Alternative formats
What alternative formats does Ally generate?
What alternative formats does Ally generate?
Ally provides alternative formats for these content types:
- PDF files (custom encoded fonts are not supported)
- Microsoft® Word files
- Microsoft® Powerpoint® files
- OpenOffice/LibreOffice files
- Uploaded HTML files
- Content created in the LMS course editor (WYSIWYG)
Alternative formats for WYSIWYG content is currently only available for Blackboard Learn Ultra, Blackboard Learn Original, Instructure Canvas, D2L Brightspace, and Schoology.
These alternative formats can be generated:
- OCR’d version (for scanned documents)
- Tagged PDF (currently for Word, Powerpoint and OpenOffice/LibreOffice files)
- Immersive Reader (LMS only)
- Mobile-friendly HTML
- Audio
- ePub
- Electronic Braille
- BeeLine Reader
- Translated Version
- Translated Version is disabled by default. Administrators can submit a support case to have it enabled.
Are alternate formats generated when a request to download is made?
When an alternative format for a content item is requested for the first time, Ally generates the format on demand. In most cases, it generates within 1-2 minutes.
As soon as it is generated, the alternative format is downloaded. Ally then caches the result, so any additional requests for the same alternative format can be served and downloaded from the cache immediately.
Does Ally generate alternative formats for student content?
Ally currently only processes instructional content. For example, content added by someone with edit permissions in the course, such as the instructor or instructional designer. Ally currently doesn't process student content or student submissions.
Ally Braille FAQ
Which Braille code does Ally use for the Electronic Braille Format?
Ally uses Braille Ready File (.brf) as the electronic Braille format. The braille code used depends on the language the document is in. For English documents, Ally uses Grade 2 Unified English Braille (contracted).
More on Unified English Braille on the UKAAF website
Can the Ally Electronic Braille Format be printed using a Braille printer?
The Braille Ready File (.brf) format can be used for both electronic braille displays and braille embossers (printers).
You still need to check whether a specific Braille embosser/printer supports the .brf format.
More on BRF on the Accessible Instructional Materials website
Why do I see "The alternative formats for this file have been disabled"?
Instructor and administrators can turn off alternative formats for an individual content item within a course. For example, on a file uploaded to the course.
