Presented at 9:00 am in Colorado G-H on Friday, November 21, 2025.
#41138Speaker(s)
- Elizabeth Franklin, Allyant
Session Details
- Length of Session: 1-hr
- Format: Lecture
- Expertise Level: Beginner
- Type of session: General Conference
Summary
This session offers insights into best practices, considerations, and strategies for authors and document remediators to consider when creating or remediating complex graphics, including color contrast, color use, and cognitive load. We will discuss how best to describe complex graphics in alternative text and examine different ways to tag these types of images for the best user experience. We will examine specific examples of well tagged Infographics, Flow Charts, and Maps in Adobe Acrobat Pro to show examples of implemented recommended strategies.
Abstract
In document accessibility, a persistent question echoes through forums and discussions: “How do I make complex graphics — from flowcharts and organizational charts to infographics —accessible?” This inquiry extends beyond complying with fundamental color, contrast, pattern, and text label guidelines. This session embarks on a comprehensive exploration of strategies and considerations to ensure the accessibility of big graphics from both the author's and the remediator's perspectives.
Delving into the intricacies, we will dissect real-world examples, including maps, infographics, and flowcharts, to uncover techniques to ensure the information can be easily understood as well as navigable. We will engage in a dialogue on best practices and requirements related to these visual elements. We will discuss innovative approaches like strategically hiding good text beneath images for easier tagging, breaking down big graphics into smaller accessible segments, and more. Participants will leave this presentation with a deeper understanding and knowledge of how to best create and remediate complex graphics for accessibility.
Keypoints
- Learn the requirements and best practices regarding authoring accessible graphics for documents.
- Explore different options that document remediators can use to make big graphics accessible.
- Weigh the pros and cons of various approaches to the accessibility of big graphics.
Disability Areas
Cognitive/Learning, Mobility, Vision
Topic Areas
Accessibility and Accommodation in the Current Political/Legal Environment, Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Uncategorized
Speaker Bio(s)
Elizabeth Franklin
Elizabeth Franklin is an Accessible Document Specialist and Software Trainer at Allyant. She works with clients to ensure their documents not only meet accessibility standards, but also provide the best user experience for all audiences. Elizabeth has a Master’s in Education degree and over 20 years of teaching experience. Currently, she is a member of the PDF/UA Association Liaison Working Group and designs and develops accessible online training. She has presented at the 2024 CSUN Assistive Technology Conference and Accessing Higher Ground Conference.