Creating Labels for the Visually Impaired: A Step Up In Labelling and Advertising
The world of product labeling has undergone some noticeable changes. Businesses and brand names are doing everything they can to attract their customers, including the use of different textures, experimenting with font styles and sizes, colors, die cuts, traditional styles, and much more. Although, innovators have taken label production to a whole new level. More and more, businesses are not only trying to attract their customers, but they are also aiming to accommodate them as well. One major trend we’ve seen is the production of labels for those who are visually impaired. Businesses are working in their best efforts to ensure that those with these disabilities will be able to learn more about what their products have to offer for everyone. We look at the methods used to help customers who are visually impaired.
The Different Types of Labels
Braille Labels
In several years, there have been many systems made to assist those with visual disabilities. Braille is the oldest amongst these systems. Created in 1829 by Louis Braille, the writing and reading system has helped plenty of people with blindness and related disabilities. Braille has become a requirement in European countries. The U.S. has taken consideration of this and some businesses have slowly adopted the method of braille for product labeling and packaging. Coca-Cola and L’Occitane have been praised for debuting products with Braille label printing.
Braille is a very considerable option if you want your products to reach out to those with visual disabilities. Although, a very small percentage of those who are legally blind know how to read Braille. Implementing Braille is a great option, especially when you incorporate other techniques.
Large and Simple Fonts
Another important thing to keep in mind is that not everyone with a visual disability is blind, meaning that they cannot see at all. In some cases, those with a visual disability may have a minor or major impairment, where it may be difficult for them to read or see clearly.
It is recommended that if you want to assist customers with visual disabilities, you may want to reconsider the font and the size of the text that you are using. You want to use a text size that is big enough for those with a disability to make out and read. You also don’t want to make it too big where it looks unappealing to other customers. Additionally, you may want to choose a font that is simple and not too light. You will want to avoid cursive-like fonts and styles. Extra tips include:
- Avoid all capital letters
- Space out the letters
- Implement a noticeable contrast between the color of the text and the color of the background
Audio Labels
We’re living in a digital age, therefore, more and more companies are working in their best efforts to provide customers with the option of using their phones or electronic devices to better accommodate them.
It’s likely that you’ve scanned a label with your phone camera and it automatically transferred you to a link that contained all the information you needed. That’s exactly how audio labels work. Businesses have the option of including a scannable code that provides audio information or large-print information on a site regarding the product.
A few European countries have taken up this innovation and have been awarded for embedding several minutes of speech output so that their customers learn as much as possible about the product.
Soft-Laminate
Texture plays a rather significant role in labeling. Some customers may prefer a matte texture whereas others may prefer a glossy texture. No matter what the texture is that you aim for in the end, you will want to ensure that your labels have a thin film of laminate, in order to avoid a gloss-like effect. Glossy labels and textures tend to produce a glare, which can make it hard for customers to see, read, or make out what the text is on the label. With a softer method of lamination, your customers will be more inclined to opt and purchase your product.
Create a Label Fit For Every Customer with Labeltech Inc
The professionals at Labeltech are known for making unique and customizable prints, stickers, and labels that are designed to help businesses thrive and promote their products. Whatever your goals are, we can guarantee we can help you meet them. Contact us today to learn more about our label printing options and more.