Whether you are creating apps from scratch, or purchasing apps or kiosks on behalf of Rice, it is essential and required by law that these systems are designed to be fully accessible. This means that Rice apps or kiosks must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the best way to meet this standard is by following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA.
This page provides quick, actionable best practices for creating communications and marketing content. Please also refer to our Digital Accessibility Best Practice guidance.
General considerations when designing or purchasing digital apps and kiosks
Designing systems should incorporate accessibility principles for design as embedded principles rather than tack ons near the end of the process. There are some steps that would apply to any designed or purchased system prior to release to the community.
- Documented accessibility: An ACR/VPAT (formally explains how the system adheres to accessibility standards) plus a live demonstration showing how users with visual, mobility, and other disabilities can complete the app's or kiosk's essential tasks.
- Physical accessibility (if applicable): Facilities review of placement, reach ranges, wheelchair access, and screen visibility.
- Security approval: ISO security review covering device management, patching, data protection, and vendor access.
- Confirmed compatibility: Demonstrated integration with necessary university systems.
- Contractual accountability: Written obligations for fixing accessibility defects, providing security updates, and maintaining the kiosk throughout its expected lifespan.
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Designing or purchasing accessible digital kiosks
Why does accessibility matter for digital kiosks? Ensuring equal access to campus information protects institutions from legal and financial penalties while fostering an inclusive environment for the entire institution.
- Can the user accomplish the original task and perform the same functions as other users?
- Is it an equal or comparable experience?
- Is the task completion time comparable?
To be fully accessible, higher education institutions must prioritize the following in their digital kiosk procurement and deployment. Considerations include location and the built environment, software (the kiosk application), and hardware. Navigation and available input and output methods must both be accessible to all individuals.
Visual readability & adaptations
- Text must meet color contrast standards (at least 4.5:1 for normal text
- Fonts must be clear and non-decorative; text should be legible from a distance; sans-serif fonts are best)
- Content should be written using plain language, so it is easier to understand for everyone
- Interfaces must support users with low vision or color blindness by offering adjustable text sizes, zooming capability, high-contrast modes, and non-glare screens
- Tactile keypads with Braille and audio output (headphone jacks) must be provided for users who are blind
Audio & video
- Audio must include transcripts
- Video must include synchronized captions and transcripts
- Interactive controls on touchscreens and kiosks
- Controls must have accessible reach ranges (generally 15 to 48 inches from the floor)
- Touch targets must meet WCAG target size requirements
- Systems must support screen-reader or voice-controlled navigation
Alternative inputs
- Touchscreens can be prohibitive for some users; therefore, digital signage and kiosks need to prioritize hands-free options like voice recognition or accessible physical interfaces (e.g., trackballs or tactile buttons), as well as having Braille labels.
Physical access
- Kiosks must be positioned with clear floor space (at least 30 × 48 inches) for wheelchair users
- Reach, depth, and height ranges should adhere to ADA standards, placing interactive elements and touchscreens no higher than 48 inches from the ground
Standards
- Digital signage and kiosks must align with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 Level AA). While WCAG standards typically target web pages, they serve as the foundational requirements for digital accessibility and help to ensure screen reader compatibility and logical, keyboard-operable navigation.
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