User`s guide

For text, use the Format Editor to change the font, size, or style. You can add borders, underlining, or
background shading to differentiate text objects from each other.
For charts, use a combination of shading and patterns. You can automatically convert a color chart to
a black and white one using the Chart Expert, or you can select values individually and choose your
own patterns.
D.2.3.2 Using color to convey information
Do not use color as the only identifying characteristic for critical information in a report.
For example, a text object may instruct users to "click the green button" to open a subreport. Users with
limited vision cannot tell which button is green. The button should be recognizable by another defining
characteristic besides its color. For example, you can change the button graphic to a shape that is not
used elsewhere on the report, and instruct users to "click the green arrow button". This solution provides
color information for people who can distinguish colors, and extra information for people who cannot.
Other common situations where color may be used to provide important information include:
• Highlighting
To highlight particular values in a table, do not change only the color of the value. If you highlight
outstanding invoices in red, for example, they may look the same as the paid invoices to someone
with limited vision. In the Highlighting Expert dialog box, change a font characteristic other than
color, such as font style.
• Hyperlinks
Using color as the only method for identifying hyperlinks may also cause problems for color-blind
users. When you print your report in black and white, check the hyperlinks to ensure that they are
still visible.
• Identifying important areas of the report
Do not organize a report by using color as a background or as a separator between different sections
or areas. Instead of using color to identify sections, establish clear and consistent navigation for the
entire report.
D.2.4 Navigation
As with other aspects of accessible design, providing several alternative navigation methods can help
you meet the reporting needs of more people. The W3C recommends including several different
navigation methods. On the other hand, simplicity is critical for intuitive navigation. Section 508
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Creating Accessible Reports