These guidelines propose typographic standards for screen-based text accessibility for those with low vision, drawing from twentieth-century graphic design principles.
Low vision is defined as an uncorrectable sight deficiency resulting from diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, which are often age-related. Approximately 180 million people experience visual impairment globally; roughly 40-45 million are blind (WHO, 2001).
Screen reading proves substantially slower than paper reading — between 25 to 30% slower — causing fatigue and errors.
These guidelines emerged from the Universal Web Project, led by Professor Hans van Dijk at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) with Markle Foundation support. The project focuses on typography at the letter and word levels while addressing layout, color, navigation, and cognition.
Original Plates
