#  Autoplaying Hero Background Videos in Digital Design 

 





Autoplaying background videos in hero components have gained popularity in modern web design. Recognizing the need to learn more about this trend in relation to the HarvardSites Design System, the design system team embarked on an investigation to understand its broader implications, particularly regarding accessibility and usability.



 

February 24, 2025

 

 

 [ Laurier Cress ](https://www.lauriercress.com/) 

- [ Insights ](/news-categories/insights)
 
 

 

     ![Mockup of hero component](/sites/g/files/omnuum631/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/2025-05/DS_Hero_video_Mockup_0.png?itok=z0yXgx9B) 

 



 

## Understanding the Impact of Autoplaying Background Videos on Accessibility and Usability

The HarvardSites Design System emphasizes the importance of adhering to accessibility standards, such as the [Web Content Accessibility Guidelines](https://www.w3.org/WAI/standards-guidelines/wcag/) (WCAG) and Harvard University’s own [Digital Accessibility Policy](https://accessibility.huit.harvard.edu/digital-accessibility-policy), and so it was important for the design system team to understand the impact autoplaying background hero videos would have on accessibility and usability.

The research we conducted as part of this investigation has become essential in shaping the standards and guidelines of the HarvardSites Design System, ensuring that they align with best practices for inclusive and user-centered design. The design system team drafted a report that examines the implications of incorporating autoplaying background video in hero components. From our research, we found that autoplaying background videos can be disruptive and even harmful to users with disabilities such as photosensitive epilepsy or vestibular disorders. Site visitors can experience severe health consequences from unexpected motion and flashing lights. Guided by the ethical principle of avoiding harm, we have integrated “Restricted Motion” standards into the HarvardSites Design System. This includes prohibiting autoplaying videos in hero components to ensure user safety and accessibility.

In our report, we explore how autoplaying background videos affect accessibility, user experience, engagement, site performance, and the potential risks of violating accessibility guidelines.



 

 

 

##  Check out the full report 

 



 [ Read the full report arrow\_circle\_right ](https://app.condens.io/shared/IW0Iga/aB41sk2yqOTO4pX2BziIs) 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Accessibility ](/insights-categories/accessibility)
- [ Hero Components ](/insights-topics/hero-components)