Make Your Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides More Accessible with Grackle Workspace

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Accessibility, How-tos, Universal Design for Learning

GrackleDocs logo

As of July 24, 2024, Grackle Workspace (referred to henceforth simply as “Grackle”), a tool to enhance digital accessibility within Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, is available within the UChicago Google Workspace. Those with access to UChicago’s Google Workspace – all University faculty/instructors, students, and staff, with the exception of Chicago Booth and the Lab School – can use Grackle without any need to install add-ons. Simply open the Extensions menu within Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides and select Grackle Docs/Sheets/Slides → Launch.

Extensions menu in Google Docs with the Grackle Docs and Launch options shown

Once you launch Grackle, the tool can:

  • Run an automated accessibility check of your document
  • Break down any accessibility issues it uncovers into prioritized, manageable tasks
  • Flag issues that need to be tested with a manual check, such as reading order
  • Produce more accessible output if you export your document to another format, e.g. exporting a Google Doc as a PDF or publishing a Google Sheet as HTML

In the example below, Grackle has flagged incorrect semantic structure in a Google Doc.

Google Doc with incorrect semantic structure and GrackleDocs browser extension showing a warning about the incorrect structure

If you have questions about Grackle, or about any of the tools that UChicago offers to promote digital accessibility, the Center for Digital Accessibility (CDA) is ready to help. You can set up a consultation with the CDA by submitting their contact form or emailing digitalaccessibility@uchicago.edu. You can also stop by ATS’ office hours if you’d like to see a demonstration of Grackle in action.