Allow people to customise the display of content in a way that is appropriate for them.
Some people may configure their devices and email clients in a way that allows them to consume digital content comfortably. They may increase the default text size, adjust line lengths and spacing, use custom fonts or enable high or low-contrast colour schemes to make emails easier to read.
Due to the way emails are constructed in code, customised settings applied via operating systems, email clients, webmail clients, and apps may not always be applied to the email. However, emails must be built in a way and tested thoroughly to ensure that, where possible, customised preferences take effect whilst retaining the quality of the email.
While animated GIFs work in most email clients, they can cause problems for people with seizure disabilities such as photosensitive epilepsy and vestibular disorders. Those most affected may choose to disable images in their email to avoid such a scenario. However, if the movement is subtle and well-managed, it is acceptable to use animations to draw attention to important content and add personality and warmth.
Practices
- Allow text to resize: Where possible, provide the ability for all text within emails to be resized (as needed) to allow people to read the content more comfortably. Use a minimum font size of 16px for the body copy to allow for the high-resolution display on retina devices, where fonts can appear smaller.
- Avoid blinking / flashing: Do not use blinking and flashing in animated GIFs unless necessary. If necessary, use a photosensitive epilepsy tool to thoroughly test the animations to avoid causing severe distractions or, in extreme cases, seizures.
- Use subtle animations: Use subtle animations sparingly to draw attention to important messages. Ensure that animations are not continuously distracting by bringing them to a stop after 5 seconds.
- High / low contrast colour schemes: Ensure email content is legible and has sufficient contrast if viewed on a device enabled with high or low colour contrast preferences.