Accessible infographic design ensures everyone can understand and engage with your content, regardless of ability. Here’s why it matters and how to do it:
- Why It’s Important: Over 61 million Americans live with disabilities, controlling $548 billion in discretionary spending. Designing accessible visuals expands your audience and avoids legal risks like ADA lawsuits.
- Key Design Principles:
- Use high color contrast (minimum 4.5:1) and avoid relying solely on color.
- Include descriptive alt text for images and charts.
- Ensure keyboard navigation and logical content flow for screen readers.
- Best Practices:
- Use sans serif fonts (minimum size 16px).
- Organize content with clear headings and ample white space.
- Provide alternative formats like downloadable data tables.
- Compliance Standards: Follow WCAG 2.2 and ADA guidelines to meet accessibility laws and improve usability.
Accessible design isn’t just ethical – it’s smart business. Start by analyzing your audience’s needs, testing designs with tools like WAVE, and using platforms like Venngage or Adobe Illustrator for accessible workflows.
Accessible data visualizations (charts and graphs)
Pre-Design Planning
Creating accessible infographics starts with thoughtful planning to ensure they resonate with and are usable by everyone.
User Needs Analysis
Different users encounter unique challenges when engaging with visual content. Key user groups include:
- Users with visual impairments who depend on screen readers.
- Users with cognitive disabilities who benefit from straightforward layouts.
- Users with color vision deficiencies who require strong color contrasts.
- Users with motor impairments who need keyboard-friendly navigation.
To address these needs effectively:
- Conduct User Research: Collect data about your audience’s specific accessibility needs, including the assistive tools they use and obstacles they may face.
- Develop User Personas: Create detailed personas for each user group to guide your design decisions.
- Document Accessibility Requirements: Maintain a checklist of essential accessibility features based on your research findings.
Here’s a quick overview of key considerations and features for each user group:
| User Group | Key Considerations | Essential Features |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Reader Users | Content structure and flow | Semantic HTML, descriptive alt text |
| Color Blind Users | Color contrast and differentiation | High contrast ratios, multiple visual cues |
| Cognitive Disabilities | Information complexity | Clear hierarchy, simplified content |
| Motor Impairments | Navigation and interaction | Keyboard accessibility, large click targets |
Accessibility Benchmarks
Setting measurable benchmarks ensures your infographic meets both user needs and accessibility standards. Using the latest WCAG guidelines as a reference, aim for these key benchmarks:
Technical Standards:
- Ensure a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for text [4].
- Provide text alternatives for all non-text elements.
- Make interactive elements fully accessible via keyboard [2].
- Use semantic HTML to support accurate screen reader interpretation [3].
Content Requirements:
- Write in clear, straightforward language, avoiding unnecessary jargon [5].
- Organize information in a logical and easy-to-follow structure.
- Include alternative text for complex visuals.
- Offer downloadable data tables as an additional resource [2].
When planning, document these critical accessibility details:
- The target WCAG compliance level (A, AA, or AAA).
- A list of required accessibility features and functionalities.
- Testing methods and success criteria.
- Guidelines for providing alternative formats.
With these foundations in place, you’re ready to move on to designing the core elements that bring your infographic to life.
Core Design Elements
Color and Contrast
When designing accessible infographics, color and contrast are more than just aesthetic choices – they directly impact usability. With over 360 million people worldwide living with colorblindness[6], selecting colors thoughtfully is essential for creating inclusive designs.
Here’s what you need to know about contrast:
- Normal text should have a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1.
- Large text (18pt or 14pt bold) requires at least a 3:1 contrast ratio.
- Many government websites go further, often adhering to a 7:1 contrast ratio for normal text[6].
Certain color pairings can be especially challenging for those with color vision deficiencies. Avoid combinations like:
- Red and green
- Green and brown
- Blue and gray
- Blue and purple
- Green and black[6]
Another critical point: don’t rely on color alone to convey information. Supplement colors with patterns, icons, or text labels to ensure your message is clear for everyone, including users with color vision challenges[7].
Font Selection
Typography significantly influences how accessible your infographic is. Sans serif fonts are generally easier to read, especially for individuals with visual impairments or dyslexia[8]. Fonts like OpenDyslexic, specifically designed for dyslexic readers, can further enhance legibility.
Here are some key font guidelines:
| Aspect | Requirement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Size | 16px (recommended) | Ensures readability across devices |
| Font Types | Maximum of 2 | Keeps the design visually consistent |
| Style | Sans serif preferred | Improves readability and accessibility |
| Emphasis | Use bold, italic, or underline | Highlights key information |
“The number of disabled users who are cut off from using the Internet fully is enormous. They are far too many to dismiss as marginal and irrelevant.”
– Shir Ekerling, CEO of accessiBe[4]
Content Structure
A clear and logical structure is the backbone of any accessible infographic. In February 2025, Butler University’s Information Commons demonstrated this by creating an accessible version of their iOS Scanning Apps Infographic. They used proper heading hierarchies and well-organized content to improve usability[9].
For effective content structure:
- Use consistent heading styles to establish a clear visual hierarchy.
- Add descriptive data labels to simplify information at a glance.
- Include ample white space to reduce visual clutter and cognitive load.
- Design a straightforward layout that naturally guides the viewer’s eye[1].
Since more than 90% of visually impaired users depend on screen readers, structuring your content logically ensures that everyone – regardless of ability – can access and understand the information[4].
Next, explore the Technical Requirements section to refine your infographic design further.
Technical Requirements
Once the core design elements are in place, refining the technical details ensures your content is fully accessible to all users.
Alt Text Guidelines
Alt text should strike a balance between brevity and detail, typically using a description of 125 characters or fewer, paired with a more detailed explanation if needed [10].
Here’s a quick guide to structuring effective alt text:
| Element | Requirement | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Short Description | ≤125 characters | “Infographic showing program advisor distribution and student coverage” |
| Layout Description | Explain spatial relationships | Describe element positions and the flow of information |
| Data Points | Highlight key statistics | Include numbers, percentages, or trends |
| Context | State purpose or function | Convey the main message or goal of the visualization |
A great example comes from the University of South Carolina. Their advisor mapping infographic uses concise alt text: “Infographic mapping types of program advisors to students they advise.” This is followed by a detailed breakdown of statistics and relationships to enhance understanding [10].
Keyboard Controls
Keyboard accessibility is essential to ensure smooth navigation for all users, especially those relying on assistive technologies [12].
To achieve this:
- Add visible focus indicators: Ensure every interactive element highlights when selected.
- Maintain logical tab order: Arrange the tab sequence to follow the natural flow of content.
- Incorporate skip links: Provide shortcuts for users to bypass complex navigation structures [11].
“True accessibility in navigation design isn’t just about compliance – it’s about creating an equitable platform for all users.”
- Stephen McClelland, Digital Strategist, ProfileTree [11]
Data Display Standards
When presenting data visually, accessibility hinges on clear organization and compatibility with screen readers. This includes proper labeling, summaries, and alternative formats.
1. Chart Components
Charts should include:
- Axis titles and scales
- Data point values
- Legend descriptions
- Summaries of trends
2. Table Accessibility
Tables require correct HTML structure and semantic elements:
- Use row and column headers
- Add descriptive captions
- Clarify data relationships
- Apply semantic markup for accessibility [2]
3. Alternative Formats
Offer data in downloadable formats to accommodate different needs:
- CSV files for raw data
- Text-based summaries
- Structured HTML tables [2]
The goal is to ensure that all users, regardless of their tools or methods, can access and understand your data. Always test your implementation with screen readers to confirm everything works as intended [2].
Thorough testing of these technical elements is crucial to guarantee that your interactive and data-driven content meets accessibility standards.
sbb-itb-16c0a3c
Quality Checks
Regular testing plays a crucial role in ensuring your infographics are accessible to everyone. A systematic approach helps uncover and address potential barriers that might hinder usability.
Screen Reader Tests
Using screen readers like JAWS, NVDA, and VoiceOver is essential to confirm that your infographic is accessible. Key areas to focus on include:
Content and Navigation
- Ensure the reading order aligns with the visual hierarchy.
- Verify that alt text provides complete and accurate descriptions.
- Check that data relationships are clearly communicated.
- Confirm users can navigate sections logically, access all interactive elements via keyboard, and understand their position within the content.
Once screen reader testing is complete, follow up with both automated and manual accessibility tools for a thorough evaluation.
Accessibility Tools
A combination of automated and manual testing ensures comprehensive accessibility checks. Here’s how to approach it:
- Begin with automated tools to catch basic issues.
- Follow up with manual testing using assistive technologies.
- Document any findings and outline the necessary fixes.
- Re-test after implementing changes to verify improvements.
| Testing Phase | Recommended Tools | Key Checks |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Review | WAVE, aXe | HTML structure, ARIA labels |
| Color Analysis | WebAIM Contrast Checker | Text contrast, color combinations |
| Interactive Elements | Keyboard Testing Tool | Focus indicators, tab order |
| Final Validation | WCAG Compliance Checker | Adherence to accessibility guidelines |
Color and Contrast Verification
Use a reliable tool to ensure that all foreground and background color combinations meet the 4.5:1 contrast ratio requirement.
Interactive Element Testing
Test interactive elements using a keyboard to confirm the presence of visible focus indicators and proper implementation of ARIA attributes.
“True accessibility in navigation design isn’t just about compliance – it’s about creating an equitable platform for all users.”
- Stephen McClelland, Digital Strategist, ProfileTree [11]
Compliance Standards
Designing accessible infographics isn’t just a good practice – it’s a necessity to meet established guidelines and legal obligations. These standards ensure both accessibility and compliance, benefiting all users.
WCAG Requirements
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) offer a structured approach to digital accessibility. The latest version, WCAG 2.2, released in December 2024, introduces updated criteria to enhance accessibility [13].
Here are some key WCAG principles to consider when designing infographics:
Perceivable Elements
- Use a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 and include descriptive alt text for all graphic elements.
- Ensure content can be displayed in various ways without losing its structure or meaning.
Operable Features
- Make interactive elements accessible via keyboard navigation.
- Allow users ample time to engage with and understand the content.
| Conformance Level | Requirements | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Level A | Basic accessibility features | Essential navigation, basic alt text |
| Level AA | Enhanced accessibility | Color contrast, resizable text |
| Level AAA | Highest accessibility | Advanced features, sign language |
While WCAG defines the technical framework, compliance with legal standards like the ADA ensures these guidelines are enforced.
ADA Rules
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) emphasizes the legal importance of accessible digital content. In 2023 alone, there were over 4,600 ADA-related web accessibility lawsuits, highlighting the need for businesses to prioritize compliance [14].
Compliance Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, with initial violations resulting in fines up to $75,000 and subsequent violations reaching $150,000 [14].
“People rely on websites like never before for all aspects of daily living.” – U.S. Department of Justice [14]
Beyond legal risks, accessibility impacts businesses directly. With 26% of American adults living with a disability and controlling around $490 billion in annual disposable income, inclusive design is also a smart business decision [14].
Key Steps for Compliance
- Incorporate accessibility features during the design phase.
- Perform regular accessibility audits and maintain detailed documentation.
- Use semantic HTML, ensure keyboard-accessible interactions, and provide clear navigation paths.
- Offer alternative formats for content when needed.
Design Resources
Creating accessible infographics requires the right mix of tools and services to meet compliance standards while addressing user needs effectively.
Software Options
Different design tools come with varying levels of accessibility features. Among them, Venngage stands out as the first design platform focusing specifically on accessibility. It offers features like:
- Built-in contrast checking
- PDF/UA export capabilities
- Reading order controls
- Automated accessibility audits
Adobe Illustrator also supports accessible design with:
- Alt text integration
- The ability to export graphics in accessible formats
Here’s a quick comparison of popular design tools and their accessibility features:
| Tool | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Venngage | PDF/UA export, built-in accessibility tests | Complete accessibility workflow |
| Adobe Illustrator | Alt text support, accessible export formats | Comprehensive design solutions |
| Canva | Alt text support, accessible templates | Simple infographics |
| Visme | Keyboard navigation | Interactive designs |
While these tools offer strong starting points, pairing them with thorough testing and professional content services ensures full compliance and usability.
Testing Tools
Testing tools are critical for verifying accessibility. For instance:
- WAVE provides browser-based visual feedback and detailed error reporting to ensure WCAG compliance.
- Axe integrates with browser developer tools and delivers:
- Comprehensive accessibility audits
- Detailed guidance for fixing issues
“While I believe passionately that there is a strong business case for websites to be accessible, in the end it is a civil rights issue. The Internet is too valuable a resource to deprive people of the ability to utilize it.” – Preety Kumar, Deque CEO [15]
Content Services
Even with excellent design and testing, professional content services can further elevate accessibility. RankWriters specializes in making content accessible without compromising design quality. Their services include:
- Semantic HTML implementation
- Screen reader optimization
- Clear content hierarchy
- Alternative format options
- Comprehensive accessibility testing
With 90% of websites still inaccessible [15], there’s a tremendous opportunity for organizations to stand out by embracing inclusive design. This is especially important considering the disability community’s $3 trillion in disposable income [15].
When choosing design tools, prioritize those with built-in accessibility features rather than relying on third-party plugins. This approach ensures a smoother workflow and minimizes potential accessibility gaps.
Next Steps
With design and testing standards met, the focus now shifts to ensuring ongoing accessibility and keeping your infographics up to date. Regular maintenance is essential to guarantee they remain user-friendly for everyone.
Set Up Regular Testing
Establish a consistent testing routine to maintain accessibility. This should include:
- Monthly screen reader checks using tools like NVDA or VoiceOver to confirm compatibility.
- Quarterly color contrast audits to address any changes in design elements.
- Semi-annual reviews of alternative text descriptions to ensure they stay relevant and clear.
These regular evaluations will help you catch and fix potential accessibility issues before they become problems.
Provide Multiple Formats
Offering content in different formats ensures inclusivity for all users. Here’s a quick guide:
| Format | Purpose | Review Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| HTML Data Tables | Optimized for screen readers | After every content update |
| Text Transcripts | Full access to all content | At release and with updates |
By keeping these formats updated, you make your content accessible to a broader audience.
Stay Updated and Organized
Accessibility standards and assistive technologies are always evolving. To stay ahead:
- Keep track of updates to WCAG guidelines.
- Test your content with the latest assistive technologies.
- Experiment with new tools as they emerge.
Document your entire process – use checklists, templates, and test results to make future updates easier and more efficient. Additionally, stick to simple designs and clear visual hierarchies to avoid confusing users. This approach ensures your content remains accessible and easy to navigate over time.
FAQs
How do I make sure my infographic meets WCAG 2.2 and ADA accessibility standards?
To make your infographic accessible and align with WCAG 2.2 and ADA standards, focus on a few important practices. Start by using high-contrast colors for text and backgrounds, ensuring readability for everyone. Provide alt text descriptions for images and charts, allowing screen readers to interpret the content for visually impaired users. Stick to a clean, uncluttered design, making the information easier to follow.
Also, run your infographic through accessibility tools to identify and address any potential issues before sharing it. These steps can help ensure your content is inclusive and easier to use for a diverse audience.
How can I test if my infographic design is accessible to everyone?
To make your infographic more accessible, start by ensuring color contrast is sufficient so that text is easy to read against its background. You can use online tools to confirm the contrast meets established accessibility guidelines. Next, check that all interactive elements work seamlessly with keyboard navigation, which is crucial for users with mobility challenges. Don’t forget to add clear and descriptive alt text to images and graphs, allowing screen readers to communicate the content effectively. Lastly, conduct user testing with individuals who have disabilities to gain practical insights into usability and accessibility. These steps will help ensure your infographic is inclusive and easier to use for everyone.
Why should I provide alternative formats for infographic content, and what options are best to include?
Providing different formats for infographic content is crucial to make information accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. This approach ensures that people with visual impairments, cognitive difficulties, or other challenges can engage with the same material, aligning with ethical responsibilities and legal requirements.
Here are some practical alternatives:
- Detailed text descriptions that thoroughly explain the infographic’s content.
- HTML versions specifically designed for use with screen readers.
- Audio descriptions or narrated summaries highlighting the key points.
These alternatives not only broaden accessibility but also improve the overall user experience by catering to diverse learning styles.
