Creating accessible Infographics

Complex graphics, such as infographics, pose issues for screen readers. Unlike a text document, a screen reader cannot identify text within decorative elements unless the document is “tagged” with alternative text.

For example, the “18%” located on the Canadian map graphic below demonstrates text that is not accessible to screen readers as it is. Follow the tips below to create accessible infographics that provide all of the information to your readers.

Transcripts for infographics

A transcript is a text description of an infographic that screen readers can read. Transcripts provide the text-equivalent information. A transcript can be presented in the following ways:

  • The transcript of information can be included directly below the infographic as regular text.
  • Ensure that the same information is included in the transcript as in the infographic. Do not editorialize.
  • Ensure the reading order presents the information in a logical sequence.
  • Include a “highlights” section for readers seeking facts quickly.
  • A transcript can also be linked (link to a separate document or page with the transcript). In this case, provide a descriptive link to the transcript directly below the image infographic.
  • Unless an image is meaningful in that it provides additional information or context, do not describe the creative element.

For example, when transcribing that “18% of Canadians reported symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety”, we would not mention that the information was positioned on top of a map of Canada. Just the fact would be included in the transcript.

Transcribed Infographic Example

Mental Health of Canadians During the Covid-19 Pandemic Infographic

Perceived Mental Health

In May 2020, 48% of Canadians reported having excellent or very good mental health. However, this was 6 percentage points lower than it was at the end of March.

First online survey results, March 29 to April 3rd, 2020

  • Excellent or very good 54%
  • Good 28%
  • Poor or Fair 18%

Second online survey results, May 4th to May 10, 2020

  • Excellent or very good 48%
  • Good 30%
  • Poor or Fair 22%

Moderate to Severe Anxiety

There were 18% of Canadians who reported symptoms of moderate to severe anxiety in the previous two weeks. All the regions reported similar rates.

  • Youth aged 15 to 24 27%
  • Adults aged 25 to 64 19%
  • Seniors aged 65 and older 10%

Women were more likely than men to report symptoms consistent with moderate or severe anxiety.

  • Women 21%
  • Men 15%

There are many things you can do to help improve your physical and mental health during stressful times.

Here is what Canadians reported doing in May:

  • Communicated with friends and family 37%
  • Meditated 12%
  • Exercised outdoors 57%
  • Exercised indoors 40%
  • Changed food 23%

Infographic Source: Mental Health of Canadians During the Covid-19 Pandemic, Statistics Canada, statcan.gc.ca

Example of an infographic that outlines the mental health of Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Findings

  • Canadians reported excellent or very good mental health of 48% in May which is down 6%.
  • Those feeling good increased by 2% and those feeling poor or fair increased by 4%.
  • These are not huge gains or losses but indicate those who wee feeling excellent or very good are moving into the goo or poor or fair category as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact the daily lives of Canadians.
  • Youths aged 15 to 24 made up the largest segment of the population to report moderate to severe anxiety.
  • 21% Of Women reported symptoms consistent with moderate or severe anxiety in contrast to just 15% of men.
  • Canadians exercised and communicated with friends and family to improve their mental health during the month of May.