Infographics and data visualizations are powerful tools for conveying complex information in a concise and visually engaging manner. Accessibility in infographics and data visualizations ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can access and understand the information presented. This is not just a matter of compliance with accessibility standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), but also an intrinsic element of inclusive design.
With that said, to truly make data-driven content accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments, following accessibility guidelines and design techniques is essential. In this short guide, we’ll examine proven techniques for creating accessible infographics and data visualizations that are inclusive and understandable to a wide audience.
Start with content
Before diving into the design process, you need clear, well-structured content. Ensure source data is logically organized and easy to understand in its raw form.
Choose the right type of data visualization
Different types of visualizations, such as bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, and tables, are better suited for conveying different types of data. Choose one that best represents your data accurately and intuitively.
Use high-contrast colors and text
Contrast is vital for accessibility. Ensure that text and graphical elements have sufficient contrast to make them easily distinguishable. Use a color contrast tool to confirm that your color choices meet accessibility requirements.
Provide alt text for images and graphs
It’s best to avoid embedding essential information in images, but all images and graphs in your infographic should have descriptive alt text that conveys the content's meaning to users with visual impairments. Alt text should be concise but informative.
Label your visual elements
Labeling is essential for making data visualizations accessible. For charts and graphs, label axes, data points, and legends clearly. Ensure that labels are text-based rather than relying solely on color or shape.
Implement keyboard navigation
Infographics should be navigable using a keyboard alone. Users with disabilities may rely on keyboard navigation, so ensure that all interactive elements — such as buttons and links — are accessible via the Tab key and provide clear focus indicators.
Create accessible tables
If you include tables in your infographic, make them accessible by using HTML table elements. Include headers for rows and columns, and provide captions or summaries to explain the table's purpose.
Use semantic HTML
For web-based infographics, use semantic HTML elements to structure your content. This includes using headings to create a hierarchical outline and employing lists and paragraphs appropriately.
Offer alternative accessible versions
Provide alternative, accessible versions of your infographic for users who cannot fully access the visual content. This might include providing a downloadable data table or a text-based summary of the information presented.
Test with screen readers
Test your infographic with screen reader software to ensure that it's understandable and navigable. Pay attention to how screen readers interpret the content and adjust as needed.
Test for color vision deficiency
Test your infographic to ensure it is comprehensible to users with color vision deficiencies. There are online tools that can help simulate how your design appears to individuals with different types of color blindness.
Maintain simplicity
Keep your infographic design clean and uncluttered. Avoid excessive use of visual effects, animations, or complex layouts that may distract or confuse users.
Digital tools for creating accessible infographics and data visualizations
Creating accessible infographics and data visualizations requires the use of digital tools that support accessibility features and allow for the incorporation of accessible design practices. There are several tools available, including the following.
- Microsoft Powerpoint – PowerPoint offers a range of accessibility features, including the ability to add alt text to images and data visualizations. It also provides design tools for creating accessible charts and graphs.
- Adobe Illustrator – Adobe Illustrator is a powerful vector graphics software tool that allows you to create detailed and customizable infographics. You can add alt text to images and export graphics in accessible formats.
- Google Sheets – Google Docs is a spreadsheet tool that allows you to create and customize charts and graphs. It also provides options for adding alt text to images and is compatible with Google's accessibility tools.
- Visme – Visme is an online tool for creating infographics, presentations, and other visual content. It includes accessibility features like alt text and keyboard navigation, making it user-friendly for people with disabilities.
- Tableau – Tableau is a data visualization platform that offers accessibility features for creating accessible charts and graphs. It supports data-driven storytelling and provides options for alt text and keyboard navigation.
- Infogram – Infogram is an online tool for creating interactive and accessible infographics and charts. It includes features for adding alt text and providing accessible embed options.
- Canva – Canva is a popular design tool that offers accessible design options for creating infographics. It allows users to add alt text to images and provides templates for accessible designs.
- Venngage – Venngage is an infographic maker that offers accessibility features, including alt text and the ability to create accessible charts and graphs. It also provides customizable templates.
- Piktochart – Piktochart is an online tool for creating infographics, reports, and presentations. It includes accessibility features such as alt text and keyboard navigation.
- Easel.ly – Easel.ly is an infographic maker that provides accessibility options for users. It allows you to add alt text and create infographics with accessible designs.
- Inkscape – Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics editor that supports accessibility features. It is suitable for creating detailed, accessible infographics.
When using these tools, remember to follow best practices for accessibility, including adding alt text to images, using high-contrast colors, and providing clear labels and descriptions. Always test your infographics and data visualizations with accessibility tools and screen readers to ensure they are truly inclusive for all users.
Follow accessibility best practices to maximize the power of visual content
Creating accessible infographics and data visualizations is an impactful way to reach a broader audience and ensure that everyone can benefit from the information you present. By following these techniques and adhering to accessibility guidelines, you can design visual content that is inclusive, informative, and understandable to all users, regardless of their abilities. Accessibility should be an integral part of the design process to make data-driven content truly inclusive.
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