Accessibility is the foundation of our magazine redesign for the Local Government Association.
What is ‘good’ magazine design?
Perhaps it is using an arresting combination of words and pictures. Maybe it is creating page layouts that draw the intended reader in and keep them interested. Or maybe it is having a selection of imagery that delights the eye and tells its own story.
Recently, Man-wai Wong, one of the design team at CPL One, put the final touches to a redesign of first, the magazine read by members of the Local Government Association.
As well as the above qualities, ‘good’ design in this case meant extra emphasis on accessibility features in both the digital version and in print. We needed to ensure that first is appealing and comfortable to read for everyone.
Of course, this should be a given for any magazine redesign, but all too frequently, the integration of accessibility features is an afterthought.
When putting ‘comfort and readability for all’ front and centre of the first redesign, our team used their knowledge of accessible design to implement the following:
- Use black headlines and high-contrast text for body copy, for ease of reading
- Use keylines to clearly separate different stories
- Avoid pictures or graphics that interrupt the flow of text
- Place headlines and associated body copy close together, for ease of navigation
- Place captions beneath or to the side of pictures – never over the image
- Ensure clear signposting of sections
- Create consistent layout templates from issue to issue, for familiarity
- Add QR codes to encourage readers online, for an alternative reading option.
Karen Thornton, editor of first, said: “The CPL One team developed a design that champions a fresh, vibrant new look, while retaining the essence and familiarity of the existing brand. We can’t wait to see it launched and get readers’ reaction.”
The new-look first will be unveiled soon (watch out for pics of the finished product on our social media channels), and we are very proud to be continuing our long-standing partnership with the LGA, having retained the contract after a competitive re-pitch earlier this year.
