Accessible Infographics – a new standard for inclusivity in visual communication

Project Description

Accessible infographics can be the difference between someone understanding essential information or getting the digital door smacked in their face.

TLDR; Many sites, but particularly webshops rely heavily on infographics to present vital information that helps buyers make confident and informed decisions. These visuals simplify complex details like product features and benefits, pricing breakdowns, and usage instructions.

For example, webshops may use infographics to highlight dimensions, weight, materials, or performance metrics such as battery life or durability. Apparel stores often include sizing charts and international size conversions, while furniture retailers showcase dimensions to help customers visualize fitting products into their spaces.

Infographics also communicate critical health and safety information, such as allergy warnings, safety precautions for children or pets, or maintenance tips for long-term use. Webshops offering sustainable products use infographics to display eco-certifications, carbon footprint reductions, and ethical production standards. Other uses include detailed shipping and delivery timelines, return policies with step-by-step instructions, and visual comparisons between products or competitors. However, many of these infographics remain inaccessible to people with disabilities, excluding a significant audience.

At this hackathon, we’re creating a WordPress plugin that provides accessible infographics. Think screen-reader-friendly charts, tactile graphics support, and interactive elements that work seamlessly for all users.

An accessible infographic plugin for WordPress can transform these visuals into universally accessible tools, empowering webshops to deliver this essential information inclusively. This not only improves the shopping experience but also increases trust, engagement, and conversions for WooCommerce businesses.

For the backend development, you don’t need to be an accessibility expert, but for the frontend knowledge of creating accessible user interfaces (following WCAG guidelines) is important. More information further down.

Together, we can set a new standard for inclusivity in visual communication! essential.

Target Audience

WordPress plugin developers:

• Experience in developing and customizing WordPress plugins
• Ability to connect backend functionality with frontend element

Frontend developers:

• Expertise in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Knowledge of creating accessible user interfaces (following WCAG guidelines).
• Skills to develop interactive and dynamic visualizations.
• Focus on performance and usability for data-heavy graphics.

Accessibility Testing:

• experienced tester, to test infographics for accessibility compliance.

Hackathon Goals

Our Minimal Viable Product (MVP) will be a framework to be used by WordPress core and Plugins  enabling developers and users to create 1–2 accessible infographic types, such as:

• Bar or column charts readable by assistive technologies (AT).
• Line or curve graphs.

Be a Part of the Solution, join our team!

This isn’t just another plugin; it’s a statement. Join us at the 2025 CloudFest Hackathon to create a tool that empowers individuals and showcases the WordPress community’s commitment to inclusivity.