Suppliers

It is strongly recommended you make use of a multiple format supplier familiar with industry standards rather than trying to produce formats on your own.

The exception here is the e-text master which can be produced internally or by the same contractors developing the publication. (Note that in the case of described video, the supplier may have to make changes to the e-text file because providing text explanations for video is considered a specialized field of writing).

You will find a number of multiple format suppliers on the Industry Canada Strategis Web site.

Browse the categories to find the suppliers you require.

Your institution's procurement office may also have a list of multiple format suppliers in your local area. Also consult the appendix that accompanies the Guide to Multiple Formats.

When contracting suppliers, follow the Government of Canada Contracting Policy.

Points to keep in mind:

Multiple format suppliers, like everyone else, are not immune to making mistakes. It's a good idea to obtain references before hiring a supplier. Also, keep track of any comments from users of your multiple formats. If you receive complaints about the quality of work, avoid repeated use of that supplier.

You can hire independent reviewers to check the work of suppliers.

You can also add a disclaimer to multiple formats, stating that "Any errors that appear in this product also appear in the original version."

Original Product Suppliers:

If you use contractors to develop the original product, you should have them provide an accompanying e-text master. Consider making this additional step part of any publication contract.

Suggested contract wording:

"The contractor will also supply an e-text version of the product in which all visuals, multi-media components and other relevant non-text items are explained in text. This file will be used to help meet multiple format requests and to facilitate Web posting that meets requirements of Common Look and Feel. The file is to be delivered in ASCII (DOS) in a single column using courier 10 point text. For more information, the contractor is advised to consult the Full-Text Template section of the Manager's Guide to Multiple Formats."

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