Many of us who use word processors like to use a wide range of features on offer.  One feature that can make documents difficult to read is shading eg. in text boxes or on headings. 

Compare these two examples:

Shading can be a bigger problem if print quality is not good.

People who need good contrast between text and background might request that documents be reformatted and reprinted, with shading removed.

Another fancy formatting feature that can produce problems is text over graphics.  You see this most often in marketing material, and can put off many people including those with good sight, as the message is hidden.

This is a particular problem on some web sites, when backgrounds are that do not provide sufficient contrast for the overlying text.

This site is a working draft only!  For more information on this project, send an email to: unidesign@optusnet.com.au

© State of Queensland (Department of Employment & Training) 2005