Integrated Described Video (IDV) is a growing trend in media accessibility, and the most frequent question that we receive these days is “how is IDV different from traditional DV”?
Quite simply, integrated described video is built into the production from the ground up. It provides a description where the key visual elements are incorporated directly into the original production, and it removes the need to add a separate described video track post-production.
Artist Kelly Wray, via AMI’s YouTube Channel, provides an excellent example of how DV and IDV are different:
“Show me your art” – Described Video version
“Show me your art” – Integrated Described Video version
In summary, here are the key characteristics of described video (aka audio description) vs integrated described video to remember.
| Described video: – Key visual elements are narrated as part of a separate track; – Blind/partially sighted audience gets a different experience as sighted viewers; – Applied post-production; – Altered delivery format. | Integrated described video: – Key visual elements are described as part of the original production; – Blind/partially sighted audience hears same story as sighted viewers; – No separate narration track required; – One delivery format. |
Also, when executing traditional DV, script writing and narration are the primary roles that are required. In comparison, IDV is baked into most facets of the production: script writing, narration, hosts, reporters, guests, translations, sound effects, background noise, music, lyrics, and the space between all of the above.
If your company is looking to weave Integrated Described Video directly into your production, we now provide custom expert training. Contact us to discuss your needs.
