Creating Accessible Content: Digital Signs

Digital signage should be easy for everyone to see, understand and navigate. Using readable text, clear contrast, captioned video and accessible design practices helps people with disabilities access information and improves usability for all viewers.

Use the guidance on this page to help create accessible digital signage for university communications, events and campus messaging.

Who Is Responsible?

Anyone who creates, edits or manages digital signage content for their college, unit or department is responsible for helping ensure that the content is accessible.

What Standards Must Be Met?

Digital signage should align with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA and support the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Content should also provide an alternative way for users to access the same information when needed.

What to Do

Use the following best practices to help ensure digital signage is accessible to all users.

1. Ensure readable text size: Use text large enough to be read from the intended viewing distance. As a general guideline, use larger text for key messages and avoid overcrowding slides.
2. Provide high color contrast: Ensure strong contrast between text and background and avoid low-contrast color combinations.
3. Use clear, readable fonts: Choose simple, sans-serif fonts such as Arial, Helvetica or similar. Avoid decorative fonts, excessive italics and all caps for long text.
4. Allow sufficient display time: Ensure content remains on screen long enough to be read comfortably. Avoid rapid transitions or fast-moving content.
5. Use accessible placement: Position displays so they are visible from a range of heights and distances, including for individuals using wheelchairs.
6. Provide captions for video content: Include accurate captions for all video or audio content displayed on screens.
7. Avoid flashing or strobing content: Do not use content that flashes more than three times per second or includes rapid animation that may trigger seizures.
8. Provide alternative access: Ensure important information is also available in other formats, such as webpages or printed materials.
9. Minimize glare and lighting issues: Position screens to reduce glare and ensure content is clearly visible in the environment.

Support

For guidance on creating accessible digital signage content, contact University Communications.

What Tools Are Available?

• Accessible Web WCAG Color Contrast Checker
• Built-in accessibility tools in design software such as Adobe InDesign or similar tools used to create signage content

Training and Resources

• Guide to Accessible Digital Signage
• Guide to ADA-Compliant Signage Installation