Graphics and Color
Effective use of graphics and color is one way writers can design their print materials universally.
Graphics
For graphics to be universally designed, writers must consider the graphics themselves and the way the audience will receive them. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when using graphics.
- Graphics should supplement text in ways that make sense to users. This is especially true for users who speak English as a second language, for whom obscure or culturally specific graphics could confuse clear content.
- Designers should not rely on metaphor when using graphics. Metaphors that are relevant to one people group are not universally applicable. The Noun Project shows examples of graphics that can be used in many situations because they are relatively familiar to most people.
- Graphics should be optimized for the print medium they are a part of. Depending on the type of print material used, designers may need to change file formats for optimization.
Color
Color in print-based writing is a great way to reinforce important information and unify themes within a document. Since color in print is not free, designers must carefully choose the most effective ways to use color while still staying within project guidelines. Here are some ways to universally design documents with color.
- When using color for headings or text, consistently use the same colors according to heading levels or type of information. For example, all main headings could be blue, and all secondary headings could be brown. These colors should not be interchanged, though. Consistent colors help guide users through a text, giving them a logical map to follow.
- Use colors that will increase readability. For example, provide adequate contrast between background colors and foreground elements. Black on white provides the best contrast, but there are other color combinations that are just as effective.
- Ensure that color is not the only method by which information is conveyed or users are prompted to do something. For example, if adjacent slices on a pie chart are colored red and green, users who have visual impairments or partial sight may have trouble differentiating the color blocks. Make sure there is additional information that conveys meaning.
- Use colors and color combinations that would exclude a particular people group from receiving the intended message. Keep cultural and psychological associations with color in mind.