Combine color-coded information with text for optimal interaction
no. 022
Make sure color-coded information is also supported with text
Information conveyed through colors only can be very difficult, if not impossible to use for some users. It is therefore important to ensure that when color differences are used to convey information, such as distinguishing required form fields (displayed in red) from optional form fields or telling hyperlinks from regular text, that the information conveyed by the color differences is also conveyed explicitly in another way.
To do this, simply make sure that whenever color is use to provide some level of information or distinguish one object from another, that this information is also somehow conveyed through text: asterisks for required fields and underline for links being two common examples. This will help people who are colorblind or have low vision and who may not be able to perceive colors reliably to also understand how to efficiently use the interface or feature provided.
User Story
As a colorblind user, I want color-coded information to be equally supported in text, so that I never miss out on important information.
Simple Code Example
Not Applicable
Testing Methodology
Verify that no information provided in the page is only conveyed through [...]