Start with the type of display
A passive announcement screen, a rotating directory, and an interactive check-in kiosk create different access needs. Identify what people must learn or accomplish and whether they can control the display.
Three layers of access: content must be understandable, controls must be usable, and hardware must be reachable. Address all three.
Make information readable
- Size text for the actual viewing distance and screen placement.
- Check glare, ambient light, contrast, and seated viewing positions.
- Use short messages, clear hierarchy, and familiar wording.
- Allow enough time to read each message; keep essential instructions available.
- Avoid busy backgrounds, rapid changes, unnecessary animation, and unsafe flashing.
- Test the installed display rather than relying only on a desktop mockup.
Provide equivalent access
Caption meaningful audio and provide an accessible way to obtain important visual information. An image’s alt text is useful only when users have a supported way to access it; merely placing alt text in a signage source file does not make a wall display accessible.
A companion web page can help, but a QR code should not be the only way to obtain essential information. Consider people who cannot see or scan it or do not have a suitable device. Offer a practical route to equivalent information or service.
Design independent kiosk use
- Provide accessible input, speech output, and discoverable instructions as appropriate to the system.
- Support private listening when personal information is spoken.
- Allow users to adjust volume and manage timing.
- Make error recovery and restarting straightforward.
- Keep controls within applicable reach ranges and provide clear floor space.
- Test the privacy and independence of the entire transaction.
Apply the right standards
Web-based kiosk interfaces can be evaluated against WCAG. Non-web software can use WCAG2ICT guidance, while applicable ICT and physical standards address hardware and closed functionality. WCAG alone does not describe every requirement for an installed kiosk.
Official guidance: ICT standards, including closed functionality
Official guidance: ADA physical accessibility standards
Installation review
- Review screen position, approach space, lighting, sound, and privacy.
- Complete each task using the supported accessible interaction method.
- Confirm all essential messages have usable equivalents.
- Include accessibility in vendor acceptance and maintenance checks.