Visual accessibility in graphic design: A client–designer communication failure. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cornish, Katie; Goodman-Deane, Joy; Ruggeri, Kai; Clarkson, P. John
• Is Part Of: Design studies. Volume 40(2015)
• Page Start: 176
• Page End: 195
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: graphic design -- communication -- design processes -- user centred design -- visual accessibility; Design -- Periodicals; 745.405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.destud.2015.07.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0142-694X

Abstract

Abstract : It is essential that graphic design is visually clear and accessible. However, evidence suggests that a lack of consideration is given to visual accessibility in print-based graphic design. Furthermore, effective client–designer communication is a vital component in this. This paper investigates current graphic design practice, with regard to visual accessibility, specifically focussing on client–designer communication. A survey of 122 graphic designers and clients identified that these two groups may not be communicating with each other effectively with regard to visual accessibility, and that there is a need to develop inclusive design tools to assist them with this. This paper adds a novel contribution to our limited understanding of visual accessibility in the UK's graphic design industry. Highlights: We conducted a survey of 122 graphic designers and clients. We investigated the consideration given to visual accessibility in graphic design. Designers and clients do not communicate effectively about visual accessibility. We need to develop tools to assist designers with visual accessibility. We need to investigate the development of ethical design codes.