Picture of Noelle Hargis-Milford

Noelle

Hargis-Milford

Visual Design Specialist

Meet Noelle, your next step to great design!

Noelle has been a graphic designer since before she even knew what it meant, discovering a passion for creating and designing presentations during her high school years. After graduating from Texas A&M University with her BA in Maritime Studies, she became certified as an Adobe Visual Design Specialist and continued on into freelance art and design. Today, Noelle specializes in texture and color, and using new combinations of the two to reach all parts of the community, especially those with various disabilities.

Outside of graphic design, Noelle loves reading, writing her own stories, and training with her service dog Pepper.

To check out more of Noelle's work, click here. If you are interested in what services she can provide and what she can bring to your company, click here.

Resume


University of Texas Medical Branch
Student Life Program Specialist
September 2021 – Current

Oni-Con: Annual Three-Day Convention
Vendor Director
October 2019 – Current
Collaborated with a dynamic team to streamline vendor registration, payment, check-in, and check-out processes. Provided leadership by effectively directing volunteers and staff, assigning tasks based on their strengths and interests. Additionally, crafted comprehensive maps and layouts for the vendor space.

IKKiCON: Annual Three-Day Convention
Assistant Registration Director
January 2017 – Current
Worked with a team to develop an efficient crowd management event check-in process and ticketing while energetically organizing and receiving transactions. Directed volunteers and staff, delegating tasks tailored to their strengths and interests.

Houston Community College Southwest
Laboratory Assistant II
January 2017 – June 2018
Oversee training, tutoring, and one-on-one mentoring for students. Maintain office and lab equipment while ensuring the proper training of any equipment operators. Organize official documents while maintaining confidentiality. Proctor in-person exams and online exams using eLearning systems. Design graphics for documentation and presentations for events presented by the department.

Moody Gardens/Colonel Paddlewheel
Photographer/Cashier
February 2016 – January 2018
Worked with a small team that relied on intercommunications and interactions with the public. Initiated a high degree of originality and creativity to enhance the products resulting in greater customer satisfaction and revenue for the company. Worked to make quality experience for customers.

Texas A&M University at Galveston
Student Administrative Assistant
June 2011 – May 2015
Assist professors with filing and organizing official documentation while maintaining confidentiality. Maintained office equipment and ensuring the proper system usage. Assist in proctoring in-person exams. Design graphics for documentation and presentations for events presented by the department. Maintained sound auditing principals and readied all documents for audit.

Sea Camp at Texas A&M University at Galveston: Summer Camp
Photography Camp Volunteer Assistant
June 2009 – August 2014
Tutored campers and councilors to increase the efficiently of products. Supported technology for photography sessions. Lead tutorials for work expectation and delivery. Submitted photography for print, and directed mounting and framing requirements for showroom.

FAQ


What will be the cost of my project?
When it comes to project requirements, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every project is unique and requires a customized approach. The client's specific needs, goals, and budgetary constraints must be taken into consideration when planning and executing a project. For instance, a client with limited financial resources may require a more cost-effective solution that can be implemented in stages, whereas a client with a larger budget may prefer a more comprehensive and expedited approach. In summary, the success of a project largely depends on understanding the client's wants and needs and developing a tailored plan that meets their specific requirements while staying within their budgetary constraints.

Do you require a deposit? If so, could you explain the reason behind it?
Yes, I have a policy of requesting a 50% deposit upfront from clients for my services. This deposit is necessary to establish a professional working relationship with clients and protect our time and efforts. By doing so, I ensure that clients are genuinely interested in my services and willing to commit to the project. Additionally, this deposit helps to ensure a smoother collaboration between the client and me, as it sets clear expectations and allows for a more efficient workflow.

Can you provide free design services?
Regrettably, I am unable to undertake pro bono design projects at this time. However, I have engaged in design collaborations with organizations on a barter basis, exchanging services for products or services. Such arrangements are infrequent and typically occur when the organization holds significant personal significance for me.

What software and tools are you most proficient in for graphic design?
As a graphic designer and artist, I possess a diverse set of skills and use a wide range of design tools depending on the specific requirements of each project. I am proficient in many design programs, but I do have my favorites that I tend to use most often. Adobe's Creative Cloud suite, which includes popular software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat Professional, and InDesign, is often my go-to choice for a majority of my projects. These programs allow me to create and edit high-quality graphics, illustrations, and layouts, and provide me with a range of powerful tools and features that enable me to bring my creative vision to life.

Why are you in a wheelchair?
To begin with, I would advise against posing this question to people in general, as it can be perceived as insensitive. However, while not necessarily relevant to my work, I'm always happy to share my knowledge and experiences.
I use a wheelchair due to a condition I have called Cerebral Palsy, which is a neurological disorder that affects movement, coordination, and posture. Due to this and other factors, a wheelchair has become an essential tool for me to navigate through my daily life with greater independence and ease.

Contact


Portfolio


PRIVATE CLIENT - HOSPITAL - HOUSTON, TX
FY23 ANNUAL REPORT (PRINTED BOOKLET)

Type Logo for Ni Deep Designs

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY GALVESTON
2021/2022 DIVERSITY PLAN ACCOUNTABILITY POSTER (DIGITAL AND PRINTED PRESENTATION)

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY GALVESTON
THE SEA AGGIE DIVERSITY COMPASS: RESOURCE GUIDE (PRINTED BOOKLET)

Melissa Noriega State Representative
Topics Graphics for website

TEKKAMI
Business Card

ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
LARGE FLYERS AND SOCIAL MEDIA

ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON
Posters

JUDGE ERIC WILLIAM CARTER
EWC Banners, Signs, and wrap graphics

JUDGE ERIC WILLIAM CARTER
EWC GRAPHIC LOGO COLOR EXPLORATION

private clients designs
custom limited edition leggings

Picture of Noelle Hargis-Milford's Piece "The Gardens" Part of a Private Collection

private clients designs
"The Gardens" Large Format Print

Texas A&M University
Failed/Fragile*States Presentation - 20 minutes

private clients designs
"Peace: A Call" DIgital Pattern and Shirt


Blog: Digging Deep



Blog: Digging Deep


The Time Might Be Now: The Indicators You Should Hire a Graphic Designer

The landscape of business is more dynamic than ever, and the role of graphic design is a pivotal part of shaping a company’s visual identity and the brand’s visual narrative. Determining the right time to bring a graphic designer on board can feel like a daunting task, but rest assured if you get a true professional to assist you, it can be an absolute game-changer! If you feel like you are a business striving for a competitive edge, bring in a designer early, and often.

But what are the signs? When is it time?

Usually, the indicators that a graphic designer is needed, manifest in a way business owners often don’t notice, but clients do. Inconsistent branding is probably the most prevalent problem. Companies have five names, eight vastly different logos, and no consistent color scheme. Other things could be outdated visuals and worse, a lack of professional appeal.

New or old, you should want your business to exude professionalism. Sure, you may be a mom-and-pop shop that has been on the same corner for forty years and could use a fresh coat of paint, but the service you provide should be provided professionally: with competence, integrity, and respect.

No matter your business you should have the basics when it comes to marketing materials: business cards, flyers, or trifolds, and nowadays some form of internet presence is a must! Internet presence can be a website, a Facebook page, an Instagram account, or an email newsletter; something that allows people to see your business in this modern time.

When your brand’s visual elements lack cohesion or flow, it’s time to consider the expertise of a graphic designer. Establishing a strong and cohesive visual identity ensures that your brand communicates effectively with your evolving and (hopefully) growing audience, fostering a strong and positive perception among your clients.

While graphic design benefits all businesses, certain industries like fashion, hospitality, and technology prioritize visual aesthetics to captivate their audiences. Recognizing your industry-specific importance of the visual element and of graphic design helps you better understand what you should consider implementing in to meet your industry and business goals.

Just look at the covers of different industry magazines such as Vogue (fashion magazine), Time (current events magazine), and WIRED (technology magazine). Someone with more than an “artist's eye” is designing them.

Don’t mistake my statement as flack, I find the “artist eye” to be a critical part of my workflow, however many of the most successful and most influential designers do not have it, hone it, or use it. They learned how to design on an advanced technical level and stirred their creativity into it.

An internet search can highlight the impact of graphic design, good and bad. If you hire a designer solely because “they were super cheap,” you will be lucky if you get more than what you pay for. Businesses that have worked with a designer in a professional capacity have reported outcomes such as increased customer engagement and an enhanced brand perception after incorporating graphic design expertise into their strategy.

I highly recommend looking for a designer who can help you understand the design process and wants you to be a part of the design process. Many, like myself, offer free or reduced-cost initial consultations, though not all. Sometimes these consultations can help you and the designer be able to determine if you are a good match for each other.

In conclusion, if you are ready for a standout visual identity in today's dynamic business scene, considers these tips. Watch for signs like inconsistent branding–it's key. Invest in a graphic designer who values collaboration; it's a game-changer! Make sure the designer knows the overall goals–elevating engagement and brand perception for lasting success at least. You have worked hard to run your business, and you deserve that visual edge!

What are some of the hesitancies you can think of that may make someone wait to hire a designer, or never hire one at all?


#GraphicDesign | #VisualIdentity | #BrandingTips | #BusinessStrategy | #Blog | #ProfessionalDesign | #MarketingMaterials | #DesignProcess | #BrandPerception


Blog: Digging Deep


The Allure of Red: Exploring the Passionate Hue

Red.Did you know red is the the color known to evokes strong emotions. It has an undeniable royal place in the world of design. It often symbolizing passion, energy, and love. It commands attention and can leave a lasting impression. In design particularly, incorporating red (strategically) can elevate a composition by adding vitality and warmth.The psychological impact of red is fascinating! Red is known to do everything from simulating creativity to creating a sense of urgency, and it even elevates the heart rate. Whether used as an accent or as the dominant color, red demands notice. It is often considered the most contradictory of colors. We will touch in on why here in a few.Most people are aware of red being prevalent in fast food branding. This is because, it often signifies boldness and confidence, making a brand stand out in a crowded market. You would think with all that red, logos would start to all look the same, but just as there are hundreds of different fast food establishments, there are hundreds of variations of red. From deep, rich shades to vibrant, fiery tones, red offers a spectrum of color possibilities.But it’s not all rainbows and butterflies for red. When you dig in to learn the cultural associations and significance of red, it can be dizzying. In the Chinese culture, red symbolizes luck, prosperity, loyalty, and honor. In Central Africa, Ndembu warriors rub themselves with red paint during celebrations because for them, red is a symbol of life and health. N other places, such as parts of the Middle East, it may signify warning or danger. And to add to that, often society has a strong mix of both positive and negative when utilizing the color red. As designers, we navigate these nuances regularly so our clients can to convey their intended messages effectively.To sum it up, red's impactful role in design is indisputable, stirring emotions and capturing attention. Its psychological influence adds a layer of intrigue. Navigating cultural subtleties becomes essential for designers and their clients to convey messages meaningfully. Red has transcended from mere color and emerges as a potent instrument for crafting a varied narrative across design and cultural landscapes.What are some things that are red that you tend to notice most? And why is it STOP signs and stop lights? Haha! Just kidding!What are things that are red that you tend to notice the most?


#ColorPsychology | #DesignImpact | #CulturalAssociations | #EmotionalDesign | #RedInBranding | #Blog | #CreativeExpression | #DesignNarratives


Blog: Digging Deep


Beyond Aesthetics: The Strategic Significance of Stock in Design

When I am working with a client, I often get asked the question, “Why are there additional costs for stock images and/or typefaces for commercial use? What does that—commercial use—even mean?”Though this is explained to the client during the proposal process, I do not expect them to remember every finite detail I have explained to them, so I explain it again. Often, the second explanation is much more detailed, better explaining the rationale behind those particular charges and the essential value they bring to the project.But what DO they bring?For one, they bring quality and uniqueness to a project. When we designers invest in high-quality stock images and/or high-quality typefaces it is for one reason; they elevate the visual appeal of the project. Premium assets ensure uniqueness. It can be very embarrassing to discover your project looking exactly like someone else’s project simply because you didn’t want to invest in premium assets. As designers, part of our job is to research beyond a surface-level Google search, to make sure any assets are contributing to the overall professional aesthetic of the project and making sure it is setting your work apart from the often easily located generic alternatives.Stock images and typefaces often come with licensing fees and copyright considerations. Most free stock image sites require specific attribution setups, and the ones that don’t, are often highly generic. On top of that, some that are “free with attribution” may not be free for commercial use—that being “any activity in which you use a product or service for promotional, marketing, or advertising of a service, person, or business with the intent of financial gain.”Things can get confusing and sometimes legally problematic if you hire someone who doesn’t have a knowledge of the legality of resources. Guaranteeing that your project complies with intellectual property laws and investing in the safeguards that can save your work and prevent legal complications is an important part of what we do.I will not lie; I have access to extensive libraries of stock images and typefaces in order to provide my clients with a diverse range of options to suit their different styles and preferences. And that selection doesn’t come cheaply. Often as designers, we pay monthly fees to make sure we can curate the selections offered to our clients and to allow for customization that ensures the project aligns perfectly with our client’s brand identity. Utilizing professional stock images and typefaces allows us to focus on the creative aspects of the project without spending excessive amounts of time creating or searching for assets. This efficiency translates to a quicker turnaround time for the client’s deliverables.As designers, we bring expertise to the table when it comes to choosing stock images and typefaces. Our knowledge of design principles, color theory, and typography ensures that the selected elements harmonize seamlessly, contributing to visual cohesion and an aesthetically pleasing end result.Does this mean all my clients elect to take my advice and use stock images? Absolutely not, and I don’t force them to. If I give them my expert advice and they say “pass,” then I do the absolute best I can with what I have to work with. Sure, I get frustrated with the time I have to spend double, triple, and quadruple checking that all assets are properly documented, legally approved, and appropriate, and by how much the cost of my time racks up (all but negating the savings), but the main goal is a happy client. If that makes the client happy, then that is that!Wrapping this up; the additional charges for stock images and typefaces in a designer’s fee are there as part of the strategic investments made in quality, legality, variety, efficiency, and expertise. Choosing not to use stock items is not necessarily going to save you money, and can cost you more in the end, depending on the project you are working on. By recognizing the value these assets bring, clients can appreciate the meticulous efforts behind crafting visually compelling projects that stand out in a competitive industry.What are some of the reasons you would elect not to use stock items?


#DesignAssets | #CreativeInvestment | #VisualAppeal | #Blog | #DesignLegality | #UniqueProjects | #ProfessionalAesthetics |
#CreativeEfficiency


Blog: Digging Deep


Orange Essence: Adding Warmth and Energy to Your Design Palette

Let’s talk about orange.The color, not the fruit, though we can talk about the fruit later. Right now, close your eyes for ten seconds and think “Orange.” What is the first thing you think of? Aside from the fruit the other common answer is fire. Because of that association orange is considered a vibrant and warm color.It brings a burst of energy and positivity to design. The hue combines the boldness of red with the brightness of yellow, creating a dynamic and uplifting presence.In design, orange is often associated with enthusiasm, creativity, adventure, and a feeling of warmth. In history, orange has been used as a paint in Ancient Egyptian tombs and even as ink and watercolor in pieces such as “Arrival of a Portuguese Ship” painted in the 1600s.Though getting orange could be achieved by mixing yellow ochre and red ochre pigments, during the time of the Roman Empire the mineral orpiment became a popular mineral to make orange pigment from. It wasn’t until much later the world learned that orpiment contains arsenic.Incorporating orange elements can evoke a sense of warmth (if that isn’t clear already) and playfulness in a design, making it an excellent choice for brands aiming to convey friendliness, approachability, and safety.Have you ever heard of safety orange? Orange is the color most easily seen in dim light or against the water, making it, a perfect color for safety. After a significant amount of science, safety orange was created. This particular shade has been used to distinguish life rafts, lifeboats, road cones, safety-related equipment (such as the black box on a commercial airline), and safety clothes.The color's versatility shines in various design applications. From subtle accents to dominant backgrounds, orange adapts to different contexts with ease. It is particularly effective in designs related to food, travel, and lifestyle, where it can stimulate appetite and evoke a sense of excitement.Understanding the cultural and psychological implications of orange is key to successful implementation. In some cultures, such as the Buddhist culture, orange symbolizes spirituality, purity, good fortune. In others, it represents energy and change.Whether used in logos, packaging, or digital interfaces, orange has the power to capture attention and create a memorable visual impact. Embrace the essence of orange in your design palette to infuse warmth, energy, and a touch of zest into your visual creations.Speaking of orange, we have to talk about the fruit. It wouldn't be right of me to not answer the age-old question of whether the color came first or the fruit. Drum roll, please…. In name, the fruit came first. The word orange entered the English language in the 14th century, but it wasn't used as the name for the color until around 200 years later. Before that, they just went with the logical name of yellow-red.But want about the word for orange in Spanish? Ah, you curious soul! The fruit’s name, as well as the color, has its origin in the Sanskrit word “naranga.” The fruit was discovered by the Arabs during the Muslim conquest of the Indian sub-continent and the word and fruit were later introduced in Spain by the Moors. Hence, the current Spanish word for orange: naranja.Okay, that’s enough neeeeerd out of me today. In reflection, orange's allure transcends mere color or taste. It symbolizes adventure and resilience, from ancient rituals to modern safety measures. Let its warmth envelop you, igniting passion and illuminating the path ahead.How does the color orange make you feel or what associations does it evoke for you?


#OrangeColor | #DesignInspiration | #CreativeEnergy
#VisualImpact | #CulturalSymbolism | #SafetyOrange
#ColorTheory | #DesignPalette


Blog: Digging Deep


Designed for Progress: Elevating Design Skills in an Ever-Changing Environment

I am pretty sure we can all agree that technology is evolving faster than we can blink. Design is a dynamic realm to work in, to say the least, and a commitment to continuous learning is not merely a virtue but a necessity. It requires a dedication to staying informed about the latest design trends, tools, and technologies.Technological advancements are happening at such a rapid pace that it can be difficult to stay well informed on the latest tool, software, or color book. By keeping an eye on emerging design trends, we not only have the opportunity to refine our creative instincts but also align our work with the ever-evolving tastes of our audiences. It can feel overwhelming at times, but I have found that this approach ensures that my designs remain relevant and captivating in an in the wildly varied and always changing design market.Other things that I do to make sure I am on top of my game is embrace new tools and technologies. And it is rough. It is more than just a matter of staying current; it’s a strategic move. It enhances my creative capabilities and assists in streamlining my workflow.From the integration of cutting-edge software to the exploration of unique and innovative design techniques, each leap and spirt of advancement allows us as designers to push the boundaries of what we can do creatively.I will admit, the pursuit of skill enhancement is not solely about adapting to external changes. It’s a matter of being able to cultivate a mindset of perpetual growth and curiosity within our fields. In an industry where adaptability Isa predominant skill that must be flexed, our commitment to continuous learning positions us at the forefront of innovation.As designers, we don’t merely respond to trends; we shape them. By honing our skills and embrace learning the latest tools, we not only maintain an edge over the competition, but also contribute to the vibrant tapestry of design and its evolution.My journey of learning is a testament to my dedication to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the clients I serve and the ever-discerning design enthusiasts.The dynamic world of design demands continuous learning and adaptability. Embracing emerging trends and new tools, designers become pioneers, shaping the future of their craft. Our commitment ensures we exceed expectations, leaving a lasting mark on the ever-changing design landscape.


#DesignEvolution | #ContinuousLearning | #CreativeInnovation
#FutureOfDesign | #EmbraceChange | #DynamicDesign
#ShapeTheFuture | #CreativeGrowth | #DesignTrends


Blog: Digging Deep


Designs and Colors of Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a celebration held on November 1st and 2nd. This holiday is celebrated as a time when families honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away. But this is no funeral, the atmospheres of these events are festive and fun, yet respectful.As a designer, I find some of the most fascinating elements of this celebration to be its use of color and symbolism. There is so much that can be said about each of the hundreds of symbols and colors used, but alas, I will restrain myself and pick my favorites.But what is it that draws me in? Vibrant hues, meaningful motifs, and carefully chosen decorations create a visual story in a language that represents the delicate connection between life and death.But is there a commonality among all the color and flourish? Why yes, there is. Meet the marigold. I have heard different names for it, but traditionally the Aztec word cempasúchil is used to describe it in this context. Though I have also heard it called caléndula. Yet, no matter what you call it, this flower has bright orange and yellow petals, which are essential for guiding spirits back to the world of the living. The marigold's intense colors are said to mimic the brightness of the sun, which provides warmth and life. As a result, marigolds are used extensively in altars décor and along paths, welcoming the souls of the deceased. Orange, yellow, and gold tones, which dominate these displays, symbolize life and energy, ensuring that even in death, the memory of loved ones is kept alive in vivid and joyful ways.There is no way we can miss another important symbol that emerges during this time of year—the monarch butterfly. Every fall, monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico, arriving just in time for the Day of the Dead festivities. This coincidental timing has led many to believe that monarchs represent the returning souls of those who have passed. The patterns of their wings are often depicted on various decorations.Just as the butterflies undertake a long and transformative journey, they are seen as a symbol of the soul’s transition from one world to the next. The sight of a monarch during the Day of the Dead is more than just a natural event; it’s a reminder that the spirits of the departed are there, reconnecting with the living in an ethereal way.But flowers and butterflies are not the only thing that shows life and death. Life and death also manifest in the way colors are used, especially through gradient transitions from warm to cool tones.What do I mean?Well, these gradients can be found in decorations and artwork, where bright oranges and yellows—representing the vibrancy of life—gradually fade into cooler shades like purple and blue, which symbolize the mystery of the afterlife. This transition from warm to cool is a powerful visual metaphor for the passage from life to death.When I asked a friend of mine from Mexico about this, she said “I’m no expert on Dia de los Muertos, but my mama always said that the way the color changes, mean that death is not an abrupt end. She is right, I believe. There is no ‘darkness, the end,’ kind of deal with the soul. No. Instead, it’s a gentle change that is part of the [Life and Death] Cycle. The warm colors of the marigold and the sun symbolize the buzzing energy of life, while the cooler colors evoke peace and the calm of the afterlife.”Together, these elements—the marigold’s fiery colors, the monarch butterfly’s spiritual symbolism, and the gradient transitions between warm and cool—create a profound story and meaning of the Day of the Dead.I personally find it comforting to have a holiday that is rooted so deeply in love and family. I love that Day of the Dead is far from being just a time of mourning, and instead is a celebration of life and memory. It can be hard for some to imagine death embraced as a continuation, not an ending. But if you ever get to experience the vibrant decorations and amazing and elegant motifs—serving as a bridge between the living and the dead, reminding us that our loved ones are never truly gone, that they remain with us in spirit, celebrated in bright colors and gentle transformations that mirror the cycle of life itself—you may find comfort in the holiday too.The Day of the Dead offers us a profound perspective on life and death, reminding us that the two are not separate but beautifully intertwined. We are reminded that we can do more to honor those who have passed, not with sorrow, but with joy and remembrance. On those nights in November, it is time when the veil between worlds is thin, and the presence of our loved ones can be felt in the warmth of the marigolds, the grace of the butterflies, and even in the gentle transitions of color in the setting sun. Que usted y su familia tengan un bendecido Día de los Muertos. May you and your family have a blessed Day of the Dead.


#DayOfTheDead | #DesignAndCulture | #DesignPerception | #FloralDesign | #Gradients | #MexicanCulture | #SpiritualDesign | #Symbolism | #TraditionalDesign | #VibrantColors


Making Your Business More Accessible: Small Changes with Big Impact

It’s finally fall here in Texas, which means we will have approximately two amazing days of cool weather. On days like that it is outdoors time!I sat down outside to enjoy the cool air and a nice read and instead, I was struck with an overwhelming heat of frustration and anxiety. I had picked out the perfect weekend read, only to hear the ever-dreaded “no speakable content could be found on the screen.” And that led me down a rabbit hole for the rest of the week about access.Main point? It’s 2024, accessibility is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. For people with visual impairments, screen readers are essential tools that allow them to interact with digital content, and yet an app with millions of downloads had no screen reader capability. Maybe I would be less salty about it if it had not been an app specifically created for library books to be read or listened to.Globally, over 2.2 billion people have some form of vision impairment, according to the World Health Organization. About 39 million are blind, and approximately 217 million have moderate to severe vision impairment. So what does that mean? It means, we need to do so much better for the 2.2 billion of us who struggle to see.Ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can access and interact with your content is not only ethical but also smart for business. As a graphic designer, I often see how the smallest of changes can make a huge difference in accessibility. The obvious place to look is layout. From headers to alternative text, these tweaks can transform your website, social media posts, marketing materials, or whatever you happen to be working on, into something everyone can consume.I use a screen reader for longer bodies of text, however for my friend Emily, it is a constant companion, and sadly accessibility is a consistent problem. “I think people don’t understand how screen readers work in terms of accessibility. People know that screen readers read the text out loud, but they [people] don’t know that they [screen readers] also interpret the structure of the contents of a page. If a document doesn’t have properly tagged headers, I can’t navigate it, and without alt text, images are just nothing to me. Kind of ruins the experience.”So, what can you do?I can hear half of you already; You are not an accessibility expert and you don’t have the time to become one, you are running a business.That’s fine but start small. One of the most impactful changes is the proper use of headers. Headers play a crucial role in structuring content, making it easier for everyone to navigate, especially for those using assistive technologies. If you have a website properly tagging headers by hierarchy (H1, H2, H3, etc.) helps screen readers organize the content logically, enabling visually impaired people to understand how your information is grouped on your page. Without differentiating your headers from the rest of your text, you can easily get lost in the sea of text, and so can assistive technology.Cool! You’ve fixed your headers! Everyone can understand everything now!Ha! No. Not quite. What about pictures?Another simple yet powerful change you can make is to use alternative text (alt text) for images. Images enhance your message, but for people who are visually impaired, they can be stumbling points if there is no alternative text. Often people use images to explain or clarify something they are sharing. Alt text provides a space for this to image’s content to be expressed.Alt text a concise description of the image, allowing screen readers to convey the visual content. Whether it's an infographic, a product image, or even a logo, every image should be paired with meaningful alt text. Emily’s partner, Alissa is known among our friend group to be the best at creating alt text. “It started out as a way to help Emily, then my brain turned it into a kind of game. Good alt text doesn’t just describe the image but explains its purpose. Instead of ‘image of a woman,’ you could say, ‘a woman enjoying tea in a cozy café, illustrating the warmth and relaxation of the environment.’ That adds context that enhances everyone’s experience.” It may seem like it will rake forever to add, but once you include accessibility into your workflow, you will flourish!There are so many other topics of accessibility that could and should be addressed, such as color contrast requirements—ensuring there’s enough contrast between text and background colors is essential for readability—using descriptive language instead of generic phrases when including links in your content—instead of saying “click here,” use something like “click here to learn more about our products”—and so much more. It can feel like a never-ending and overwhelming undertaking for someone. As mentioned before, you probably are not an accessibility expert, but you do know someone who is.As graphic designers, We help businesses not only make their materials visually appealing but also accessible to a broader audience. Reviewing documents, websites, media, etc. with accessibility in mind means checking for things like consistent use of fonts, proper hierarchy tagging, ensuring color contrast, and so much more. And the coolest part about what we do is that we can also ensure that your brand’s aesthetic isn’t compromised while adding the accessibility features, keeping your business looking exactly as you like it. So if that is your concern, reach out to a graphic designer and see if they can help!It’s a lot, I know, but I promise by making small, accessible design choices, you’re helping millions of potential customers engage with your business and you are changing the business industry as a whole. The more you use accessibility features, the easier companies will make it to implement them. And if you are worried it’s too much for you to undertake, have a graphic designer get involved in the process. Your work will look great and be inclusive.I’ll leave you with this: Accessibility isn't just about doing what's right—it's about creating a world where everyone can engage, learn, and connect without barriers. As technology continues to evolve, so should our efforts to make digital spaces more inclusive. So, whether you’re starting small by tagging headers or taking bigger steps with alt text and color contrast, or taking a massive leap and hiring a graphic designer to fix your content, every effort counts. By prioritizing accessibility in design, you not only widen your reach but also show that you value everyone’s experience. After all, accessibility is more than a feature; it’s a responsibility we all share in 2024 and beyond.


#A11y | #AccessibilityMatters | #AssistiveTechnology | #ContentForAll | #DigitalAccessibility | #EthicalDesign | #GraphicDesign | #InclusiveBusiness | #InclusiveDesign | #ScreenReader


Services


Annual Report Design: Crafting professional and visually appealing annual reports that highlight your achievements.
Book Design: Creating captivating and visually appealing book layouts that enhance the reading experience.
Booklet Design: Creating engaging booklets that tell your story seamlessly.
Branding: Developing a cohesive brand identity that reflects your values and resonates with your audience.
Brochure Design: Designing engaging brochures that effectively communicate your message and offerings.
Business Card Design: Creating memorable business cards that make a lasting impression.
Banner Design: Making visually striking banners for events, promotions, or online use.
Clothing Graphics: Designing graphics for clothing items, ensuring style and individuality.
Custom Design: Tailoring designs to match your unique vision and style preferences.
Document Accessibility Design: Ensuring your documents are accessible to everyone, prioritizing inclusivity.
Flyer Design: Designing eye-catching flyers that grab attention and convey your message effectively.
Logo Design: Developing unique and memorable logos that represent your brand identity.
Magazine Spreads: Designing layouts that enhance the visual appeal and readability of your magazine.
Presentation Design: Crafting visually compelling presentations that captivate your audience.
Postcard and Mailer Design: Designing eye-catching postcards and mailers that stand out in the mailbox.
Poster Design: Making impactful posters that stand out and leave a lasting impression.
Print Design: Bringing your ideas to life on tangible materials with creativity and precision.
Pattern Design: Creating visually appealing patterns for various applications.
Product Design: Bringing creativity to product visuals for a strong market presence.
Signage Design: Designing visually appealing signage for your business or event.
Trifold Design: Crafting visually appealing trifold designs for various purposes.