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Technology Accessibility

Accessible Data Visualizations

Suggested Practices:

  • Use Descriptive Titles and Labels
    • Clearly label axes, legends, and data points.
    • Use meaningful titles that summarize the key message of the visualization.
  • Provide Text Alternatives
    • Include alt text or long descriptions for charts and graphs.
    • Summarize key insights in surrounding text or captions.
  • Ensure Color Accessibility
    • Avoid relying solely on color to convey information.
    • Use high-contrast color palettes and colorblind-friendly schemes.
    • Use patterns or textures in addition to color for differentiation.
  • Use Accessible Chart Types
    • Prefer simpler chart types (e.g., bar charts, line graphs) over complex ones (e.g., 3D pie charts).
    • Avoid clutter and unnecessary embellishments.
  • Keyboard and Screen Reader Compatibility
    • Ensure interactive visualizations are navigable by keyboard.
    • Use ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) roles and labels for screen reader support.
  • Responsive and Scalable Design
    • Make sure visualizations are responsive to different screen sizes.
    • Allow zooming without loss of clarity or context.
  • Provide Data Tables
    • Offer the underlying data in a tabular format for screen readers and users who prefer raw data.
  • Test with Real Users
    • Conduct usability testing with people who have various disabilities.
    • Use accessibility evaluation tools (e.g., WAVE from webaim.org).

    Tableau Accessibility Resources

    • Best Practices for Designing Accessible Views – Tableau Help
      • Aligning with WCAG 2.1 AA standards
      • Simplifying views for screen readers
      • Using text alternatives and aggregating data
      • Ensuring keyboard navigability and operability
      • Author Views for Accessibility – A companion guide that walks through how to structure Tableau dashboards for accessibility when publishing to Tableau Server or Tableau Cloud.

     Power BI Accessibility Resources

    1. Overview of Accessibility in Power BI – Microsoft Learn
      This comprehensive article includes:
      • Accessibility standards (WCAG 2.1, EN 301 549)
      • Universal design principles
      • Tools for creating and consuming accessible reports
      • Keyboard shortcuts and screen reader support2
    2. Creating Accessible Reports in Power BI
      Linked from the overview, this guide provides step-by-step instructions for:
      • Adding alt text
      • Using accessible visuals
      • Structuring reports for screen readers