Accessibility: Creating Accessible Digital Signage

Summary

How to ensure your digital signage files are as accessible as possible, including the P.O.U.R. Principles.

Body

Summary

There are many things to consider when creating accessible digital fliers, including design, structure, and options for interaction. Using Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WGAC) and ADA Compliance principles, here is a list of items to check and resources to make it easy!

Before You Start

There are accessibility "checkers" built into some applications, such as Adobe Acrobat and the Microsoft suite. These can help you identify possible issues with the document view, including contrast and layout. However, keep in mind that accessibility tools such as alternative text and screen-reader use are not possible once on a display.

Steps 

  1. Colors

    • Make sure all text and graphics are colors that are visible against the background color(s). You can use this website to check the contrast level of two colors in your content:  WebAIM Contrast Checker
    • Do not rely on color to convey meaning, such as red to show an error. Use labels, patterns, or icons in addition to color.

  2. Text

    • Use a font that is relatively simple and easy to read. Many of the fonts built into Microsoft tools, Adobe, and Canva are appropriate, and GCC-Official fonts are "Museo" and "Futura". Avoid script fonts and styles that create ambiguity between characters (such as I vs. l vs. 1 ).
    • Use a font size of at least 20 pt. - Larger is better!
    • Use text descriptions or captions for complex images.

  3. Consider Interaction

    • An easy way to combine additional accessibility and interaction for everyone is with a QR code!

      You can use this for any helpful addition, such as:
      1. On any website or OneDrive document opened in Google Chrome, click the three dots just under the X, then "Save and Share", and then "Create QR Code".
      2. This will generate a picture that you can copy/paste or download and insert into your digital signage file.
      3. Anyone can then use their phone's camera to scan this code and follow the link without having to manually copy it down!

        A screenshot of Google Chrome's menu, highlighting the steps just described to create a QR Code.
      • Meeting Link/Registration with Details
      • Contact Information
      • Text-Only or Screen Reader-Friendly version of the document
      • More Details on the Event or Service advertised

  4. Review using WCAG's POUR Principles

    1. P - Perceivable: Content is presented in a way that the audience can perceive.
    2. O - Operable: The audience can use and navigate any interactive content
    3. U - Understandable: Content is clear and easy to understand
    4. R - Robust: Content is compatible with current tools for accessibility

 

Additional Resources