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Introduction
This module will focus on ensuring that when color is used to convey information, the information is also conveyed in another format that does not require the user to notice or distinguish color.
The Section 508 requirement covering this is: §1194.21 (i) Color coding shall not be used as the only means of conveying information, indicating an action, prompting a response, or distinguishing a visual element.
When color is used as the only means of conveying information, people who are blind or color blind or have low vision may not get the full impact of what is being conveyed. If color is used by itself to identify functionality such as controls or error messages in an application, users who can't see, recognize or distinguish specific colors may be unable to use the product. For example, if red text is used to identify required fields in a form, people who can't see or distinguish colors may not enter the required text in the form. One solution would be to add an asterisk to the text that indicates required fields so that a user does not have to be able to see or distinguish color to know which fields are required.
If a green button is used to complete an operation and a red button is used to cancel it, simply using the instruction: "Press the green button to submit. Press the red button to cancel." will not give users who can't see or distinguish color enough information to know which button to use. By labeling the buttons with alternative text stating "Submit" and "Cancel," and by updating the instructions, there is no need for users to see the color of the buttons in order to choose the one they want.
This requirement is not intended to prohibit or discourage the use of color to convey meaning in an application. Color can be a very effective way to draw a user's attention to important information or features. The goal is to provide an alternative method of conveying the same information whenever color is used. For visual users, you can pair color with format changes such as a different typeface or bold text for emphasis. But it is important to remember that in order to provide accessibility for non-visual users, you will need to use descriptive text or symbols to indicate the same information that the color conveys.
In this module you will see some examples of alternative methods used in combination with color to convey information, and how to test whether these methods have been used in a way that complies with the requirement.
Remember, both testers and developers can use the checkpoints for this requirement to be sure the products they are working with will be accessible to users with disabilities, including those using assistive technology (AT).
Use the link above to look at the checkpoints now. You may wish to keep the window open as a reference to use as you complete this module.
Video Overview of this Requirement
To view a very short video with additional information that may be helpful to testers and developers, select the video link below. The video will open in a new window; if you are using a screen reader to take this training, press Enter when you hear, "To start, press Play button."
Select Next for an example.
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