Design accessibility checklist
Skip to main content
Careers Contact us

Design accessibility checklist

Brand Guidelines

This checklist highlights design accessibility considerations. It helps ensure content is accessible and can be used for print, digital, signage, presentations, etc.

This checklist is a practical tool for employees and contractors to use when preparing content. Following these checks helps ensure your work is both on-brand and accessible.

Important: This checklist is intentionally high-level. If your final output falls under specific document or digital accessibility requirements, those requirements take precedence of this checklist. 

Color and contrast

  • Use sufficient color contrast between text and background.
    • 4.5:1 color contrast between text and background colors
    • 3:1 contrast between graphic elements and background colors
  • Don’t rely on color alone to convey meaning.
    • Example: Use icons or labels in addition to colors.
  • Avoid problematic color combinations 
    • Example: Red/green or blue/purple are hard for some users to differentiate between colors.

Content and language

  • Use plain language and avoid jargon when possible.
    • Example: Say “use” instead of “utilize.”
  • Keep sentences short and direct.
    • Aim for a reading level around 8th grade.
  • Use headings and bullet points to break up dense content.
    • Improves scanning and comprehension.
  • Use clear headings and labels for content sections and forms.

Images and icons

  • Use icons that are generaelly associated with content labels when possible.
    • Example: A trash can icon with the word “Delete.”
  • Avoid text embedded in images.
    • Text in images isn't automatically read by screen readers.
  • Ensure imagery supports the message and doesn’t distract or confuse.
    • Images should be related to the content. 
  • Use alt text to describe images that are relevant to content. 

Layout and spacing

  • Use clear visual hierarchy to guide the user.
    • It's better to have long well-structured content than short hard-to-read content.
  • Ensure adequate spacing between elements.
    • Avoid clutter that overwhelms or confuses.
  • Align content consistently to support scanning and comprehension.
    • Example: Left-aligned text is easier to read than center-aligned.

Motion and animation

  • Avoid flashing or strobing effects.
    • Reference: WCAG – Three flashes or below threshold.
  • Provide reduced motion options for digital materials.
    • Example: Respect system settings for reduced motion.
  • Use animation purposefully, not decoratively.
    • Example: Use transitions to guide attention, not just for flair.

Typography/Fonts

  • Use a minimum font sizes that adhere to accessibility requirements. 
    • 12-point font in print and 16-pixel for digital content.
    • Example: Small text in 8-pixel font is not readable.
  • Use headlines sizes to create a clear hierarchy, applied in a consistent and logical order, to guide user and meet accessibility requirements.
  • Maintain sufficient line spacing 
    • Font size 1.5 times line height is a general standard. 
    • This approach improves readability, especially for users with visual disabilities.

Brand review

  • Use brand review checklist.
  • Important: Content should follow brand guidelines to build trust, transparency, and consistency.