Accessible Campus Display Screen Content Creation Best Practices

1. Visual Contrast and Readability

This is the most common area where digital signage fails. Text must be easily distinguishable from the background.

• Contrast Ratio: Aim for Level AA standards. For regular text, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1. For large text (over 18pt or 14pt bold), it should be 3:1.
• Font Choice: Use clean Sans Serif fonts (like Arial, Helvetica, or Roboto). Avoid decorative or script fonts that become illegible at a distance.
• Text Size: Ensure the text is large enough to be read from the furthest point in the room or hallway.

2. Color Independence

Never use color as the only way to convey information. If a slide says "The red deadline is for seniors and the blue deadline is for juniors," a colorblind student may not be able to distinguish them.

• Solution: Use labels, patterns, or different shapes alongside color to differentiate data or categories.

3. Timing and Movement

The "Pause, Stop, Hide" rule (WCAG Success Criterion 2.2.2) is critical for digital signage.

• Reading Speed: A general rule of thumb is to allow 120 words per minute. If a slide has 20 words, it should stay on screen for at least 10 seconds.
• Flashing Content: Avoid any content that flashes more than three times per second, as this can trigger seizures.
• Stationary Alternatives: If the screens rotate quickly, ensure the same information is available in a static format elsewhere (like a website or a physical flyer with a QR code).

4. The "Equivalent Experience" Strategy

Since a screen on a wall cannot be "read" by a screen reader (the software used by blind students), you must provide a text-based alternative.

• QR Codes: Include a small, high-contrast QR code in a consistent corner of the slide. This code should link to a mobile-friendly webpage or a PDF that contains the exact text and descriptions of the images on the slide.
• Consistent Location: Place the QR code in the same spot on every slide so users know where to find it.

Quick Accessibility Checklist