

Use the appropriate embed code when embedding YouTube videos. Do not use the default embed code from YouTube.

YouTube Embed Code

• Individual Videos

• Playlists

You can link to a video on YouTube or another cloud-based platform. If using a text link to a video, follow the link standards.

An alternative to a text link is a video dummy image, such as the ones below.  It is called a dummy image because while it replicates the look of a video player, it is actually a linked image.

The video dummy image is more noticeable than a text link, adds visual interest to the page, and the play button replicates a video player.  Most users know to click on a play button to view a video.  The image links to the video, making it seamless for the user.

Standards for video dummy images

• Video dummy images must have alt-text.  The alt-text is the only way to indicate the video title for those using screen readers.
  • Alt Text: Video: video title
• Video title is displayed above the thumbnail unless the title is clearly visible on the thumbnail image.
• Thumbnail must indicate where the video plays. For example:
  • Click to watch on YouTube
  • Watch on Adobe Connect 
• Link to transcript under video

Example

Video: Self-Knowledge Tools:  Enhance Your Competitive Edge

Transcript

Alt-text: Video: Self-Knowledge Tools: Enhance Your Competitive Edge