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Tactile Graphics Workflow

Creating and managing tactile graphics for blind and low-vision students.

Workflow Overview

graph TD
    A[Source Material] --> B[Assessment]
    B --> C[Design]
    C --> D[Production]
    D --> E[QA]
    E --> F[Delivery]

Detailed Steps

1. Assessment

  • Purpose: Determine tactile graphics requirements
  • Tasks:
  • Review source images/diagrams
  • Consult with student/teacher
  • Determine complexity level
  • Considerations:
  • Student's tactile literacy
  • Educational context
  • Available production methods

2. Design

  • Purpose: Create tactile-ready design
  • Tasks:
  • Simplify complex images
  • Add braille labels
  • Define textures and layers

3. Production

  • Purpose: Create physical tactile graphic
  • Methods:
  • Thermoform
  • Embossing
  • Hand-tooled
  • 3D printed

4. Quality Assurance

  • Purpose: Verify accuracy and usability
  • Tasks:
  • Tactile review
  • Student testing
  • Durability check

5. Delivery

  • Purpose: Send to student
  • Tasks:
  • Package with braille key
  • Include instructions
  • Update inventory

Best Practices

  • Simplify complex images to essential elements
  • Use consistent textures to represent different concepts
  • Include braille labels for all important features
  • Test with students before final production
  • Document design decisions for future reference