Overview
This article is for university faculty, staff, and students to create and share accessible graphics and images. It explains why graphics and image-based content may pose accessibility challenges and provides best practices and how-to documentation to help graphics and images meet digital accessibility standards.
Making Graphics and Images Accessible
It is required that all digital content meets digital accessibility standards. Graphics and images can pose accessibility challenges because they rely heavily on visual perception. If graphics and images are not made accessible, these elements create barriers to understanding and usability. Ensuring accessibility for graphics and images supports all users.
Best Practices
- Include descriptive alt text.
- Text embedded in images isn’t readable by screen readers.
- Limit the use of images with embedded text and instead provide actual live text on the page, document, or post.
- Don’t place text over busy backgrounds; maintain strong contrast for clarity.
- Ensure that any text shown in the image is also available in an accessible format.
- Provide detailed descriptions for charts, infographics, and other key visuals.
- Don't rely on graphics alone. If using flyers or infographics, provide a full text equivalent of the content and include essential information like dates, times, and locations in captions or surrounding text.
- Ensure appropriate color contrast; at least 4.5:1 for normal text and images of text and at least 3:1 for large text (18pt or 14pt bold).
- Don’t rely on color alone to convey meaning. Use labels, icons, or patterns to support understanding.
- Choose clear, legible fonts and avoid overly decorative typefaces.
- Ensure text is large enough to read easily across devices (16-18 point font).
- Make sure visual content follows a logical reading order and keep layouts clean and uncluttered.
- Avoid flashing elements or rapidly changing animations.
- Always refer to the Brand Hub for university brand standards.
- Always run built-in accessibility checkers and perform manual testing before sharing.
Graphic Design Tools
Adobe Creative Cloud is the recommended tool available for all employees, which includes professional graphic design tools like Adobe Express, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and more. Note, some Adobe tools can be complex and may require extra time and planning to use effectively. Request an Adobe account from IT Solutions.
For an easy-to-use tool, Adobe Express is recommended over other apps like Canva. However, keep in mind that both Adobe Express and Canva have accessibility limitations and should be used carefully.
More Resources
Still Need Help?
Creative Production offers help with document formatting, design, and redesign if needed. Please note, Creative Production cannot ensure accessibility for content created by other users. They may need to re-create a document to ensure accessibly, if you choose to use their services. Costs apply. Submit a ticket to request Creative Production services