Visual accessibility misconceptions held by graphic designers and their clients

Abstract

With an ageing population, Inclusive Design is increasing in importance. However, misconceptions surrounding its practice may be limiting its uptake in industry. The visual accessibility of a product is a key aspect of Inclusive Design, and is particularly important in the graphic design industry due to its heavy reliance on visual communication. To improve the uptake of Inclusive Design in this area, we need to increase our understanding of graphic design practice and the misconceptions surrounding visually accessible design. Interviews were used to identify seven common misconceptions held by graphic designers and their clients, including the belief that the designer will consider visual accessibility, even if it is not in the brief.