Read time: 50 seconds
Can you understand the overall trend of the graph?
Can you quickly grasp the relationship between parts of the data?
- Kwame has trouble reading graphs with small text.
Steps to take
- Follow data visualisation best practices. Allow the data and your communication goals for the visualisation to dictate format and visual style, instead of the latest aesthetic trend.
- Give context. Support the visuals with a brief description of the overall trend that’s generated by the chart.
- Ensure the data and variables are clearly labeled.
- Make sure there’s sufficient contrast between graph colors. People with colour blindness will be able to better distinguish the colours.
- Think about complementing the graph with a table of information. It will be read more easily by a screen reader and when compressed to mobile.
- Experience the web as a person with a permanent, temporary and situational disability. The following tools provide a great introduction:
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines
Page last updated: 22 June 2021