Questions
- Why does color contrast matter for accessibility?
- Can I use color alone to communicate information on my webpage?
- How do I make sure text is readable against its background?
- What color contrast ratio do I need to meet?
- What tools can I use to check color contrast?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin website editors and content contributors choosing colors, text, and images for Bowdoin webpages in Cascade CMS.
Resolution
Don't rely on color alone
Some people cannot distinguish certain colors, and others use screen readers that convey no color at all. Never use color as the only way to communicate meaning. If color carries information — for example, marking a required field or a status — also include text, a symbol, or another visual cue.
Use sufficient color contrast
Text needs enough contrast with its background to be readable. Low-contrast combinations, such as light gray text on a white background, are difficult for many people to read.
Target ratios: Aim for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text (roughly 18pt, or 14pt bold, and larger).
Tips in Cascade
When placing text over an image — for example with the featured link content type — choose an image and text color that keep the text easy to read. If the text is hard to read against the image, pick a different image or adjust the text treatment.
Check your colors
Before publishing, verify your color combinations with a contrast checker (see Additional Resources). Enter the foreground (text) and background colors and confirm they meet the target ratios.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources