The Time Has Come for Redundant Coding in Print Publications

Abstract

Color is often used by itself to convey meaning in print publications. In the world of computer-human interaction, however, it has long been understood that color should be used with another code, such as shape or pattern fills, to make the content accessible to everyone, including those with deficits in color vision. Likewise, redundant coding is needed in print publications to convey meaning to all readers, including those whose normal color perception has faded with age. It's time to make our published charts and graphs universally accessible.