Accessibility Tip: Don’t Rely on Color Alone

A digital graphic displays two side-by-side bar charts under the heading “Accessibility Tip: Don’t Rely on Color Alone.” • Left panel : A chart with red, green, and yellow bars, unlabeled, with the caption “Hard to read for colorblind users.” • Right panel : The same chart now includes text labels and patterns on each bar, with the caption “Clear for everyone.” The background is high contrast, and the design emphasizes how using text and patterns improves accessibility.

Accessibility Tip of the Week: Don’t rely on color alone

When designing charts, forms, or anything visual, color can be helpful—but it shouldn’t be the only way you convey information.

Not everyone sees color the same way. Relying on red for “stop” or green for “go” leaves some people out.

Here’s how to make your design more accessible:

Add text labels or icons Use patterns or textures Test with a colorblind simulator

Design for clarity. Don’t rely on color alone.

Got an accessibility tip to share? Drop it in the comments—we might feature it next week.

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