Page design for visually impaired users

creating high contrast options using external CSS

[limbo]

I have recently adopted a code that allows the user to switch between external CSS'. At first I was using it as a bit of a gimmick for users to interact with a page colour scheme like a 'skins' tool. Then I thought about its possible application for users with visual impairments.

Would the ability to switch between two versions, one 'normal' and one high contrast using CSS be a worthwhile addition? Or is it likely that users have software that enhances the page already such as JAWS and do not need further enhancements. I checked the RNIB website but found little on the subject from a developers Point of view.

This is a topic I am not too familiar with and wondered what experience you here have of designing content for users with a visual impairments or accessibility software

Thanks
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¦ Limbo ¦

[martinibuster]

That sounds like a good idea, in particular for those who are color blind. Highly contrasted rollovers, text, are quite helpful. In general, I try to have high contrast throughout to start with, though.

[limbo]

When I wrote high contrast I should have been more specific. I was referring to white text on black background. I read that this was easier on the eye.

[Nick_W]

It is.

I did a site a while back that does exactly this. There was even a fairly lenghthy thread on the subject at the time as I asked similar question.

I can only tell you that I've had some complimentory feedback and appreciation for the feature and no complaints ;)

Personally, I really like it. It helps alot for me when I just can't deal with the 'blinding' black on white anymore...

Nick

[limbo]

Cheers Nick, that was the positive response I was hoping to hear :)

I figure the application of a different external CSS's is endless. Something I will spend more time developing.

Ta

limbo

[DrOliver]

I did something similar to my website (see profile). You can choose "own settings" and all pixel-measures on font-sizes are switched to ems (could also be percentages or nothing at all).

The very same way you can choose to make a high-contrast version, like black-on-white. Or a special version for the color-blinds? And so son.

Just don't go too far, as too many options might overwhelm users.

[PeterHo]

If you want maximum readability or contrast you should choose yellow background with black text on it, airports for example adopt this. If I remember right it was a list like this with highest readability first:
Background/text
1. Yellow/black
2. White/black
3. Blue/white

I forgot the rest..