Infographics are popular because they turn complex ideas into something quick and visual. A chart, diagram, or illustrated timeline can explain in seconds what a paragraph might take minutes to read. That’s the upside.
The downside is that many infographics leave people out.
When an infographic is not accessible, it can become invisible—or confusing—to users with disabilities. On the web, that’s a real problem, especially for public institutions and organizations that serve everyone.
Below is a clear look at the main accessibility concerns with infographics, why they matter, and how to fix them.
The Core Problem: Images Don’t Talk
An infographic is usually just one big image. To a screen reader (software that reads web content out loud), that image is silent unless you give it words.
Think of it like hanging a detailed poster on a wall in a dark room. If no one turns on the lights or explains what’s there, some people simply can’t access the information.
That’s why accessibility always starts with text alternatives.
Solutions to consider
1) Build the infographic as a web page first (not a single image)
If the “infographic” is really information (steps, stats, comparisons, timelines), the most accessible way to publish it is as real web content—headings, short sections, lists, and simple charts—then use visuals as support.
Why this is better
- Screen readers can read it naturally (because it’s text, not a picture).
- People can zoom text without it getting blurry.
- It works better on mobile.
- Search engines can understand it.
- You can still make it look like an infographic using UTC components and icons (cards, callouts, stat blocks, accordions, tabs, icon lists, timelines, etc.).
Real-life example
Instead of a “one-poster infographic,” think of a museum exhibit:
- Each panel has a headline + a short explanation.
- Visuals are there, but the story is still readable even if you ignore the images.
What this looks like in practice
- Convert each section of the infographic into:
- A clear heading
- 1–3 short sentences
- A list or table if needed
- A small chart (optional) with labels
- Use UTC’s existing components to keep it branded and “designed,” not plain.
2) Keep the image version as a supporting visual (optional)
If you still want the “poster-style” image:
- Include it below the web version, not instead of it.
- Treat it like an illustration, not the only way to get the info.
3) If you do use an infographic image, write useful alt text
Alt text should explain the main point, not just “infographic.”
- Bad: “Infographic about enrollment”
- Better: “Enrollment rose steadily from 2018 to 2024, with the biggest increase in online programs.”
For complex visuals, add a text version right below it.
4) Don’t use color as the only way to communicate meaning
If the chart relies on “red vs green” or “light blue vs dark blue,” some users won’t be able to tell the difference.
Fixes:
- Add labels directly on the chart
- Use patterns or icons
- Make sure contrast is strong
5) Avoid embedding lots of text inside the image
Text inside images:
- can’t be resized well,
- gets blurry on mobile,
- is often missed by assistive tech.
If it’s important, it should be real text on the page.
6) Put the data in text form too
If the infographic is based on numbers:
- add a small table,
- or a bullet list of key takeaways.
This helps everyone skim and helps screen readers.
Quick “UTC-ready” checklist
- Web page version is the primary content
- Use UTC components + icons to keep it visual
- Optional image version has alt text + text version
- No color-only meaning
- Data exists in text/table form
- Works well on mobile and keyboard