Kindle and Colorblind Users Case Study
Accessibility in graphic design became a major topic in the recent years, and many design publications have been covering and emphasizing the topic. Knowing that 8% of men are colorblind, led me to test my designs for colorblind users, aligning with universal design principles to create inclusive products.
Kindle Experience
Upon acquiring a Kindle Oasis, I noticed the importance of visual contrast on its monochromatic screen. This experience highlighted the necessity for designs that remain readable in black and white, commonly encountered when:
Users can't see colors
Using monochromatic screens (e-books)
Printing in black ink
Left: Mapping Experiences by J. Kalbach, print version. Right: The Kindle version.
Texture in Informational Design
To enhance readability on monochromatic screens, I added textures to differentiate elements in infographics. For instance, using varied textures like lines, circles, and shapes proved more effective than using different shades of blue. This made the information clearer and more distinguishable. Informal feedback from two friends confirmed that the version with textures was easier to read. They found that associating similar items (circle to circle, square to square) was immediate. Software like Microsoft Excel has already pioneered using textures as an alternative to color, making users familiar with patterns and textures as informational keys.
Implementation and Testing
After experimenting with various textures and contrasts, I determined that diverse graphic properties improve legibility. For example, using lines, dots, and different shapes instead of merely varying sizes of the same shape helps set each item apart. This approach increased the contrast between elements, making the graphic more accessible. The color versions on the left and the monochromatic simulations on the right demonstrated this improvement.
Future Recommendations
Ten years ago, responsive design—adapting websites for desktops, tablets, and mobile phones—was met with skepticism. Today, it is standard practice for digital practitioners. Similarly, book publishers should integrate textures in charts and graphics to enhance accessibility. Even as e-readers like the Kindle evolve to support color, designing for colorblind users will remain crucial due to the persistent prevalence of colorblindness.
Conclusion
Incorporating textures into informational design is a practical and effective way to ensure accessibility for colorblind users. As technology advances, maintaining inclusive design practices will continue to be essential. By adopting these methods, designers can create products that are accessible to a broader audience, enhancing usability and user experience for everyone.
Kindle Oasis by Amazon: Monochromatic screens (and colorblind users) could benefit from the usage of texture when color isn’t an option.