14 point is generally regarded as being too large for standard documentation. 12 point would be the absolute minimum with the option of producing larger copies on request. With regard to fonts, many of the san serif fonts should be readable by someone with a vision impairment as it is the serifs which cause the problem. However, as there are probably as many different eye conditions as there are fonts, it is always tricky to determine which would be the most widely accepted. Again, if someone has problems with the font you choose, then consult with the individual and produce it in the most appropriate format to suit that individual. As you say, Arial is the RNIB;s preferred font, but others such as Univers, Gill Sans and Helvetica are equally as good. Obviously this poses problems if one is talking about very large documents. However, someone somewhere has produced that document on a PC and it can be easily reformatted or provided as an electronic format. JG. John Gregory Access Officer -----Original Message----- From: Haeussler Elvira [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: 20 July 2004 11:57 To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Standard font type and size Hello all, I have recently run across a problem when asked to give advice on an accessible font for the College to use in all its materials . The aim was to find a font type and size that would be acceptable to as many people as possible, including people with various disabilities. I suggested using Arial, as that is the font suggested as a standard by the RNIB. However, I have since been contacted by someone working with people with poor literacy, who told me that some of the punctuation in Arial was difficult to read for people with literacy needs, and that their suggested font was Century Gothic, which in turn is difficult for people with poor sight to read. I am getting the impression that different groups suggest a different font style and size to use as a standard. Does anyone know of a font that would be suitable for as many different people as possible? Also, I know that the RNIB suggest using 14 point print as a standard. however, I have had many complaints from colleagues because it looks too big on a page and takes up too much room. Does anyone know what size is best used as a standard? I'd be interested in your comments. Regards Elvira Haeussler WONDER 2 Project Manager Dewsbury College Halifax Road Dewsbury WF13 2AS Tel: 01924 465 916 E-mail: [log in to unmask] ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ The information transmitted in this email is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete this e-mail immediately. The contents of this e-mail must not be disclosed or copied without the sender's consent. Unencrypted electronic mail is not secure, may not be authentic and may be susceptible to data corruption, interception, unauthorised amendment or viruses or the consequences thereof. This email and any attachments are opened at your own risk. If you have any doubts as to the contents please contact the sender.Statements and opinions expressed in this e-mail may not necessarily represent those of Dewsbury College. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++++++++++++ ________________________________________________________________________ This e-mail has been scanned for all viruses by Star Internet. The service is powered by MessageLabs. For more information on a proactive anti-virus service working around the clock, around the globe, visit: http://www.star.net.uk ________________________________________________________________________ This e-mail is confidential and may contain legally privileged information. You should not disclose its contents to any other person. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately. Whilst the Council has taken every reasonable precaution to minimise the risk of computer software viruses, it cannot accept liability for any damage which you may sustain as a result of such viruses. You should carry out your own virus checks before opening the e-mail (and/or any attachments). Unless expressly stated otherwise, the contents of this e-mail represent only the views of the sender and do not impose any legal obligation upon the Council or commit the Council to any course of action. ________________________________________________________________________ This e-mail has been scanned for all viruses by Star Internet. The service is powered by MessageLabs. For more information on a proactive anti-virus service working around the clock, around the globe, visit: http://www.star.net.uk ________________________________________________________________________