#43022
Speaker(s)
- Hiyan Sisson, Creative Director, The 508 Institute
- Prudhvi Mandava, Digital 508 Compliance Manager, The 508 Institute
Session Details
- Length of Session: 1-hr
- Format: Lecture
- Expertise Level: Beginner
- Type of session: General Conference
Summary
Learn practical, technology-agnostic strategies for designing inclusive, WCAG-compliant visuals that hold up across every format, including web pages, PDFs, video, authoring tools, and print. Through real examples, live demos, and case studies, this session shows how to test and fix color contrast issues, correct color-dependent communication, and improve the accessibility of charts, graphics, and other visual elements anywhere they appear.
Abstract
Designing accessible visuals requires more than meeting basic color contrast ratios. It involves understanding how visual information is perceived, how accessibility standards define compliant communication, and how design choices can unintentionally create barriers for people with impairments. This session provides practical, design-focused strategies for creating inclusive visuals that work across digital platforms. Because WCAG or Title II visual requirements don't change based on the platform, the principles we teach are universal; if something fails in one digital medium, more likely than not, it will be non-compliant across all other programs.
We will explore how to test and remediate color contrast issues, when non-text contrast is required, and how to avoid relying on color alone to convey meaning. Through real examples, live demonstrations, and visual case studies, participants will see how small design adjustments such as pattern variation, text labeling, contrast-safe palettes, and conforming alternatives can significantly improve accessibility without compromising visual appeal.
The session also addresses common pitfalls in charts, graphics, and hyperlinks, showing how to redesign visual elements so they remain clear, perceivable, and compliant across formats. Because the same core techniques apply whether you design for print, digital documents, or the web, attendees will leave with actionable techniques they can apply immediately in any medium.
This presentation is intended for designers, content creators, and accessibility professionals who want practical guidance supported by visual demonstrations rather than theory alone. Attendees will gain a stronger understanding of how to create visuals that communicate effectively to all users, regardless of platform.
Keypoints
- Born accessible design prevents barriers by integrating accessibility from the very first design decision.
- Accessible visual design requires more than text contrast.
- Good design and accessibility are not in conflict because both aim for clarity and effective communication.
Disability Areas
Cognitive/Learning, Vision
Topic Areas
Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Other, Uncategorized
Speaker Bio(s)
Hiyan Sisson
Hiyan Sisson is a Creative Director and 508 Coordinator for The 508 Institute and Schatz Strategy Group with more than twenty years of experience leading large multidisciplinary teams across federal, state, and commercial projects. She oversees designers, accessibility specialists, videographers, editors, and web developers, guiding complex creative and compliance workflows for agencies including NPS, USDA, HHS, VA, DOT, and DOS. Hiyan is certified as a DHS Trusted Tester and holds the Information Accessibility Design and Policy certification from the University of Illinois. She also serves as a guest lecturer in the George Washington University Masters in Publishing program.
Prudhvi Mandava
Mr. Mandava has directly overseen the remediation of more than 115,000 pages of documentation across federal and state agencies. In addition, he co-manages the 508 Institute’s Section 508 compliance program, leading a dedicated team of remediation specialists across multiple federal contracts. As 508 Institute Administrator, he oversees the instructors, develops and updates course content, and tailors custom accessibility solutions for clients. He is proficient with JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, Adobe Acrobat, CommonLook, ARIA, and Microsoft 365/SharePoint. His knowledge of digital accessibility policies allows him to create easy to follow roadmaps to create efficient governance plans.