Digital Accessibility Basics: Digital Signage

Anyone who creates, manages, or distributes content for digital signage on behalf of the University of Northern Iowa. This includes digital displays in academic buildings, residence halls, athletics facilities, performing arts venues, administrative offices, and other campus locations where digital screens are used to share information.

What to Focus On

When creating or updating digital signage, prioritize:

• Content that can be understood without relying on audio
• Sufficient color contrast and readable text
• Clear structure and concise messaging
• Display timing that allows adequate time to read content
• Accessible alternatives when signage conveys essential information

Not every item below applies in every situation. Use professional judgment and focus first on signage that communicates essential, time-sensitive, or public-facing information.

Accessibility Checklist

Use the checklist below when creating, publishing, or reviewing digital signage content. Not all items will apply in every situation.

Visual Design and Readability

• Ensure text contrast is sufficient to be readable in the physical environment where the display is located; for reference WCAG minimum contrast ratios (4.5:1 for normal text) provide a useful baseline
• Use large, legible fonts appropriate for viewing distance
• Avoid relying on color alone to convey meaning
• Avoid flashing or rapidly moving content that may cause distraction or physical reactions
• Keep messaging concise and easy to scan

Timing and Motion

• Ensure content remains on screen long enough to be read comfortably; as a general practice, allow at least 5 to 7 seconds per slide, with additional time for longer text
• Avoid auto-advancing content too quickly
• Limit excessive animation or motion that interferes with readability

Audio and Multimedia

• Do not rely solely on audio to convey essential information
• If audio is used, ensure key information is also available visually
• Provide accessible alternatives for important video content displayed on signage

Essential Information

• Ensure emergency messages, critical announcements, or required information are available through multiple communication channels
• When signage conveys essential information, provide an accessible alternative such as a website, email notice, or printed format

Operational Practices

• Review signage templates for color contrast and readability before broad deployment
• Test sample content for visibility and clarity at typical viewing distance
• Coordinate with campus communications and emergency management teams to ensure accessible messaging practices

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Using small fonts that cannot be read from typical viewing distance
• Relying on color alone to signal urgency or importance
• Displaying content too briefly to be read
• Assuming digital signage is exempt from accessibility expectations
• Posting essential information on signage without providing an alternative format