AccessAbility
This is a practical guide for creating accessible graphic design, including for the web and print. This resource brings together clear principles, examples, and tools to make accessibility part of our everyday work. Together, we can design a world which is more open, thoughtful and forward-looking.
Revised and updated in 2025
This accessibility guide is produced by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD), a non-profit, professional Association representing over 4,700 Members across Canada.
Who is this guide for?
This AccessAbility online guide is meant for anyone involved in the process of designing communication materials. It is written and created for a broad group of , including professional designers, design clients, educators, students and anyone who cares about ensuring that everyone has access to information. Accessible design is for everyone.
Designing for accessibility means ensuring that the largest possible number of people can access the same information. This inclusive approach benefits individuals with disabilities, parents, grandparents, and those in diverse circumstances. Ultimately, it also serves us and our future selves, as we will all experience unexpected changes over time.
Featured Pages
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Fundamentals
Accessibility is not an add-on. Accessible design is most effective when it is a core consideration from the beginning of a project.
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Web accessibility
The web is founded on access and inclusivity, aiming to empower global connection and participation regardless of individual circumstances.
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About
Based on the AccessAbility handbook, this site seeks to make RGD's accessibility recommendations, well, accessible to everyone.
About the RGD
Through the RGD, Canadian designers exchange ideas, educate and inspire, set professional standards and build a strong, supportive community dedicated to advocating for the vallue of design.
Featured case study
SickKids
The SickKids Patient Support Centre’s wayfinding system includes accessibility features like tactile maps, braille, pictograms and high-contrast signs.
Featured resources
Websites
In addition to this site, below is an index of valuable online resources to learn more about design and accessibility.
Accessibility Tools
From testing websites for colour contrast to inspecting code for assistive technologies, we have a list for you.
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