Background

Methodology

This content of this site is based on research into relevant sources on legibility and readability. These sources were chosen on the basis of criteria including clarity of recommendations, inclusion of specific parameters and figures, information on accessibility and trustworthiness, i.e., reliability and scientific robustness. 16 variables were sorted, analysed and evaluated in various stages according to character-, text-, contrast-, colour-, image- and material-related factors.

In most cases, German standard DIN 1450 proved the most comprehensive source of information. In addition to the details provided here, it also defines additional legibility criteria, and we recommend it as further reading. Alongside the primary sources, specialist typographical literature also provided a significant amount of data. However, legibility research continues to be a somewhat haphazard affair carried out either by scientists with no knowledge of typography or by designers who have acquired their skills in an unscientific manner.¹ The recommendations brought together here reflect the current state of knowledge, which requires further research and refinement.

Using test layouts, the findings of the source research were evaluated in a series of multi-stage workshops and surveys by a total of 34 visually impaired people and ophthalmology patients. In view of the many and varied symptoms of eye disease, the complexity of the issue and the small number of participants, the assessments carried out make no claim to scientific validity. However, the design parameters defined at the end of the process achieved very high approval rates despite the disparate needs of those involved and can therefore be regarded as providing a workable standard for the time being.