Fostering inclusive innovation with Shared Services Canada

Shared Services Canada (SSC) is on a mission to break down workplace barriers and foster an inclusive environment where Government of Canada (GC) workers can thrive. When GC workers have the right tools, they’re better equipped to deliver the programs and services Canadians depend on.

As a dedicated service provider, SSC is mandated to provide accessible digital services and tools. We continue improving accessibility for GC employees using adaptive technology. This includes enhancing the accessibility of the suite of Microsoft 365 (M365) products used regularly by GC workers.

Enhancing user experience

SSC conducts extensive usability testing with other GC departments. In addition to ensuring compliance with the Accessible Canada Act, testing also focuses on making sure M365 products and tools comply with the Official Languages Act.

If a GC department identifies an accessibility or official languages issue, SSC provides end-to-end support. Depending on the level of complexity, we collaborate with various Microsoft teams, troubleshooting and testing until the issue is successfully resolved.

Removing barriers: Enhancing accessibility in MS Teams

Not long ago, SSC tackled an accessibility barrier in MS Teams meetings, making a big difference for people with hearing disabilities. Initially, users struggled to see the sign language interpreter’s window while viewing PowerPoint presentations in large meetings. The interpreter’s window was too small, and there wasn’t enough space for live captions. This caused the captions to scroll quickly, making it hard for participants to read presentations, follow captions and watch the interpreter.

SSC, in collaboration with Microsoft, addressed the issue so that users across the GC can now:

• use the pop-out feature to move the presentation to a separate window
• resize and reposition the live captions box according to their preferences
• customize fonts (size, color and increase or decrease the number of lines) for better readability

“Working on accessibility and official language issues with SSC has been very helpful. They supported me and included me throughout the process. It’s nice to feel valued.”

These improvements ensure GC workers have a common digital experience, allowing everyone to fully engage and contribute in their official language. By fostering inclusion, SSC enables GC workers of all abilities to participate equally.

SSC’s efforts have a far-reaching impact and are felt beyond the government’s doorstep. Microsoft has deployed solutions born from SSC’s innovation—like live captioning—to users across Canada and around the world.

As National AccessAbility Week unfolds, let’s celebrate the ongoing efforts of organizations, including SSC, that champion accessibility, inclusion and diversity in our workplaces and communities. Together, we can build a more accessible and equitable future for all, leaving no one behind.

Visit the Digital Accessibility Toolkit page to learn more about accessibility resources and tools in the GC.

Related links

• Accessible Canada Act
• Official Languages Act